This large, modern property is well cared for and clean, but a bit lacking in decor. The bold but comfortable blue couches and the odd mystical paintings on the walls feel a bit hodgepodge in the otherwise simple and contemporary lobby. The property in general is spread out, with paved walkways and lush flowered trees and manicured lawns. There’s a fun and lively -- sometimes loud -- vibe at the hotel with music and dance activities for both kids and adults. However, there are still plenty of places for people who want to kick back and unwind, like around the pool and on the beach.

Right by the beautiful Ionian Sea, the hotel is located within the Marina di Ugento natural reserve, off a quiet, rural street near several other hotels within the area. Just an eight-minute walk to the small town of Torre Mozza, guests can enjoy the locale’s restaurants, shops, and bars. It's also a 35-minute drive to the gorgeous seaside town of Gallipoli, and an hour from Lecce, which has many tourist attractions. La Giurlita’s location right by SP 91 makes it easy for guests to travel to other nearby areas or go to Brindisi Airport, which is an hour and 24 minutes north.

Rooms are clean, spacious, and bright, with simple light wood furniture, pale walls, and large beds. Each unit has a small balcony with wicker chairs and a glass table, some which overlook the pool area. Those rooms in particular can be noisy due to the large crowds that gather by the pool and the music that plays throughout the day. All the rooms come with a safe, armoire, flat-screen TV, mini-fridge, and desk. Bathrooms are small but contemporary, with modern appliances, tiled walls and floors, a bidet, and narrow glass door showers.

Guests can enjoy a fair share of activities during their stay. The huge lagoon pool is divided in two sections and has a small bridge. Guests can lounge in one of the many chairs in the surrounding area, shaded by massive palm trees, or get a snack at the pool bar. La Giurlita also has a private sandy beach with beautiful turquoise water, a beach bar, and two lounge chairs for every room at the hotel. However, the designated area is very small and narrow, and there is a fee to sit on one of the loungers in the front row.

There are endless activities to keep guests entertained throughout their stay. For those who want to partake in some friendly competition, there's a tennis court, volleyball court, and soccer field as well as foosball and table tennis. There’s also a kids’ club and a downstairs ballroom where older children can hang out at night. The entertainment crew is very present and offers dancing lessons, evening entertainment, and many other activities. The two on-site restaurants both offer outdoor seating, and one even offers a section for new mothers with heated baby food and bottle warmers.