Beach House I Gelsi, Torre Chianca, Puglia (sleeps 4), http://www.essentialitaly.co.uk/beach-house-i-gelsi

This fabulous beach villa belongs to beachwear designer Liza Bruce and the artist Nicholas Alvis Vega, both of whom have worked very hard over the past few months to produce this luxurious and beautiful sea-front home in an area of Puglia rarely visited by overseas holiday makers. Located only 12 kilometres from the stunning town of Lecce this is where the locals spend their holiday and enjoy the wonderful sandy beaches and calm Adriatic sea, ideal for families and couples.

This independent house is only metres from the sandy beach and not only is there a public beach but also a private beach (with loungers and umbrellas for hire) just a few steps along the beach. The furnishings and design of the house reflects both the owners' great style and taste but also its beach location. White walls, bright linens, paintings and furniture (and a giant horse!) mean that you know full well that the sea is lapping at your doorstep. The walled garden offers privacy and is a delightful place to relax and dine in.

Within a short walk of Beach House I Gelsi there are bars, restaurants and shops. Whilst not a built up beach resort Torre Chianca has good facilities and is understated. Further afield you can explore the Val D'Itria with its famous trulli and the seaside town of Otranto. The Salento region of Puglia offers crystal waters and quiet villages to explore.

Price: £1050 - £1450 per week

Location: Torre Chianca 100m, Frigole 3km, Lecce 12km, Brindisi 40km, Otranto 60km, Bari 170km

Flights: Easyjet and RyanAir fly to Bari and RyanAir flies to Brindisi