Simply Stunning
Review Submitted: March 31, 2009
Date of Stay: March 2009
I have recently enjoyed a short stay in Cisternino in the charming appartment Clara 1. Thank goodness we were met and taken to the appartment on our first (of many, I hope) visits. The Centro Historico is a very beautiful maze of car-free narrow streets and lanes and I would challenge anyone not to get lost until at least day 2 of your stay! Note; wheeled/manageable luggage is a good idea.
I found the appartment in the best of condition, it is well-maintained and clean which instantly makes one feel welcome. The furnishings, furniture and every piece of crockery, cutlery (yes, even sharp kitchen knives!) and bed-linen is clearly very carefully chosen. The kitchen is well stocked with useful equipment which we certainly put to good use, Puglia's markets, shops and farms being full of the best fresh produce, wines and olive oils. Note; Cisternino market on a Monday and several small shops minutes walk from the appartment. This is the perfect area for a foodie holiday.
The bedrooms are delightful, vaulted ceilings, wooden shuttered windows, comfortable beds, fresh linen, and very quiet. You can be sure of a very restful time here. Again, the shower room is well-designed and comfortable with a good strong shower.
The real surprise is the sun-trap of a roof terrace with an outdoor tub and al fresco shower. It is also perfectly appointed to enjoy outdoor dining. Note; not suitable for young children.
I would recommend any visitors to Clara 1 hire a car during their stay as there are so many beautiful nearby towns to visit and of course the coast is 10 minutes drive. Alba Ciara, a tented beach-front fish restaurant in Torre Canna is a rough and ready treat! Seasonal fish, seafood and shellfish is served by the hardest working staff with little ceremony and nothing but bread and wine. You will not find a menu here. I recommend trying sea urchins, a local delicacy.
Every journey takes you past a new cheese farm, roadside market, or wine producer, you will always make new discoveries! And there are several local maserias which welcome non-residents for drinks, dinner or as guests in their spas. But watch out, they can be hugely expensive.
I would recommend a stay at Clara 1 in a heartbeat. A delightful property with a private sun-trap in a charming and friendly town not far from the coast surrounded by beautiful towns and stunning Puglian countryside. What's not to like?!
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