Fort Galantè, Alghero, Italy

Go back in time to this tranquil, 14th-century fort, that has also served as a monastery and is now a stunning holiday home. This converted section of the original building can sleep up to 6 people. Only a 7-minute drive from the beach and 10 minutes from Alghero, it is the perfect base for friends or family who want to combine beach fun with culture and excellent food.

The simple exterior opens onto a world of history with magnificent, vaulted ceilings and pillars carved out of the local stone. Double glass doors open into the spacious living area. Here guests can relax on comfortable sofas, enjoy a meal, catch up with work at the antique writing desk or even play the baby grand piano. This charming room is decorated with fascinating antiques and has a large, corner fireplace. Wooden stairs lead up to the mezzanine bedroom.

The modern kitchen is down a short corridor. It is well-equipped with a cooker hob with an oven, microwave, a Nespresso coffee maker, kettle, toaster and fridge/freezer. The corridor continues out to a small courtyard, full of fruit trees, where the monks used to meditate. It is a delightful spot to read a book or just soak up the peaceful surroundings.

In addition to the courtyard, there is a another private garden. Guests will find chairs and tables where they can enjoy a glass of local wine.

Sleeping
Bedroom 1: On the open mezzanine above the living room, this bedroom is divided in half by a screen. There are 2 double beds, a wardrobe and an en suite bathroom.
Bedroom 2: The second, ground-floor bedroom has a double bed, extensive wardrobes and a chest of drawers.

Bathrooms
Bathroom 1: The en suite, mezzanine bathroom is fitted with a glass shower, basin, bidet and WC.
Bathroom 2: This mosaic bathroom has a shower, basin, bidet and WC.

Additional
• Free Wifi • Private, fenced garden • Terrace • Outside seating • Ceiling fans • Smoke detector • Fire extinguisher • Washing machine • Books library • Music stereo • Piano • Hair dryer • Private Parking for up to 3 cars - car essential • Suitable for elderly guests • Check-in from 4.00pm, check out by 10.00am • Security deposit of €300 (€500 for groups under 21)

Location
The property is a 5-minute drive from the Spiaggia Maria Pia which is known for its fine sand and clear seas. Further north-west towards Porto Conte, there are several beautiful beaches. Some are well equipped with cafés, sun loungers and water sports facilities, others are wilder and less crowded. Spiaggia di Mugoni (18-minute drive) is particularly good for families with children, thanks to its gently sloping sand and pristine waters.

Guests should visit Alghero’s historic centre (10 minutes). Alghero has a fascinating collection of architecture, from the ancient walls that encircle the city to the 16th-century cathedral. The city is home to a wide range of beautiful churches, museums and palaces, making it a great destination at any time of year. A stroll around the port area is a rewarding experience, especially if it involves lunch or dinner at one of the many delicious, local restaurants.

For self-catering, the best and freshest local produce is available at the Mercato Civico Alghero (a 10-minute drive), by the walls of the old town. There is also a weekly market in the nearby town of La Taulera on Wednesday mornings. (4 minutes). La Taulera also has smaller grocery stores and supermarkets.

Alghero airport is 10 minutes away.