Claudia’s small stylish and modern apartment was perfect for our stay- a mum and young son- in Polignano A Mare. Francesco, her boyfriend, met us and was very friendly and very helpful. He was there to greet us when we arrived at the gate after I called. The garage, accessed by a small street behind apartment, was excellent to have to park the car. Grocery shops- Luigi’s to the left, a fresh focaccia shop across the road, roast chicken/meat shop and deli to the left made grocery shopping easy and there are a few supermarkets around and near Monopoli but you need a car. My son was in ice cream heaven with a gelato shop on almost every block.
The apartment was spotless, and well provided. Having air con was ideal in the heat of August as well having a washing machine. The WiFi was able to manage Netflicks and YouTube streaming easily.
The apartment is within easy walking distance to the Old Town which was beautiful and buzzing in the evening. We spent most of our time swimming at Cala Paura during the day, which we walked to, and mainly due to how unbearably crowded the main town beach was in August. Here there was a simple food stall and shade could be found on the north side. We did have to clean up the piles of cigarette butts everywhere we sat, but this seems to be a sadly common Italian theme. The closer rock pool was never full when we were there- perhaps due to tidal times. San Vito beach, 10 minutes drop drive north was also nice and shallow for children with parking available 10 minutes walk due to closed roads. All areas had lovely warm water to swim in and was clean. Jumping off the sides seems to be the done thing so we joined in. My son had a safety swimming jacket as the water is deep but local kids his own age do it with arm floats. Of course it was busy but to be expected in August. You would have to arrive early to get a prime position to sit.
Sightseeing was left to the late afternoon when it got cooler and easy from Polignano. Alberobello and the Caves were worth a visit and easy with young kids. The Aquapark in Monopoli was a real hit with my 5 year old- expensive but who can argue with 6 to 7 hours of continual Aqua fun. Facilities are excellent and very clean. Hiring sun chairs and an umbrella are separate but worth it, esp asking for one with a table. We went there before our late flight back to the UK as there are shower and hair drying facilities.
Overall an excellent summer holiday- amazing food, sun, swimming, sights and very comfortable accommodation. What more can one ask for. Highly recommended.