The Palmento Hour

A 19th-century Apulian masseria set among terraced olive groves outside Ostuni, this villa makes an impression before you've even unpacked. Arrive through old stone gates, then spend your days moving between the pool terrace – where the Puglian countryside stretches behind you – and shaded alfresco dining under ancient trees within dry-stone walls. Indoors, centuries-old vaulted ceilings and light stone floors sit alongside contemporary furnishings, while a rock-hewn wine press has been converted into a wellness area with a heated indoor hydromassage pool. Ostuni's white hilltop old town is an eleven-minute drive away.

Home truths:
* The two floors of the masseria are connected by external stairs rather than an internal staircase, so you'll step outside each time you move between levels.
* The pool is around 20 m from the main building – a short walk across the grounds rather than steps from the living area.
* If you're travelling with little ones, your host can provide a cot. Ask in advance to make sure everything is ready on arrival.
* Due to this home's location, we recommend hiring a car to get the most out of your stay. There's free parking for up to four cars on the driveway.
* For those with reduced mobility, there's a ground floor bedroom and bathroom here.
* The swimming pool isn't fenced.
* At full occupancy, one guest will sleep on a pull-out armchair bed in one of the living areas.