Escape to Paradise: Contrada Macchia B&B, Your Dream Italian Getaway
Okay, buckle up, buttercups, because we're diving headfirst into my Escape to Paradise: Contrada Macchia B&B review. And let me tell you, this wasn't just a vacation; it was… well, it was something. Let's just say I came back a changed woman – slightly more relaxed, a lot more full of pasta, and with a newfound appreciation for the word "bellissimo."
The Basics: Accessibility and Stuff (Let's Get This Out of the Way)
Right, let's get the practicalities done first, because I'm not here to bore you with just the sunshine and rainbows. I will say, the Access, Facilities for disabled guests, Elevator, and Exterior corridor thing seemed pretty solid. Didn't personally test it, but it looked like they were trying. And hey, that's a good start, right? The website SEO says "wheelchair accessible", so believing is seeing. I'll trust the B&B is doing its best as I didn't test it.
Now, the Internet. Okay, Free Wi-Fi in all rooms! BIG WIN! Seriously, I need my fix of cat videos and angry tweets, and Contrada Macchia DELIVERED. Now, the Internet [LAN] thing is kinda old school, but hey, maybe some people still use those ethernet cables. Me? Nah, I'm all about that sweet, sweet Wi-Fi life, both in rooms and the Wi-Fi in public areas, so bonus points for that. Internet services were there, but, honestly, I was too busy being pampered to care.
Cleaning and Safety: Because Nobody Wants the Dreaded "Rona" (or Any Other Nasties)
Listen, I'm a germaphobe. Okay, maybe not full-blown germaphobe, but I definitely appreciate cleanliness. Anti-viral cleaning products, Daily disinfection in common areas, and Rooms sanitized between stays? YES, PLEASE! They were also doing the usual – Hand sanitizer everywhere, Staff trained in safety protocol, Masks and hygiene certification. It felt reassuring. The Cashless payment service was a lifesaver, and I loved that they had a Doctor/nurse on call. (Just in case I needed stitches for accidentally stabbing myself with a fork whilst wildly gesturing during a particularly passionate pasta-eating session.) Individually-wrapped food options and Safe dining setup made me feel like I could breath a bit, even around the dining situations. Speaking of dining…
Food, Glorious Food! (My Stomach is Rumbling Just Thinking About It)
Okay, this is where Escape to Paradise truly shines. And this is where I might get a little overly enthusiastic. Let’s start with breakfast, which, I'm happy to confirm, it was the most important meal of the day with Breakfast [buffet], and a Breakfast in room option if you were feeling extra lazy, like me. They did have Asian breakfast and Asian cuisine in restaurant options too, although I mostly stuck to the tried and true Western breakfast (hello, mountains of pastries!). Seriously the buffet was AMAZING, the selection was insane.
Now, the Restaurants. There was an A la carte in restaurant option as well as a Buffet in restaurant. The Wine bar had some pretty good options too. The restaurant itself was stunning with a Poolside bar option, so you're basically surrounded by beauty. The food? Oh, the food! The International cuisine in restaurant was top-notch. I will say, don't skip on the Desserts in restaurant and Soup in restaurant.
I spent one evening at the Western cuisine in restaurant, and everything took too long to get there. And the risotto was way too salty. I was a little angry. But I was with the other guests and we were having a good conversation, so it was fine. I would probably go again.
Room service [24-hour] was a lifesaver for late-night snack attacks. I even ordered a Bottle of water and some Coffee/tea in restaurant at, like, 2 AM. They brought it up with a smile. The staff really were gems and gave me a warm welcomed feel. Coffee shop, Snack bar were all a great asset to the hospitality of the accommodation.
Things to Do (Besides Eat and Sleep – Though That’s Highly Encouraged)
Okay, so while I spent a lot of time eating and sleeping, I did venture out. Things to do are mostly what they are, but what about the ways to relax? The Pool with view was… well, it was pure bliss. They even had a Poolside bar. (Someone hold me, I'm going into heaven.)
Now, let's talk about the spa. Oh… the spa. Body scrub? Check. Body wrap? Check. Massage? Oh, hell yes. I indulged in the full shebang. I got a Sauna, a Spa/sauna, a Steamroom and even a Foot bath, and I felt like I'd been reborn. I think I might have actually been drooling during my massage. It was that good. The Gym/fitness situation seemed pretty decent (I saw some people using it), but I preferred the couch. Swimming pool [outdoor], YES!
The Room: My Personal Paradise (Almost)
Okay, the Available in all rooms list? Air conditioning, Air conditioning in public area (vital!), Alarm clock, Bathrobes (yes, please!), Bathroom phone (still not sure why, but hey!), Bathtub, Blackout curtains (THANK GOD!), Coffee/tea maker, Desk, Extra long bed (crucial for my height!), Complimentary tea, Free bottled water, Hair dryer, In-room safe box, Mini bar, Mirror, Non-smoking, Private bathroom, Refrigerator, Satellite/cable channels, Seating area, Separate shower/bathtub, Shower, Slippers, Smoke detector, Sofa, Soundproofing, Telephone, Towels, Wake-up service, Wi-Fi [free], Window that opens… The room was seriously well-equipped.
And the little touches? Room decorations, Essential condiments. The Linens were so crisp, I swear I slept like a baby. And Daily housekeeping kept everything spotless. It was my little haven.
I will say, the Interconnecting room(s) available would be great if you were travelling with a family, but I was happily flying solo.
Services and Conveniences: Because They Thought of Everything
The list is long, and I won't bore you with every detail, but here's a quick rundown: Air conditioning in public area, Cash withdrawal, Concierge, Currency exchange, Daily housekeeping, Doorman, Dry cleaning, Elevator, Facilities for disabled guests, Food delivery, Gift/souvenir shop (I may or may not have bought a lot of souvenirs), Invoice provided (thank goodness!), Ironing service, Laundry service, Luggage storage, Safety deposit boxes, Terrace, Smoking area, Car park [free of charge], Car park [on-site].
One thing I found particularly helpful, if a little sad, was the Food delivery. I may have ordered a pizza one night when I just couldn't bring myself to leave my room. Don't judge me!
For the Kids (and the Young at Heart - like Me!)
I'm not a parent, but the Family/child friendly vibe was strong. They had Babysitting service, Kids facilities, and Kids meal. So, if you're travelling with the little ones, this place seems like a win.
Getting Around: Mobility for you!
Airport transfer was a godsend. Bicycle parking (didn't use it, but hey!), Car park [free of charge], Car park [on-site], Taxi service, and Valet parking. They've covered all the bases. It makes sense to just get someone to pick you up from the airport, am I right?
The Ambiance and Overall Vibe: Pure Romance (Maybe)
I went on my own, and this place is primed for romance. Lots of couples, a Proposal spot (hello, wedding bells!), and the general air of "dream getaway". It didn't bother me one bit, in fact, it was a nice, if a little lonely, experience. If you're looking for a romantic escape, this is your place.
Things I Didn't Get to Experience (But Would Have Loved To!)
- Meetings, Seminars, and Events: They clearly do host these things, but I was too busy relaxing.
- Asian Cuisine: I unfortunately didn't get to sample the offerings from the restaurant, but I will next time.
The Verdict: Would I Return to Contrada Macchia?
Absolutely. One hundred percent. Without a doubt. Escape to Paradise: Contrada Macchia B&B isn't just
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Contrada Macchia: My Tricase Tango (A Messy, Emotional Itinerary)
Alright, buckle up buttercups, because this isn't your meticulously planned, Instagram-perfect travelogue. This is the real deal. This is me in Tricase, Italy, and let me tell you, it's a rollercoaster. And Contrada Macchia B&B? Well, it's the station we’re all stopping at for a while.
Day 1: Arrival and a Whole Lotta "Ciao!" (and a Panic Attack)
- Morning (or what felt like a VERY LONG morning): Flight delayed. Naturally. Sat next to a guy who talked non-stop about his stamp collection. And, honestly? The stamp collection was… underwhelming. Already craving a proper Italian coffee. Landed in Bari, and promptly got lost trying to find the rental car. GPS? More like “Go Panic Soon.” Finally, sweet, sweet freedom of the open road (after a few wrong turns and the near-death experience of a Vespa rider).
- Afternoon: Arrived at Contrada Macchia. The B&B lady, bless her heart, was waving like a madwoman. She seemed genuinely thrilled to see me, which, in the wake of the stamp guy and Vespa near-death, was honestly a balm to my frazzled nerves. The room? Charming, in a slightly-dusty, "nonna's-attic-but-make-it-chic" sort of way. Immediate thought: YES. This is precisely what I hoped for. Followed by: oh god, I hope I packed the right adapters.
- Evening: Explored Tricase. Found the main square. Sat down, ordered my first proper espresso. Bliss. Then had a HUGE plate of pasta (carbonara, obvs). Ate it all. Felt guilty. Ate more pasta. The Trulli town was everything I dreamed of, a labyrinthine maze. Later, in the darkness of my room, I felt guilty about the pasta. The room has a fridge, I thought I had better stock up on beer.
- Late Night Rambling: Slept like a log. Or, well, tried to sleep. My brain decided that was the perfect time to replay every embarrassing moment of my life. Plus, a rogue mosquito, which, with all due respect, is the Italian equivalent of a tiny, buzzing, blood-sucking demon. At 3 am I'm at the fridge grabbing a beer. Ok, yes, so I forgot to pack bug spray.
Day 2: Marine Adventures (and a Near-Disaster with a Seagull)
- Morning: Awoke (eventually) to the sound of nothing. Utter, blissful silence. Which was immediately shattered by the incessant chirping of cicadas. (They apparently have a party outside my window that lasts all day). Breakfast at the B&B: Fresh bread, local honey, STRONG coffee. My morning. My jam.
- Late Morning: Drive to the coast. The Adriatic Sea! The water was crystal clear, the scenery? Unreal, the temperature was perfect. Strolled through a market. Picked up a few souvenirs, including a ceramic donkey (my current emotional state). It's kinda… adorable. Found a cliff with a lot of people. Decided to jump of it. Found out I can't.
- Afternoon: Boat trip. The best damn decision I ever made. The skipper, a man named Giovanni, looked like he’d been carved from driftwood and possessed a smile that could melt glaciers. He took us to hidden coves, showed us sea caves, and told tales that were probably half-true, but I didn't care. The sun was relentless but I was loving it. Nearly lost my sunglasses trying to take a selfie. Giovanni saved them. He's a hero.
- Evening: Dinner in a seaside restaurant. Ordered the seafood platter. It was, and I am not exaggerating, a religious experience. Fresh, delicious, and the way the sea breeze smelled… chef’s kiss. During dinner a seagull stole a piece of my bread, so I spent the next 30 minutes in a heated battle with it. It stole my bread. The seagull, it won. Went back to the B&B, found bug spray.
Day 3: Trastevere Today, Tricase Tomorrow? (Or: Lost in Translation)
- Morning: The B&B owner recommended a hike. I said, "sounds great". (I thought I said great anyway). Turns out, she said something that translated to "a full-on trek up a mountain". I'm not in shape for this. I hate every minute. The views, admittedly, were stunning. But my legs burned with the fire of a thousand suns. I was sure I'd need a doctor and maybe an ambulance. I ended up on a path, with no sight of a doctor or ambulance.
- Afternoon: Back from the hike. In a state of collapse. Spent the afternoon lounging in the courtyard of the B&B. Read a book. Napped. Recovering from the morning's ordeal. Found my peace. The owner gave me some figs. I am obsessed, and the owner is now my best friend.
- Evening: Took an Italian cooking class. Learned to make pasta. I made a mess, I burned a thing or two, but the pasta was alright. It tasted like home! Now I'm ready to conquer other lands.
- Late Night Rambling: I miss my bed back home. I miss my dog. I miss my life. I should have stayed home. Damn, I'm feeling sentimental. No, wait. I am in Italy. I am having the time of my life! Contrada Macchia. It’s not perfect, but it’s real. And right now, that’s all that matters.
Day 4: Departure (Almost… Maybe…)
- Morning: Heartbreak. It's time to leave. I packed all my bags. Went and said bye to the owner. The B&B owner gifted me a bottle of local olive oil. It was so kind! Got in the car, turned the key.
- Afternoon: the car won't start. No, no, no. Seriously? After all of the adventures, the seafood, the near-death experiences? The car wouldn't start. Took hours to get it fixed.
- Evening: Finally, the car is running! But I'm late for my flight. This isn't happening. I'm in my car speeding to the airport. I'm not getting this flight. I will have to return.
- Late-Night Rambling: I missed my flight. Fine. I'll just stay one more night. I am going to eat so much pasta. Actually, maybe I will try to stay forever. Who needs to go home?
Quirky Observations & Emotional Reactions:
- Food: The food here is so good it makes me question all my life choices. Why didn't I move to Italy sooner?
- People: The Italians are loud, passionate, and incredibly welcoming. I feel like I've known them my whole life, even though I can't understand half of what they say.
- The "Struggle": Everything is a little chaotic, a little messy, but that's the charm of it. It's not a perfectly polished vacation, it's a living, breathing experience. And honestly? It's perfect.
- The mosquito: It is still OUT THERE. I can hear its tiny, buzzing, blood-sucking ways. Every night. It's become a personal vendetta.
Final Thoughts (For Now):
Contrada Macchia and Tricase, you’ve stolen a piece of my heart. I'm leaving with a sun-kissed face, a full belly, a slightly dented bank account, and a mosquito bite the size of Texas. But most importantly, I'm leaving with a reminder of how to truly live. And I know I'll be back.
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Okay, So, "Escape to Paradise: Contrada Macchia B&B"... Is It *Really* Paradise? (Because, Let's Be Real, Travel Brochures Lie.)
Alright, deep breath. Paradise? That’s a big word, isn't it? My initial reaction, walking in after HOURS of driving (seriously, the roads… more on *that* later) was… relief. Relief and a serious "whoa." It *felt* like paradise, but not in the airbrushed, perfectly-posed brochure kind of way. Think more… earthy, sun-drenched, with a slight undercurrent of "rustic charm." (Translation: Expect a few friendly bugs. And maybe a wonky tap in the bathroom. My tap was, bless its soul.)
The view? The view is genuinely stunning. You look out from the B&B, and BAM, rolling hills, vineyards, and the feeling of just… breathing. That, right there, is pretty darn close to paradise. But then again, my definition of paradise might be a slightly neurotic woman finally relaxing after a particularly brutal tax season. So, you know, take that with a grain of salt the size of Mount Vesuvius.
The Food. Oh, God, The Food. Tell Me Everything! (And Be Honest, Did You Gain 10 Pounds?)
Okay, this is where things get messy and glorious. The food at Contrada Macchia? Let's just say it’s a sensory *assault* in the best possible way. It's like your Italian grandmother somehow crash-landed in the kitchen after winning the lottery and decided to dedicate her life to feeding you until you pop. Which, by the way, is a very real possibility.
Breakfast? Forget your sad, pre-packaged hotel croissants. Think freshly baked bread, mountains of fruit, the kind of prosciutto that melts in your mouth, and the strongest coffee you’ve ever had. I actually had to *ask* for a second cup. I’m still ashamed. Lunch and dinner were feasts. And the wine… oh, the wine. Local, delicious, and readily available. Honestly, I’m pretty sure I saw a waiter refilling a glass *before* I even finished the last sip. Sneaky devil, but I loved him for it.
Did I gain weight? Absolutely. No question. I could practically hear my jeans crying by the end of the trip. But you know what? No regrets. Worth every single pasta-filled, gelato-laden pound. The food IS paradise. Period.
The Rooms: Are They Actually *Comfortable* Comfort, or That "Rustic" Comfort Where You're Sleeping on a Rock?
Okay, "rustic" is the key word here. Let's just get that out of the way. These aren't five-star hotel rooms with heated towel racks and pillow menus (though, honestly, a *good* pillow menu would be amazing...). Think charming, clean, and comfortable. The beds are comfy. Thank GOD, after the relentless driving – a comfortable bed is ESSENTIAL!
The rooms are lovingly decorated, with a definite "lived-in" vibe. There’s character! There’s history. There's sometimes a slightly questionable tile on the wall. But it all adds to the charm. Think: Exposed beams, probably handmade furniture, maybe a view worth dying for (spoiler: they all have amazing views).
The bathroom... as mentioned, mine had some plumbing issues (it dripped, constantly. I think it was just… *thinking* about dripping.). But it was clean, functional, and had hot water. And honestly, after a day of exploring, I couldn't have cared less. The place just has a way of making you… chill.
What's the Vibe? Is it Party Central, or More of a Peaceful Retreat? (Because I NEED Peace, Please!)
Oh, thank GOD, it's peaceful. Utterly, completely, gloriously peaceful. Contrada Macchia is NOT the place to go if you’re looking for a wild night out. It's the place to go if you're looking to *escape.* The only "party" I witnessed was a tiny, slightly bewildered lizard sunbathing on a rock.
It’s perfect for people who want to disconnect (though, let's be honest, the Wi-Fi is decent), relax, eat delicious food, and soak up the Italian sun (or, you know, hide indoors with a book if the sun gets too enthusiastic). Everyone seemed to be there to unwind, which made for a really lovely atmosphere. I spent most of my time reading, wandering around the property (lots of nooks and crannies to discover), and trying (and failing) to learn some basic Italian.
If you crave tranquility, this is your spot. If you're looking for a place to scream your lungs out at karaoke… probably not.
Okay, Spill the Tea: The Biggest Downside? The Thing I Need To Know BEFORE Booking.
Alright, let’s get real. There's a few quirks. The aforementioned driving… The B&B is in a pretty remote area. The roads can be… challenging. Narrow, winding, sometimes with more potholes than actual road surface. You need to be a confident driver, particularly if you're coming from a city.
I spent, I swear, a solid hour slowly inching around a hairpin turn, convinced I was going to tumble down a cliff. (I wasn’t, thankfully, but the fear was real.) Seriously, factor in extra time for getting around, and maybe bring a co-pilot to navigate – or at least to provide moral support and a steady stream of calming affirmations.
Also, as lovely as the staff are, their English isn't perfect. Now, this isn’t a problem, and you manage perfectly well (and, hello, it’s Italy!). But be prepared to use your hands, some broken Italian, and a lot of smiling. And sometimes, things get *lost in translation.* It adds to the charm, but don't expect them to cater to your every whim. You’re there to adapt to *their* amazing reality.
OMG, The Scenery! But Really, What Can I *Do* There? Beyond Eating All the Food.
Okay, let's break this down. You *can* do a heck of a lot more than just gorge yourself (though, trust me, you’ll want to). The setting itself is just begging you to explore. Think hikes, walks, maybe a bike ride if you're feeling super energetic (I was not, but many others were). There are little villages nearby that are straight out of a movie set; the local towns are charming, with tiny shops, and, of course, more amazing food.
They'll often have suggestions for day trips, too. I went to Pompeii, which was absolutely incredible (and utterly exhausting, so bring water). The Amalfi Coast is within easy reach, but be warned: driving those roads is enough to induce a nervous breakdown. There are wine tastings! Cooking classes! And opportunities to do absolutely nothing but stare at the view and listen to the cicadas (my personal favorite).
The real beauty is in the simplicity. Just being *there* is an experience. Wander. Get lost. Talk to the locals (even ifStay Finder Blogs
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