9 Unique Stays in Puglia to Add to Your Bucket List
Puglia is one of my favourite regions in Italy! From picturesque beaches and islands, to quaint UNESCO heritage sites, and delicious sea food, this region makes the perfect addition to any summer Italy itinerary. For those looking to experience some of the local culture by staying in a historic palazzo, or a typical trulli house when in Puglia, I have the ultimate list of recommendations for you. So read on to discover some truly unique stays in Puglia to make your trip a truly unforgettable one!
The Best Time to Visit Puglia
Puglia generally experiences pleasant weather throughout the year. Without a doubt, Spring marks itself as one of the greatest seasons to visit Puglia. The area awakens during this time with a riot of colours and scents. The weather is perfect for touring the area because it is mild. This is the ideal time to explore sleepy towns in Puglia, go to famous landmarks like Alberobello's trulli, and take advantage of the less crowded beaches.
Summer is the most sought-after season when tourists flock to Puglia, so it attracts a lot of attention during the summer and gets extremely busy. However, if you're looking to experience Puglia's lively nightlife, it is best experienced during the summer months.
If you're looking for a more laid-back and affordable trip, think about going to Puglia in the fall or winter. October is a great month for outdoor activities because the weather is still nice and you will get to witness the harvest season in Puglia is one of the main attractions of fall! Those visiting in winter can also opt to spend Christmas in Puglia and experience the local Christmas traditions, markets and much more!
Where to Stay in Puglia? Explore Some Unique Stays in Puglia
Trulli Hotels
Let's start with the iconic trulli, traditional Apulian stone huts with conical roofs that dot the countryside. These charming dwellings can be found throughout the region, but Alberobello is the best place to experience them. If you're in Puglia, staying in a Trullo should definitely be on your bucket list! If you're looking for a Trulli Hotel, I highly recommend checking out the Trulli E Puglia resort.
Trulli E Puglia resort is a cluster of traditional stone trulli nestled in the UNESCO World Heritage site of Alberobello. These unique cone-shaped dwellings exude an irresistible old-world charm, offering you a glimpse into the region's rich history and architectural heritage. Each trullo has been meticulously restored to provide modern comforts while preserving its original character. You can bask in the tranquillity of private gardens, as you enjoy the captivating beauty of this fairytale setting!
Cave Hotels
Puglia is home to several unique cave hotels, and the best one that should be on your list is the Grotta Palazzese in Polignano a Mare. Carved into limestone cliffs, this cave hotel offers you breathtaking views of the Adriatic Sea. It also has a private beach for guests and a world class services, perfect for a relaxing family vacation in Puglia.
Make sure to reserve a table for dinner at the famous cave restaurant inside the hotel that overlooks the sea where you can enjoy delicious local cuisine, while enjoying spectacular views of the coast.
Masserie
For a taste of rural luxury, consider staying in a Masseria, which is a traditional fortified farmhouse. Many masseries have been beautifully restored and converted into elegant hotels, offering you a perfect blend of history and modern comfort. If you would like to stay in a traditional, yet luxurious Masserie during your time in Puglia, here are my three top recommendations:
Masseria Torre Coccaro
Masseria Torre Coccaro is a captivating retreat in the coastal town of Savelletri di Fasano. It is set in an ancient watchtower, close to the beautiful coast and wonderful olive groves. As a guest at the hotel, you can enjoy the large outdoor swimming pool, private white sandy beach area and an exclusive wellness centre featuring a Turkish bath and hot tub for free. It is the perfect choice for those looking to relax and enjoy the beautiful seaside the region has to offer.
Masseria Cervarolo
Tucked away amidst the rolling hills and ancient olive groves of Puglia, Masseria Cervarolo provides a peaceful refuge in the heart of the countryside. With its whitewashed walls and rustic charm, it offers you a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Located between the historic towns of Ostuni and Martina Franca, you'll find the freshest farm picks at the restaurant, an outdoor swimming pool to cool off at during the hot summer days and an ancient chapel to explore.
Masseria Cimino
Nestled amidst the picturesque countryside near Ostuni, Masseria Cimino invites you to experience the authentic warmth and rustic elegance of Puglia's traditional farmhouses. This unique stay in Puglia is close to the sea, and is also the perfect spot to experience a slice of the luxury farm life in Italy. You can bask in nature while enjoying the old farm charm or opt to spend time on the beach or by the outdoor swimming pool.
Castle Stays
Historically speaking, Puglia was once home to many castles that have now been repurposed to accommodate anyone visiting the beautiful region. This majestic feeling of living in the region's mediaeval past is a lovely experience that you should explore by staying in a beautifully restored castle. The most famous one in the region is surely Castello di Ugneto
Castello di Ugento is a true gem for those yearning to indulge in opulence while steeped in centuries of history. This magnificent castle, dating back to the 17th century, has been transformed into a luxurious boutique hotel, boasting elegantly appointed rooms and suites that exude timeless elegance. The rich tapestry of Puglian culture through curated culinary experience, exquisite gardens, and a serene pool mixed with a dash of aristocratic splendour is the perfect recipe for living like royals at Apulia!
Historic Palazzos
Many of Puglia's towns and cities boast of grand historic palazzos, which mean Palaces, that have been transformed into elegant hotels. Another way to enjoy the Apulian lifestyle is to experience the opulence of a bygone era by staying in one of these magnificent properties, where you can admire frescoed ceilings and ornate architecture! Here are some historic palazzos to add to your bucket list:
Palazzo Presta
If you're looking for a historic spot to soak in the vibes of beautiful Puglia, step into Palazzo Presta, a magnificent 4 star hotel in Gallipoli, known for its white sand beaches. This breathtaking residence is steeped in history and architectural splendour and offers you a seamless blend of old-world elegance and modern luxury. The rooms are meticulously designed and showcase sophistication, with a touch of antique furnishings. This is definitely a splendid stay for you!
Palazzo Bozzi Corso
Bozzi Corso is another beautiful historic palazzo, located in the heart of Lecce, also known as the Florence of the south. This majestic Palazzo offers a harmonious blend of history, art, and luxury. Each room has a lavish whiff of refined elegance, adorned with period furnishings, intricate frescoes, and stunning views of the surrounding streets.
Palazzo Daniele
If you're looking for a contemporary haven nestled in the sun-drenched landscapes of Puglia, this exquisite palazzo, located in the charming town of Gagliano del Capo, is the perfect match!
Each room is thoughtfully curated showcasing a unique blend of contemporary art, minimalist elegance, and a deep appreciation for the region's cultural heritage. You can meander through the palazzo's art-filled spaces, relax in the tranquil courtyard with its signature arches, and engage with the local community within the premises. With its dedication to art, design, and authentic hospitality, Palazzo Daniele invites you to experience Puglia through a lens of creativity and innovation!
Don Totu Dimora Storica
Don Totu is a meticulously restored historic residence that captures the essence of refined luxury in the heart of Salento. This Palazzo is an elegant retreat, with its noble architecture and serene courtyards which offer you an oasis of tranquillity and sophistication. It presents itself like a boutique luxury hotel but also includes an infinity pool, gym, landscaped gardens, vaulted ceilings and spacious common areas. With its baroque and modern Italian architecture, Don Totu Dimora Storica promises you a stay that intertwines the grandeur of the past with the comforts of contemporary luxury.
Wine Estates
Puglia's fertile soil and Mediterranean climate make it ideal for farming as well as for creating the region's most delicious wines. If you're a wine lover like me, you should consider staying at one of the many beautiful wine estates this wonderful region has to offer. I highly recommend Nordisk Village Puglia.
Nordisk Village Puglia houses stylish, minimalist tents that provide a cosy sanctuary under the starlit sky. The village seamlessly blends contemporary comfort with the beauty of the great outdoors. Nestled amidst the tranquil olive groves and the Masseria Cuturi wine estate, with a focus on sustainability, it offers an array of amenities, including communal kitchens and modern bathroom facilities. If you're looking for a primal stay, along with waking up to the sounds of fresh air, swaying leaves and chirping birds, this is definitely the perfect place for you!
Boutique Townhouses
Apulia has lovely historic spaces filled with charming boutique townhouses that have been lovingly restored and transformed into stylish accommodations.
The locals stick by traditions, but every once in a while, you can see the acceptance of modern architecture amidst the historical towns of Boutique Townhouses are a testimony to this cultural blend. And what better way to experience this, than to immerse yourself in the local culture by staying in the heart of a bustling town or city!
Paragon 700 Boutique Hotel
Nestled within the historic centre of the picturesque city of Ostuni, this Boutique Hotel is a unique stay in Puglia for those who are looking for refined elegance and intimate luxury. Housed within a meticulously restored 18th-century palace, the hotel exudes an air of timeless sophistication, with curated interiors and a sense of understated opulence. The hotel also houses a restaurant, where you can treat yourself to a gourmet dining experience, and a spa, to unwind at after a long day of exploring. Paragon 700 is definitely worth the stay!
Historic Convents and Monasteries
Puglia is home to several historic convents and monasteries that have been converted into unique accommodations. Now, these hotels are more than just places to stay; they are sanctuaries that offer a blend of history, culture, and luxury. Whether you’re lounging in a spa built within ancient walls or sleeping in a room that once housed monks, you’re part of a living history that continues to evolve and enchant!
Relais Monastero Santa Teresa
Relais Monastero Santa Teresa is one such gem that has embraced its past to offer a unique stay. Nestled in Nardò, this 14th-century monastery has been meticulously renovated to become a serene hotel and spa. The transformation aligns with the building’s original features and you can still witness the romance of old Italy, embedded through its designs that have been retained from the Middle Ages through the Renaissance. As you wander through the long corridors and vaulted ceilings, you can’t help but feel transported to another era.
The hotel boasts 10 guest rooms, each occupying what were once monastery cells. The rooms are a blend of old-world charm and contemporary elegance, with restored original doors, antique-effect plaster finish, and earth-toned fabrics.
San Paolo Al Convento
Have you ever wondered what it's like to live in a convent? If you're looking for a unique stay, located in the picturesque coastal town of Trani, this former convent of Barnabite Fathers has been transformed into a peaceful retreat. The San Paolo offers you guest rooms in the former cells once inhabited by monks! The location of the hotel makes it an ideal getaway to explore Frederick’s charming and ancient town, and if you're seeking relaxation, there’s a spa, while the beach is just a kilometre away.
Luxury Seaside Resorts
Puglia's coastline is dotted with world-class resorts that offer you top-notch amenities and stunning views of the sea. And if you're looking for a summery salty beachside resort, Puglia is the ultimate coastal getaway that will offer you a perfect family vacation rendezvous!
Borgo Egnazia
Borgo Egnazia is one such luxury seaside resort that makes it on our list of unique stays in Puglia. This lavish five-star resort resembles a traditional Apulian village and sits majestically overlooking the Adriatic Sea. The resort's architecture pays homage to the region's heritage, with whitewashed buildings like most Puglian buildings along with charming cobblestone streets. At Borgo Egnazia, you can indulge in world-class amenities, including a sumptuous spa, a championship golf course, and a private beach club. The resort's dedication to impeccable service and attention to detail ensures a truly unforgettable experience whether you're looking for a romantic getaway or spending time with the family.
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