The thick stone fends off the heat in Puglia’s city centre, creating an alcove at the contemporary Pollicastro Boutique Hotel. Occupying the 16th-century palace Palazzo de’ Perroni, the hotel’s central location and moody interiors serve guests well.

The grand historic structure blends with modern details thanks to the extensive conservative restoration by the Maglietta family preserved original features while incorporating smart technology. The ground floor includes a wooden car, as well as a bar and restaurant area. The layout comprises diverse, enchanting halls, a gilded bar a magnificent rooftop garden/terrace offering views for breakfast or evening aperitifs.

Pollicastro’s 12 unique bedrooms are on the three floors above, each uniquely hewn into the Lecce stone with polished wood to pair. A series of Classical rooms is paired with extraordinary suites.

For exploring food and coffee in Lecce, prioritise Filiera Café for specialty coffee and bites into the evening. Gimmi is your fine dining option.

Training Notes

Runners in Lecce enjoy year-round, with the mid-summer months demanding early morning workouts. The 400m central CONI athletics track is free to run on (Google Maps). Nearby running races include Acaya Half Marathon is nearby with a 12.5km road race or a half marathon taking place in March. For longer range, UTMB Puglia takes place north-east of Lecce – the route crosses the Gravine Natural Par taking place in early November. Salento parkrun takes place 13km north of Lecce (Google Maps).

The rolling terrain around Lecce provides ample quiet lanes with minimal climbing. Otranto (home to a triathlon) is on the coast to the East, 50km through the Salento countryside with smooth tarmac. Gallipoli is 60km south-west on the Ionian coast, while the coastal road from Otranto to Santa Maria di Leuca serves up sharp climbs.

Find road bike rentals in Lecce via Veloce Bike Rental who have gravel and carbon models for delivery in Lecce. The bikes are stored in Santa Cesarea Terme, if you will need the bikes in Lecce are provided by delivery only and for a minimum of two rental days.

For swimmers visiting Lecce, nearby beaches of Torre Mozza, Castro Marina and Cala dell’Acquaviva serve well for open water swimming. There is no performance swimming pool in Lecce.

Book at pollicastroboutiquehotel.com