Vivosa Apulia Resort

Upon stepping into the sleek, contemporary lobby, an elegant, relaxed tone is set. Large comfortable couches are situated in various areas across the white-tiled room, creating cozy nooks for guests to lounge. Large glass windows allow for tons of natural light. A gorgeous fireplace, small library, and gift shop further outfit the area.

Vivosa ApuliaResortis located on a nature reserve, providing lots of shady wooded areas and grassy lawns. The gorgeous spa, beach, and multiple pools offer guests a place to truly unwind and relax, while the sports facilities and kids’ activities create a lively atmosphere, so there's the best of both worlds. There's also a great night scene on the property itself, with shows performed at the outdoor amphitheater and music and dancing at the lounge on the rooftop terrace.

Located on a beautiful nature reserve in Salento off of a tiny street, the hotel is a 10-minute walk through a wooded path to a gorgeous private beach. There is plenty to do and places to eat at the resort itself, but if guests decide to venture out, it is just a 10-minute drive to Torre San Giovanni, which has tons of restaurants, bars, and shopping. There are also plenty of nearby towns and attractions guests can travel to, including:

• Fontanelle Beach (15-minute walk)
• Lido Marini Beach (10-minute drive)
• Vado Tower (10-minute drive)
• Parco Gondar (30-minute drive)
• Torre Suda (20-minute drive)
• Otranto (60-minute drive)
• Brindisi Airport (80-minute drive)

These clean, spacious rooms are contemporary with classic flair. Warm coral bedding and curtains and sepia toned pictures of nearby landscapes give a nod to Mediterranean decor, while the light wood furniture is modern and design-conscious. With flat-screen LCD TVs, comfort mattresses, climate control, mini-fridges, and safes as well as small private patios or balconies, these rooms have all the amenities for a comfortable stay. They also come with a recycling bin, so guests can partake in the hotel's commitment to staying green. Internet access is available as well, but guest must pay a fee. The bathrooms are sleek and spotless, with white granite sink counters, white tiling, bidets, and glass door showers. Towel warmers are a luxe addition.

One of the main areas of Vivosa Apulia Resort is the eco-park and farm. Here, guests can enjoy the beautiful wooded areas, learn about the hotel's organic vegetable garden, go for an adventure at the eco-park's ropes course, or go on a stroll through one of the nature paths. One of these paths leads to a private beach -- just a 10-minute walk away -- with soft white sand and crystal clear water. There are tons of lounge chairs and umbrellas for guests to relax on, or they can enjoy a drink or snack at the beach bar.

The hotel spa has a serene, tranquil environment, with luxurious treatment rooms with private whirlpools, a large sauna, various showers, and a gorgeous private pool with hydro-massage beds and waterfalls. There are three other pools throughout the property. The large main pool is separated into two levels and has lounge chairs actually submerged within the water. And there are two kids' pools -- a small one next to the main pool, and another larger pool with water slides and sprinklers.

The athletically minded can enjoy access to tennis courts, soccer fields, and even a golf academy where guests can take lessons with pro-golfer Simon Elliot. In addition, there’s a fitness center with a variety of machines and weights, although they are squeezed into a small room and outdoor area. The hotel offers two eateries: Via Appia has a casual atmosphere and a buffet with a wide assortment of choices for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, part of the all-inclusive package. 'A Puteca is a bit more polished and serves only dinner -- focusing mainly on Mediterranean cuisine -- and is not included in the all-inclusive package. The fun doesn't just last throughout the day. Guests can enjoy the hotel’s several bars, including the terrace lounge, which overlooks the pool and has music and dancing.