Lu Leccio

The good: This is a lovely property, optimally located just within the city gates of the old town. It has been beautifully restored and was very clean. The interior space was large with a small terrace. We were three people and rented the wellness suite with a sauna for 300E a night, breakfast not included. There is a small kitchen area and a separate entrance. There were two bathrooms, but the shower in the master is very small with no place to put toiletries except on the floor. The town is fantastic, certainly worth a longer stay than our two nights. Secure parking is located within a 5-minute walk, but you must call the hotel and reserve a discounted spot for yourself and hope they do not lose your reservation. Issues: I emailed the manager that we would be three people instead of two, and he responded. We also notified them of our arrival time and asked about parking, and were assured of no problems. Upon arriving, the owner said we had only reserved for two, and that parking would be impossible without a reservation. These issues were worked out, but not without some stress, he was not very friendly. Generally, I love smaller Italian hotels because the owners are usually so kind and welcoming, often with a glass of wine on arrival. This was not the case. However, the owner Roberto walked us back to the parking and made arrangements. When I asked him how to turn on the sauna, he told me it would cost an additional 40E per day which was quite disappointing so at that price I opted to not use it. I had booked a "wellness suite with a sauna", and I thought that is what I was paying for. There are charges for everything. There is one bath towel per person for five? days, a clean towel is 5E, check out is at 10, and if you are late there is a 25 percent surcharge charge for every two hours. When I paid my bill, he neglected to subtract the 216E deposit I had paid with the reservation and did not provide a receipt until asked. He told me he would send the money to my bank, which is difficult with a US bank. I showed him how to refund the money with the credit card app. Pay attention to the bill, I do not think he was dishonest, just very disorganized. There is a cute outdoor terrace, but only one chair for a two-bed suite. The maid left our interior door unlocked after cleaning, when I told Roberto, he said that is the custom, it was a safe area. Due to the unfriendliness of the manager, the excessive charges, and the lack of organization what should have been a relaxing stay in a beautiful city was stressful and difficult. I would not stay again.

Gorgeous hotel! The owner has done a masterful job incorporating modern amenities into a centuries old palace. Each guest room is unique and we loved our 2nd floor room with a terrace. The staff was great with recommendations and helped arrange a bike tour. The perfect base to explore Lecce.