Accomodations : Essenza Garden and Spa
**Luxury rental in Galatina Italy**
Converted abby hidden away in Galatina
Historic Essenza Garden and Spa
Stone Star Vaults & Private Heated Pool
Discover an authentic Puglia luxury retreat in this meticulously restored 17th-century historic home. Nestled in the prestigious Corte Santa Maria, this boutique Salento residence offers a rare fusion of Baroque architecture and modern luxury. Whether you are seeking a romantic getaway in Galatina or a central base to explore the Ionian Coast and Adriatic coasts, you are just steps from the vibrant and historic town center while enjoying a sanctuary of absolute tranquility.
Experience Italian slow living at its finest: start your morning with espresso under traditional stone star-vaulted ceilings (volte a stella) and end your day by the fire table enjoyng a sunset aperitivo and dip in the brand new spa/pool.
The Space
Immerse yourself in the soul of Salento in this 17th-century former abbey. Essenza Garden and Spa is a an architectural journey, featuring hand-carved Lecce stone and the iconic star-vaulted ceilings typical of aristocratic Italian estates.
This historic Salento home has been updated with premium 2026 amenities, ensuring a seamless blend of old-world charm and high-end comfort. From the gourmet kitchen, outdoor kitchen, pizza oven, and barbeque to the walled garden with spa pool and fire table- every inch of this historic center (centro storico) gem is designed for the discerning traveler looking for an exclusive Italian experience.
Have a large party? Consider renting Essenza Garden and Spa and our next door property, Dimora Galatina
Iconic Interiors
Grand Living Room: Majestic 17th-century stone architecture, a romantic fireplace, cable TV, and a deep, oversized sofa for relaxation.
- Contemporary well-appointed Kitchen: New kitchen featuring high-end appliances (XL refrigerator, ice-maker, dishwasher, oven, microwave, coffee/espresso station, curated local wine collection)
- Large Living Room featuring original Cementine floors, star- vaulted ceilings, workspace nook, and large sleeper sofa
- Beautiful music: Dimora features a high-fidelity record player and a curated vinyl collection, offering a rich, low-tech sound experience
- Tranquil Walled Garden The pefect place to relax with a spa pool, fire table, outdoor kitchen, pizza oven and barbeque
Guest Access
You will enjoy exclusive 100% private access to the entire property.
- Privacy with an independent entrance from a traditional quiet courtyard.
- Outdoor luxury Full use of the private walled garden, pool and outdoor kitchen & lounge.
- Stress-free parking: Available on the adjacent streets just outside the historic center.
Premium Amenities
- High-Speed Broadband Wi-Fi: Perfect for remote work or streaming.
- Climate Control: Full Air Conditioning and Heating.
- Laundry: Brand new washer and dryer for long-term stays.
- Safety: Smoke, and CO₂ detectors for total peace of mind, large safe
- Pet-friendly: We welcome your furry family members, with dog beds, toys and treats
Unbeatable Location
Walk to Galatina’s most iconic landmarks in under 5 minutes:
- Basilica of Santa Caterina d’Alessandria (A Gothic-Romanesque masterpiece)
- Piazza San Pietro & the Chapel of San Paolo (The birthplace of the Tarantella).
- Travel: Only 39 minutes from Brindisi (BDS) Airport and a short drive to the turquoise waters of Gallipoli.
Galatina is 40 minutes from the Brindisi- Salento airport.
Restaurants:
Anima e Cuore 3 min walk
Crunch Bistrot 3 min walk
Corte del Fuoco 5 min walk
Il Fienele 7 minute drive
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Essenza Galatina is near significant Monuments of Faith: Via Francigena del Sud- Basilica Santa Caterina, St. Paul’s Well (Tarantism), Catholic Holy Souls of Purgatory Church, and Saints Peter and Paul Church.
Highlights
- 1400 sq ft
- 5 Guests
- 3 Baths
- Broadband Internet
- Washer / Dryer
- Pets Welcome
- Private Courtyard & Pool
- Solarium
- Outdoor Kitchen
- Pizza Oven & BBQ
Immerse yourself
The town has a magical vibe, and the baroque architecture makes you feel like you are in a movie set- except this is authentic Italy! People are kind and generous, the food and wine are superb, and the town is bustling and safe under the fairy-light lyrics of Tarantella.
Essenza Garden and Spa is perfectly situated in the heart of Centro Storico, but nestled in a private and quiet court yard. Minutes from the awe-inspiring Basilica Santa Caterina, Aperitivo Bistrots, or dinner at restaurants with a ‘Foodie’s discerning menu.
See our ‘7 Perfect Days Itinerary’
Experiences
Galatina a is a charming all-year city where the people are generous, the food is farm/sea to table and the wines/beers are treasures for you to discover.
- Large selection of gourmet restaurants
- 85 wine estates within 2 hours of Galatina
- 30-45 minutes to a dozen of world-class beaches and lidos
- As St. Peter and Paul visited Galatina- Galatina is a city of religious significance with a Basilica, over 20 interesting and beautiful churches, the well of St Paul, and a Purgatory church
🍷 Bespoke Concierge & Luxury Experiences
Elevate your Puglian getaway with our curated selection of luxury guest services. We specialize in creating tailor-made itineraries that allow you to immerse yourself in the authentic Salento lifestyle with zero stress.
✨ Private Culinary Art
- Authentic Personal Chef: Enjoy a multi-course Apulian dinner prepared in your 17th-century kitchen using fresh local ingredients.
- Traditional Pasta Masterclass: A private, hands-on lesson in the art of making Orecchiette and regional specialties.
- Expert-Led Wine Tours & Tastings: Discover the bold flavors of Susumaniello, Primitivo, Negroamaro, Fiano and Vedecca with a curated selection of local boutique wines.
✨ Exclusive Tours & Transport
- Elite Private Driver: Seamless airport transfers or full-day wine tours through the Salento countryside.
- Vintage Italian Car Rental: Experience the “Dolce Vita” by driving a classic Spider or Vespa through the white-washed streets or along the Ionian coast.
- Private Boat Charters: Explore the hidden sea caves and turquoise waters of Gallipoli and Otranto from the comfort of a private vessel.
- Deep Sea or Octopus fishing experiences: Experience the bounty of the sea with an adventurous day out on the water
✨ Wellness & VIP Access
- In-Home Spa Treatments: Professional masseurs and holistic therapists available for relaxing treatments on your private panoramic terrace.
- VIP Restaurant Reservations: Gain priority access and the best tables at the most sought-after fine dining establishments and local trattorias.
- Luxury Beach Club Access: Reserved loungers at the most exclusive Lidos along the Puglia coast.
✨ Premium Home Services
- Tailored Housekeeping: Daily cleaning or mid-stay linen refreshes available upon request.
- Pantry Pre-Stocking: Arrive to a kitchen stocked with artisanal Puglian olive oil, local cheeses, and gourmet essentials.