Mario's place is hard to describe only because it was completely unexpected how fantastic it really was. We pulled in through a rather ordinary looking residential area of concrete apartment buildings. When we arrived at the gate, we were unaware what was on the other side, but as it opened and Mario's lovely mother, Laura, met us we were astounded. It's like a hidden park or a secret garden oasis in surrounded by a high wall. It was cooler, calmer, and quieter.

The apartment is actually a separate structure from the main house all set at the back of the property. The apartment was bigger than we expected, well stocked with everything we needed to cook a few meals, the living room couch was very comfortable, and the bed was fantastic. We slept wonderfully, waking the the birds singing and the breeze blowing through the shaded window. There is a table fan and a/c if you need it. We didn't bother because it was getting cool enough in the night to sleep comfortably.

The place is only a twenty minute walk from the main square in Lecce and very easy to get to and back, even in the night. The neighborhood is well-lit and safe. We would absolutely stay at Mario's again. We regret not staying longer, but we had already booked our flight.