Estlevante

Estlevante

, Via Toscano, 1, Vieste.

Deep in the maze of narrow streets and alleys that make up the medieval centre of Vieste is EstLevante, a tiny B&B dedicated to the slow pace of life of the Italian South.This is a position that is not only filled with the character the old town, but is close to Pizzomunno Beach, Vieste Harbour and Vieste Castle.

Estlevante is a typical Italian village house that has recently undergone a thorough rehabilitation, repurposed for its new life as a bed and breakfast yet retaining all the old charm, character and materials. The tiny door and steep staircase reflect a time when attack from the sea was an ongoing danger for a seafaring village, so a narrow entrance was a form of defence. At the top of the house the terrace offers a perspective over Vieste, the San Francesco promontory and the little island of Sant’Eufemia that guards the entrance to the harbour.

Every morning, Italian breakfast is served on the terrace or in the cosy dining area. Here the morning meal is a ritual. Cappuccino, espresso and typical products of the region, seasonal fruits, cakes and jams make a breakfast to remember.

All four guest rooms have a balcony, air-conditioning, television and an en-suite bathroom. The three double rooms are distintively decorated: Allegra in ivory colours figured with lilies, and cherry wood furnishings, Vesta with grey vintage furniture and Tosca in prussian blue and gold. Vittoria is a triple room with a double bed and a single, furnished with walnut.

Vieste is a destination in itself, with the old town perched on the headland and flanked by the long sandy beach of San Lorenzo and the even longer Castle beach. A stroll around the town will lead you through tiny streets, past shops and bars and restaurants, where you’ll find the medieval fortress of Castello Svevo, the Museum of Malacology (look it up!) and the 11th century cathedral with its baroque bell tower and painted ceiling. Head inland and you’ll quickly find hills and mountains perfect for walking and cycling.