Maison Manara

With three kids of their own, Clara and Mikka designed Maison Manara to be a true family home. Inside, you’ll find board games, card games (including scopa, a must-have in Italy), a projector, toys, and all the essentials for a baby—everything you need for peaceful evenings at home after a day at the beach or exploring Apulia.

Outside, the kids can splash around in the pool—complete with toys—while the parents relax with an espresso in the summer lounge. As the evening winds down, head up to the rooftop to try and spot shooting stars. And maybe make a wish that the vacation never ends?

Not only is the house thoughtfully designed for families, but the owners also ensured it’s as beautiful as it is comfortable—because after all, you’re on vacation! While the original architectural elements have been preserved, modern additions like floor-to-ceiling windows, a well-equipped kitchen, a renovated bathroom, and air conditioning make everyday living incredibly pleasant.

Throughout the house, vintage furniture found at local flea markets pairs seamlessly with stylish modern pieces. In the living room, the Italian-made Marta lamp from The Socialite Family stands next to large vintage leather armchairs that invite you to relax. In the kitchen, you can savor local dishes on Mediterranean-style Molleni plates, inspired by a recipe from Italy’s culinary bible, La Cuillère d’Argent, which proudly sits in the room.

Come evening, you can sink into queen-size beds dressed in Olivier Desforges linen. As Clara puts it, “It’s a calming, typical, and stylish home.”

Having become true Apulians by adoption, Clara, Mikka, and their children now know the area like the back of their hand. Upon arrival at Maison Manara, guests receive a comprehensive guide to the best spots in the region. “The location in the village is ideal; everything is nearby, and you truly get to experience the Italian way of life.”

Their perfect day? Savoring seafood at Taverna del Porto or enjoying a rustico—a flaky cheese pastry typical of Lecce—while strolling through the streets of Maglie, dining at the charming Vardaceli trattoria just a minute’s walk from the house, visiting the village of Specchia (listed among the most beautiful villages in Italy), or renting a boat at Castro Marina to test the Mediterranean waters. It’s easy to see why a return trip every summer is a must!