Last week, I had the honor to spend at Villa Cappelli in Puglia Italy. Not only did I get to rest and relax here, but the proprietor, Steve and his right hand man, Vito, led an amazing series of day long bike tours in the region. When we weren't biking, they did multiple cultural tours to the local cities and castles which are steeped with over 7000 years of history, Knights Templar, and art from every epoque along the way.
Under Steve's watch eye, Villa capelli was not a b&b at which I stayed, rather it was my home and family in Puglia.
The rooms are gracious, clean, and comfortable. Luckily, there are no televisions to distract one from relaxing. The rooms are spacious and each room is uniquely decorated. With its cellars dating back over 4000 years, and first buildings dating back to 200AD, it is like visiting the coliseum with beautiful historical furniture and a swimming pool all in the comfort of a very quiet and secluded space surrounded by a formal garden and hectares of olive groves. A fun fact, Villa Capelli is actually located on a part of the Appian Way. The sense of home transcends the historical nature of the site, with three very loving dogs and a super team of pussycats making sure that everyone except rodents are included in the festivities. There is even a chapel dating back to the Knights Templar on site, if more meditative moments are required.
The villa can accommodate groups of up to 90 (estimated) people if a catered affair is in order. There is a lovely bar area for visiting and a small informal dining area and kitchen with an outdoor poolside eating area.
If you come, please don't expect a cold and sterile hotel. Expect instead, to be welcomed into somebody's amazing home and family. I promise you, you will not be disappointed.
Villa capelli is literally a house built by love and passion. When you visit, ask to look through the before and after pictures of the villa. The founders, Steve and Paul, took a ruin and turned it into a beautiful and comfortable home to be shared with others. You may enter as a guest, but if you are like me, you will leave feeling like a member of the family.
Lastly, if you are a chef in training, an advanced cook, or just someone looking for some new chips and tricks, please talk to Steve. He is an accomplished culinary artist who shares his passion freely. Steve prepared many healthy, delicious, and diabetic friendly meals for me, for which I shall be forever grateful.
Villa capelli maybe a bit out of the way, but I assure you, if you are looking for rest, relaxation, or even a bit of healing, then it is one place worth your making the journey and taking the time to stay.