Critabianca - Masseria in Salento

Fantastic property. Superb service. Most friendly staff

Nothing

Charming, cozy, comfortable

The property has been renovated beautifully, and is located in the stunning Puglian countryside. The breakfast was exceptional, with the majority of the food being homemade. The family are warm and friendly people who go out of their way to make you feel welcome. We were given excellent recommendations and tips for places to visit and eat at in the area. We would return to Critabianca in a heartbeat.

Nothing!

I hesitated for a moment to write a review of this exceptional masseria because the more selfish part of me baulks at sharing word of it with the world at large. But that would be to do a grave disservice to the Ghione family who manage this faultlessly run boutique hotel with such obvious skill, passion and dedication, all their waking energies seemingly put into the service of their guests’ every need. There are many very good small albergi in Italy, but Critabianca is on an altogether different level. The setting is wonderful, in a placid part of the Salento near Cutrofiano, and within easy reach of some of the nicest towns of the region, including charming seaside Otranto and beautiful baroque Lecce. The house itself is notably attractive in its bucolic landscape, surrounded as it is by an expansive estate which includes olive, orange and lemon, and fig trees, as well as date palms near the tranquil piscina. Architecturally intriguing and possessing many features of historic interest, the main building includes an old former chapel adjacent to reception. Our room, the aptly named Architect’s Suite, was exquisite: airy, light, spacious, and full of fascinating characteristics - notably flagstone floors, atmospheric lighting, tasteful ceramics, an ancient stone wash tub cleverly converted into a modern shower, and its own private entrance and terrazzo (perfect for an early evening aperitivo). All of this and much more would be enough to merit a ten out of ten score, but what really sets Critabianca apart is the kindness and attentive service of the family and staff (especially multi-talented chef extraordinaire, Moussa). You really do feel in this hotel that you are an honoured guest rather than just a paying customer.

Every moment spent here was a pleasure.