Details:
Located in the historic centre of Matino, 15 minutes from the crystalline
waters of Baia Verde, La Dimora di Jason is a holiday home occupying one half of the larger Palazzo de Maria.
Accommodation comprises two bedrooms, one bathroom, a large and elegant living room with balcony overlooking a neighbourhood courtyard, and a rustic kitchen with fireplace. Each room features comfortable antique and vintage furniture, much of which is Salentino, such as the pair of 19th-century armchairs in the sitting room and the ‘capretta’ (little goat) table in the master bedroom. Other pieces hail from the North of Italy, Morocco, Australia and New Guinea.
Italian linens, charming local ceramics and tableware, and quality utensils and appliances are on hand in the kitchen. From there, a staircase leads to a private roof terrace with expansive views over Matino and the surrounding countryside, all the way to Baia Verde. The terrace features a second kitchen with washing machine, pergola-covered dining area, an outdoor shower and sun loungers. Sunsets from the terrace are not to be missed: when the wind blows from the north, the mountains of Calabria can even be seen in the distance, over the Ionian Sea.
Piazza San Giorgio and Palazzo dei Marchesi del Tufo are just a few doors away. The palazzo’s frescoed stable, from the 18th-century, is one of the hidden jewels of Salento.
Cafes and bakeries vying to make the best pasticiotto and greengrocers with produce so fresh it’s still covered in dirt - even a local winemaker producing superb Primitive, Negroamaro and Rosato, sold by the litre - are within a one or two minute walk. You’ll also find wonderful restaurants on the doorstep such as Foscolo (also a cool cocktail bar) Pizzeria Lu Riale and Danilo Osteria Creative - where the only thing better than the fare is the warmth of the hospitality.
The morning’s hustle and bustle gives way, Spanish style, as the whole town seems to take a siesta in the afternoon. Then as the evening cools, locals reemerge for an aperitif, a game of cards or just a gossip along one of the cobbled streets.
