The pool area at La Casarana Resort & Spa is pretty, with many white lounge chairs prefect for taking in some sun during the day. The pool has curvy edges and a small waterfall that shoots into the air. At night, the water is illuminated by colored lights and becomes a cool spot for relaxing and socializing. The indoor pool is modern with tile showers, massage jets, and brown wicker lounge chairs. There’s a bar in the buffet restaurant, and the dining room has red linens and square tables giving it a bit of a banquet hall feel. There’s a mini club for children ages four through 12, and a playground in a grassy lawn area.

La Casarana Resort & Spa neighbors a pine forest in the Salento region of Puglia. The beaches of Lido Marini are two miles away, and the hotel has an agreement with Lido Bora Bora, which is over five miles away, allowing guests to use its facilities. La Caserna also offers a free shuttle service to Lido Bora Bora. Gallipoli, known for its art, history, and beaches is a 30-minute drive, and Brindisi Airport is about an hour-and-a-half drive -- the hotel has an airport shuttle service for a fee. Parking at the hotel is free.

Guest rooms are spacious and modern with wood floors, giant leather headboards, and floral bedspreads. Bright yellow accent walls and yellow tiles in the bathrooms add color to the space. Some rooms have small, furnished balconies, and all rooms have stand-up showers with rain heads, flat-screen TVs, and Wi-Fi. A floor-to-ceiling column in the center of the Standard Room is a bit awkward. Apartments are available that have living rooms complete with two sofa beds, furnished patios, and kitchenettes with a small selection of cookware -- excellent for families or groups. Views can include the picturesque swimming pool or the street.

The hotel caters to children with an activities staff organizing games. There's also a playground and a children’s food section at the buffet restaurant. Adult activities include water aerobics and group dances. Free bicycle rental is available, and there is a wellness track in the pine woods. There’s also a small fitness center and spa. A tennis camp is available for a fee. The on-site restaurant provides half- or full-board meal packages, though there are some complaints about food quality. The spa is an excellent feature for this price point, massages and beauty services can be scheduled. Small pets are allowed for an extra charge. Note that the hotel requires guests to purchase a club card for access to the pool and Wi-Fi connection.