Masseria Torre Maizza, a Rocco Forte Hotel
Puglia’s masserie were once the beating hearts of agricultural estates – historic, fortified buildings built of chunky limestone and painted in brilliant white. Today many have been converted into exclusive-use villas or luxury hotels, but few with as much style and character as Masseria Torre Maizza.
Set a few kilometres inland from Puglia’s eastern coastline, Masseria Torre Maizza may have started life as a 16th-century farm building, but that’s where the rustic comparisons end. Today, guests will find a romantic rooftop bar for enjoying the sunsets, an elegant restaurant overlooking a pool edged by vine-shaded pillars, an open-air fitness area, an indulgent spa and a nine-hole golf course. There’s even a complimentary shuttle running guests to the hotel’s private beach club less than 10 minutes away.
Spacious rooms have been brought up to date with smart Olga Polizzi interiors. Most stretch out along the edge of the golf course, though some look across the road towards the sea. Deluxe-category rooms and Junior Suites have private terraces, while Deluxe Suites have either a plunge pool or a garden. The best view is from the two-bedroom Torre Suite, complete with vast panoramic terrace.