The apartment was just as described. Large, quite and nicely ventilated. Air condition absolutely not necessary as the apartment's location and layout guarantees cool temperatures even on hottest days. Patio large enough to comfortably sit 6 to 8 people around a large table.
Viviana and Daniele were fantastic hosts. Viviana always superfast and efficient in providing information and suggestions. Daniele was very carying and informative.
Distance to the shore: 5 minutes walk (literally). Upscale private beach resort (Lido Bacino Grande) on the other side of the artificial pond (rather expensive, yet worth the extra investment in "privacy" and personal space). Most of the sun-shades are seasonally rented, so availability to walk-in business is limited, especcially on weekends.
Public beach just 100 yards further down the street... very busy; get up early!
Closest grocery store is 800 m (1/2 mile) away. We would definitely recommend renting bikes for grocery shopping or even visiting nearby Porto Cesareo (15 minutes by bike). Traffic absolutely prohibitive in the evenings and on weekends. Torre Lapillo itself offers a rather limited amound of culinary options (a few pizzerie, fish and meet restaurants), quite unspectacular "city center" with cheese and crappy street markets.
Absolute highlight of the 2 weeks we stayed in Torre Lapillo: the SEA!!!. spectacular shore and crystal clear water. Salento has a lot to offer, but you need a car to fully appreciate the diversity of the landscapes and the cultural / culinary heritage of this wonderful area.