There are so many reasons to visit Puglia; the white sandy beaches, striking Baroque architecture, beautiful food and the sun of course. And then there's the trulli - these magical, conical houses that look like they've sprung up from the pages of a J.R.R. Tolkien book.

Traditional dry stone huts, these trulli were originally home to the peasant families of the area. Today, they are luxury homes - and you can stay in one! Take Trulli Le Mandorle. This 250-year-old elegantly restored villa, set in 5 acres of peaceful countryside scattered with olive groves and fruit trees, is special indeed.

The cosy living and kitchen/dining areas are cleverly incorporated into the arched recesses of the building, while two charming bedrooms (one double and one twin/double) are designed for ultimate comfort. It's almost impossible to pull yourself away from this magical little property, until...

...you step outside into the Mediterranean gardens to pick fresh fruit from the bountiful orchards for an al fresco breakfast. Sitting outside, not only can you enjoy your immediate countryside surroundings, there are sweeping views of distant villages in the hills, and a gorgeous new split-depth saltwater pool that adults and kids alike will adore. Here the whole family can enjoy splashing about in the utmost peace, and if you're a couple on honeymoon, you'd be hard pushed to find anywhere quite so romantic.

Once you've had your refreshing dip, try out the hot & cold water shower that's under a 150-year-old ancient olive tree in the garden. Now, there's an experience you won't forget.

All that's left to do is explore the area. Just five miles from the whitewashed town of Ostuni and Martina Franca, and 20 km from the pristine sandy beaches of Villanova, you're spoilt for choice. And if you're not eating out in one of the rustic trattorias or Michelin star restaurants, don't forget to pick up some of the local pasta to make back at the trullo. It's 'orecchiette' and it means 'little ears.' And it's a little treat, just like Trulli le Mandole.

Take a beautiful 15-minute walk through olive groves from Trulli Le Mandorle to reach the quaint little village of Pascarosa. Enjoy the local amenities and authentic restaurants. Trulli Le Mandorle is also only 20-minutes drive from the white-washed city of Ostuni, with its excellent restaurants - including four Michelin Star ones - stylish bars, rustic trattorias, and striking medieval buildings, including a magnificent central cathedral, you'll spend many a day ambling around its narrow streets.

And, with the picture postcard towns of Alberobello (unesco World Heritage site for its vast number of trulli), Locorotondo and Martina Franca, with its Baroque architecture, also close-by, you'll never be short of places to visit.

Travelling with family? The coast is just 30 minutes away. Emerald-coloured sea, sandy coves and inviting seafront restaurants will have you wondering where the day has gone, as you head back to your magical holiday home for a cosy welcome back.

Accommodation