The Masseria Torre Coccaro is our favourite hotel in Puglia. Brilliantly situated a few miles from the sea but within a short drive of Puglia’s most important sites, it works as an excellent base for those looking for a relaxing beach holiday or those wanting to explore this relatively unknown but fascinating region of Italy.
The Masseria was originally built in the XVI century as a defense weapon against the Turkish pirates, but with great sensitivity, the owner Vittorio Muolo has converted the main tower and surrounding buildings into a luxurious five star resort. All the rooms are vast (deliciously cool in the summer), with simple but beautiful locally sourced furniture and antiques, and smooth stone floors. Our favourites include one of the less expensive classic double rooms in the tower which overlook the surrounding countryside, lush with cactii and ancient olive trees. The most impressive room in the hotel is the honeymoon suite with its own private pool and orchard, and romantic cave-like interior.
Many of the rooms have their own private gardens, and as they are scattered throughout the grounds, it gives the hotel a feeling of intimacy more commonly found in private houses. At night the secluded seating areas are lit with lanterns and tea lights, often creating more of a Moroccan ambiance than Italian.
Puglia is a gourmet’s paradise and the hotel makes the most of local produce as well as making its own outstanding olive oil. There is a cookery school for those wanting to learn more and a fantastic Aveda spa for those in need of pampering.
As well as the gorgeous lake-style swimming pool, the sea is just a 3 minute drive away and the hotel boasts a private beach club with an outstanding fish restaurant (the sushi is divine!). In our opinion, the Masseria is a very special place that surprisingly appeals to both families with young children, honeymooners, and those wanting to escape. |
