Italy’s new hotspot.
This once over-looked Italian region is fast becoming the new Amalfi coast. From plant-based cuisine, the restored luxury farmhouses known as Masserie and an intriguing culture, it’s easy to see why celebrities and fashion editors have been flocking to the olive-tree clad Itria and Murgia valleys set on the heel of Italy’s famous boot.
A short distance south of Bari and north of Brindisi you’ll find a concentration of towns each uniquely diverse. From the quaint whitewashed Trulli’s in Alberobello, to the picturesque cove of Polignano a Mare and the baroque city of Lecce, it’s the perfect place to soak up Southern Italy’s rich culture and endless servings of olive-oil drizzled focaccia.
Old Traditions, New Luxury
In the centre sits the glamorous city of Savelletri di Fasano, home to the region’s most exclusive resorts, including the latest Rocco Forte hotel, Masseria Torre Maizza.
Surrounded by ancient olive groves, this restored original farmhouse dates back to the 16th century. Featuring 40 luxury suites with views of the Apulian countryside, a gourmet restaurant serving up fresh fish and local organic wines, a rooftop bar, and Insta-worthy swimming pool. It’s a must-stay for travellers craving the best in Italian heritage and design.
The hotel’s design director worked with local artisans to restore the building and it shows. Masserie Torre Maizza makes the most of the beautiful 16th century farmhouse from which it is fashioned, yet knows exactly what its discerning clientele want from their accommodation in this up-and-coming hotspot. Check in to one of the hotel’s private suites, where you will instantly feel at home. A home with private gardens and terraces and Olga Polizzi-designed living spaces decked out with local accents and state-of-the-art amenities. A home with glamorous fireplaces and views of the green Puglian countryside.
Start your morning at the Rocco Forte spa, a sanctuary that allows you to unwind and set the tone for the slow and easy Sothern Italian way of living. Next head to the hotel’s stunning pool and soak up the sun before heading to the glamorous pool bar. For lunch, dine on the tomato and mozzarella salad and gourmet handmade pastas. In the afternoon, enjoy a round of golf on the nine-hole executive golf course before heading to dinner at Carosello restaurant. Set in the former stables of the Masseria, the restaurant’s high white-washed ceilings, rustic pews and artsy décor combine elegance with authentic ambience. The mouth-watering menu is crafted by Chef Luigi Barletta using fresh produce from the region. Go for the monkfish and the seabass.
With its central location, Italian-home feel, and friendly staff, Masseria Torre Maizza provides the perfect base for exploring pretty Puglia.
– For more about Dubai’s lifestyle, news and fashion scene straight to your newsfeed, follow us on Facebook
