For our party of 5 adults and two little girls (6 and 3) of diverse cultural and linguistic backgrounds, with different interests and priorities, this could not have been bettered as a location to come together to spend a week. The house made everything easy: it provided space and comfort. Everything worked, even the knives were sharp (and that's a first!). The flexibility of the space between house and garden was outstanding. It allowed people to be all together, but also provided space for privacy and intimate conversation. The garden was magical. It stimulated and satisfied every sense. The interplay of stone and planting (emphasis on native species) was a delight. Crickets at night. It is a wonderful place for reading. The children enjoyed the pool, the roof, and the livestock. They loved rolling down the slope crowned by the semi-circle of myrtle.They were fascinated by the sleeping beauty. Manduria was a charming working town, with a range of interesting buildings, including the cinema, and history; wonderful fruit and veg shop, cheese next door, and outstanding fishmonger, all within a couple of minutes drive from the house. This very proximity of the town allowed effortless access to the shops, or the passegiata and a gelato, from the sanctuary of the house. Sea bathing within easy reach and warm (although when we were there it was rather seaweedy; perhaps stirred up by the onshore wind?). The house is situated amongst miles of olives and vineyards. Its location is good for day trips by car to a range of World Heritage and other sites: Matera, Lecce, Alberobello and trulli territory, Otranto and Gallipoli. Eating out is great. Local wines are wonderful. Francesco is generous with his time and advice.