It will be love at first sight for this spectacular villa in Puglia, the heel of the boot of Italy; Villa Santoro is set high up in a commanding position, looking across towards the hilltop towns of Cisternino and Locorotondo. With panoramic views over the olive groves, this pretty and traditional Puglian villa sleeps up to 8 people in 4 luxury suites. This is a Trullo house, built in a series of round shapes each with a distinctive conical roof, a style which is unique to Puglia.
In its own plot of 2 acres, the cultivated land is a riot of pomegranate, fig, apricot, almond and pear trees.
You feel your sense of well-being rising just arriving in this area. Thankfully, you have a short transfer from Brinidisi airport of only 48 minutes. From Bari airport, it is roughly an hour and 10 minutes.
With lovely rural views and delightful little towns all around, you have the best of both worlds - pop out for a coffee and be sure to try the local delicacies in nearby towns. Ostuni, thought to be one of the most beautiful places in the region, and a bit further afield (32 minutes’ drive), makes a wonderful destination for a day out. The baroque buildings and dreamy piazzas of Martina Franca (6km) are also worth a visit. When out and about, try an Africano - an espresso with Disaronno, fizzy water and ice.
Villanova di Ostuni has some of the best local beaches with crystal clear waters, acres of white sand and a charming marina. The beach is only about 20 minutes away but at Villa Santoro is a vast and remarkable “beach” pool. A delight for every child and, for the adults, with a glass of something chilled in hand, is there any nicer way to spend a sunny afternoon?
Then retreat to the bedroom suites and immerse yourself in the luxury of their high design - decorated in elegant creams and neutrals with en-suite bathrooms to match. There is a strong sense of decorative cohesion throughout the villa, which creates a supremely restful vibe.
At night, grill and chill around the BBQ and enjoy dining under the stars. Alternatively, enjoy an authentic, local culinary experience in the nearby trattoria within 1km of the villa. Puglia is known for its exquisite cuisine. In Cisternino, head to Pizzeria Da Angelo for some delicious wood-fired pizza and great local atmosphere.
This recently renovated private domain will enchant and delight you with modern sophisticated comfort underlying the utterly authentic Puglian architecture. Enjoy some well-earned relaxation at Villa Santoro and return with a suitcase of great memories to last you the year.