Forming the heel of Italy's boot is Puglia – clad with hill towns, centuries old farmland, iridescent coastline and topaz-hued waters. The vibrant port of Bari (Puglia's capital) throngs with university students; the town of Lecce is rich with baroque architecture (resulting in the area being dubbed the Florence of the South) and Alberobello, brimming with cone-shaped rooves, invites endless wandering. 

Prepare to spend seven nights in the glorious town of Salento, home to the sensational seaside gems of Gallipoli and Otranto – real must-sees if you’re fortunate enough to visit the “boot" of the bel paese. 

Nestled just 800 metres from the historic centre of Otranto is your hotel, the Basiliani Resort and Spa. It’s also within spitting distance to the cathedral and medieval castle, making it the perfect springboard for historical sightseeing. 

The hotel also boasts a wellness centre (the biggest in Salento) where you can banish away those aches and pains with massages. After a treatment or two, lounge about on the pearly-white beaches just a stone’s throw from the hotel. 

Salento itself is a glistening haven filled with unspoiled sleepy towns and an interior area which is fundamental for the production of olive oil and wine, offering its visitors plenty to do (and sample!). Along its craggy and undulating coastline, you can find a whole range of different natural treasures – from golden sands to Karstic grottoes and saltwater lagoons. 

And if you’re more of a history buff than a sun seeker, Salento's sleepy towns are full of historic Greek remnants dating back to thousands of years ago – indeed, you'll find that the Greeks have left their footprints on the cuisine, culture and religion of the area.