Borgo Egnazia

Italy’s luxury hotels are not confined to the grand cities or to the popular regions of Tuscany and Umbria. Lesser-visited Puglia has some stunning luxury hotels that have, until recently, been a secret known just to the few. Tucked away in the heel of Italy and boasting not only layers of history but a lengthy coastline, and landscapes ranging from dramatic ravines to soft valleys, Puglia has luxury hotels in palazzi, castles and ancient masseria. Expect to be spoilt with treats such as marble bathrooms, rooftop pools and gourmet restaurants.

Rural luxury hotels

Castello di Ugento

  • On the southern coast, Castello di Ugento is a must for design-lovers and foodies. The 17th-century castle, surrounded by olive groves, has had an inspired transformation with rooms showcasing top Italian designer furniture alongside antique pieces; some rooms have terraces or patios. There’s a world-renowned cookery school as well as superb restaurant and you can dine in the Norman tower or romantic courtyard.
  • For a quieter location, take a look at Don Totu, an 18th-century palazzo in the sleepy village of San Cassiano. With just six rooms of pale colours, muslin drapes, four-poster beds - and some with stone walls and vaulting - this makes for a glorious retreat after a day’s exploring. There’s a large garden with terrace and swimming pool.

For Exclusive Use

Castle Elvira

  • Anyone looking to book a special getaway with a group of friends should consider Castle Elvira. It's a beautifully restored period property just north of Lecce which can accommodate up to twelve in luxurious suites and a separate cottage. You can expect top notch linens, up-to-the-minute interiors, a stunning infinity pool, roof terrace for sundowners, cinema room and outdoor hot tub for 12.

Luxury hotels in Puglia's towns

Don Ferrante

  • In the heart of Lecce, with its Renaissance architecture and Roman heritage, Palazzo Bozzi Corso is a stunning 18th-century palace where grand, high-ceilinged rooms have been given a contemporary makeover – bold colours, modern art, parquet floors – without losing their historic feel. There’s a courtyard plus garden terrace for al fresco breakfasts.
  • Another option in Lecce, La Fiermontina, offers a cool retreat from the city’s heat. Rooms are sleek and minimalist in creamy shades, accessorized with contemporary furniture and bold modern art. Adults-only, it also has a terrace and pool.
  • Also in an historic town, Monopoli, and in an historic monument – a former fort – Don Ferrante sits perched over the Aegean with glorious views. Whitewashed rooms with stone vaulted ceilings and many with sea-views, are furnished in elegant style. And there are plenty of terraces plus a little plunge-pool for relaxation.

Family-friendly luxury hotels

Borgo Egnazia

  • The village-style resort of Borgo Egnazia, close to the beaches of Savelletri, is one of Puglia’s biggest, and most luxurious, family hotels. With a beach club, several pools, tennis courts, a spa and several restaurants, everybody will be happy. Rooms are decadently large in soft whites and creams, with marble bathrooms; the best with private gardens and plunge-pools.
  • Rooms are equally vast at Furnirussi Tenuta, but with a more chic and minimalist style. Wrapped in a fig orchard, it feels like a rural retreat, plus there’s a superb organic-shaped pool, a glass-walled gym and bikes for hire.

Luxury hotels on the coast

There are a clutch of luxury hotels in and around Savelletri, the pretty little seaside resort near Fasano.

La Peschiera

  • Set on the seafront, with a dining terrace perched above the water, La Peschiera is undeniably romantic with white-on-white rooms, pale tiled floors and lots of natural materials. There’s a swimming pool and garden, too.
  • For a bigger, more resort-like hotel – spa, golf course, private beach, salt-water pool – Masseria San Domenico will suit families (with older children) looking for plenty of activities.
  • Masseria Torre Coccaro also offers a private beach that’s skipping distance from this handsome restored farmhouse where rooms are styled with elegant rustic charm. Dining is indoors or al fresco plus there’s an Aveda spa and outdoor pool.
  • The beautiful Masseria Torre Maizza, Rocco Forte's Puglian outpost, is another to consider with its stunning Olga Polizzi designed accommodation and private beach club. This is definitely a place for the active with sailing, windsurfing, cookery classes and a spa on offer.
  • Surrounded by olive groves yet on the edge of charming Polignano a Mare with its pebble-white beach, Borgo Bianco is a contemporary resort with sleek white-on-white rooms with cool tiled floors, balconies or terraces. There’s a spa and indoor and outdoor pools, too.
  • For luxury at an affordable price, check out the boutique Palazzo del Corso on the Gallipoli peninsula. Rooms are quietly elegant in pale colours, some with stunning sea views. There’s a small spa, rooftop plunge pool plus rooftop bar; the latter perfect for sunset drinks.

Still not sure which to book?

The 14 Best Luxury Hotels in Puglia

Masseria San Domenico

Savelletri

One of Puglia’s best hotels offering a luxurious spa and golf course. Rooms and fabulous suites decorated with romance - white washed walls and rich drapes, some have private gardens, hot tubs and balconies. Fantastic selection of restaurants and stunning salt water pool. A heavenly spot.

  • Honeymoons - A sophisticated honeymoon choice- ornate four-poster beds and panoramic views over Puglia, with fine dining and pampering spa.
  • Active Holiday - Lovely grounds and beaches for walking, bikes for rent, tennis courts, golf course, and both indoor and outdoor pools.
  • Sights nearby - Visit the nearby village of Alberobello with its fascinating domed trulli houses.
  • Great walks - Wander the fragrant gardens or take a stroll down to the coast.
from $515 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
Masseria Torre Coccaro

Savelletri

An elegantly restored historic fortified farmhouse, minutes from the sea. Wonderful rooms and suites with rough white washed walls, fine linens and silks - one suite occupies a cave and has its own olive grove and pool. Fabulous regional cuisine, Aveda spa and its very own private beach club.

  • Active Holiday - Explore the rugged countryside on the hotel mountain bikes, head down to the beach, or grab a round of golf.
  • Sights nearby - Head to the nearby Mozzarella Palace for a cheese tasting then down to the local fishing village of Savelletri for seafood.
  • Spa - Fabulous subterranean Aveda Spa with indoor pool, relaxation area and wide range of treatments on offer.
  • Romantic
from $240 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
Masseria Torre Maizza

Fasano

Sophisticated, contemporary hotel with a young, hip vibe. Smart contemporary bedrooms, some with open fires and private pools. Wonderful courtyard bar with Balinese sofas and excellent restaurant overlooking the pool. Irene Forte spa, golf course and private beach clubs.

  • Country Escape - Surrounded by ancient olive groves and fruit orchards, with fantastic walking, produce straight from the farm, and beach club.
  • Romantic Break - A grown up choice with luxurious rooms, wonderful food, and picturesque scenery.
  • Great walks - Explore trulli country on foot or by bike- discover it's ancient olive groves, fruit trees and miles of scrub.
  • Cooking classes - Pick fresh olives and vegetables from the olive groves and use them in yummy Apulian dishes.
from $610 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
Borgo Egnazia

Savelletri (Fasano Brindisi)

A luxurious and stunning village-style resort in Puglia. Rooms and suites, the ultimate in opulence, have creams, marbles and chic accessories, all with enormous bathrooms. Gourmet Pugliese cuisine, pools, spa, beach club, tennis and gardens. Luxury, gourmet and romantic.

  • Families - Range of child friendly fun: complimentary kid's club, tennis, kite-surfing, swimming, beaches, games room, zoo safari nearby
  • Romantic Break - Indulgent spa, architecture reminiscent of a Apulian village, pools, gardens, beaches and gourmet Italian cuisine
  • Foodies - Foodies should not miss the Due Camini restaurant which has been awarded one Michelin Star
  • Swimming Pool - Indoor and Outdoor Pools, plus private pools with the Egnazia Suite and some of the Villas
from $283 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
Hotel Palazzo del Corso

Puglia

A fabulous five-star hotel on Gallipoli's peninsula. Stunning sea views from the rooftop terrace, lively bar, excellent seafood restaurant, and a top of the range wellness centre. Rooms and suites filled with romance have four-poster beds, creamy furnishings, and balconies. Luxurious on all fronts.

  • Spa breaks - Indulge in the wellness centre complete with a rooftop hydrotherapy pool and good range of massages and treatments
  • Local exploring - Perfectly placed in the old town, just a few km from the historical sights and within easy reach of Lecce
  • Foodies - Dine in the fabulous seafood restaurant La Dolce Vita
  • Sights nearby - The Greek Fountain of Gallipoli, Gallipoli Port, Greek Fountain and Gallipoli Castle are all nearby
from $146 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
Don Ferrante

Monopoli

A seriously stylish conversion of an ancient fort overlooking the Adriatic. Individually designed rooms have travertine vaulted ceilings, and elegant furnishings. There's a little rooftop plunge pool for cooling off & a myriad of terraces for sitting and soaking up the stunning views. Total bliss!

  • Sights nearby - You're right in the centre of historic Monopoli, but most of Puglia's attractions can be easily reached by car
  • Restaurant - Serving Puglian specialities, Locanda Don Ferrante is an outdoor restaurant overlooking the sea.
  • Views - Stunning views over the Adriatic Sea
  • Swimming Pool - Small outdoor pool
from $295 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
La Fiermontina

Lecce

A small corner of tranquility in central Lecce. Bearing distinctive local architecture, the hotel's minimalist aesthetic is complimented by pinnacled ceilings and tasteful modern art. Relax by the swimming pool, surrounded by olive groves, and enjoy some delicious Pugliese cuisine.

  • Total relaxation - A modern retreat in the heart of town - an urban idyll
  • Romantic Break - A great escape to take a loved one
  • Sights nearby - Within five minutes walk of Basilica of Santa Croce, Roman Amphitheatre and Duomo Square.
  • Local markets - Browse the local markets of Lecce.
from $347 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
Furnirussi Tenuta

Puglia

The stunning Furnirussi Tenuta is set in an organic fig orchard in sleepy Carpignano Salentino. Expect chic, contemporary rooms and suites as well as a superb outdoor pool-perfect for a refreshing dip! Great cocktails and fab food at 'Il Ficheto' restaurant. A luxury country retreat.

  • Foodies - Fantastic food- with a most of the veggies coming straight from the farm and a focus on fresh and seasonal produce.
  • Total relaxation - A spa, gorgeous cuisine and beautiful countryside; the perfect mix for completely unwinding.
  • Families - With plenty of space for the kids to run around, and a pampering spa for mum and dad!
  • Great walks - Wander through the picturesque fig farm admiring the views and sampling the produce!
from $331 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
La Peschiera

Savelletri

A stunning five-star hotel, set right on the Adriatic Sea. The luxury design and magnificent location combine to create a tranquil atmosphere that is perfect for a relaxing seaside break. Enjoy sumptuous seafood and staggering sea vistas at the hotel's restaurant. The embodiment of serenity.

  • Honeymoons - The majestic seaside setting and superb suites make it perfect for honeymooners.
  • Beach Life - Right on the sea with exclusive access to a beach and a relaxed seaside vibe.
  • Sights nearby - Visit the stunning historic UNESCO protected Trulli of Alberobello.
  • Restrictions on children - Adult only.
from $421 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
Don Totu

Puglia (San Cassiano LE)

Don Totu offers elegant boutique B&B accommodation in San Cassiano. This elegant 18th-century palazzo comes with a lovely luscious garden. Bask in the sun by the pool and enjoy a cocktail or homemade ice cream. Head off by bike or foot on a tour of the area. A rejuvenating stay!

  • Romantic Break - Beautiful and private accommodation with a quiet atmosphere-perfect for a romantic retreat
  • Total relaxation - Unwind in style at this historic palazzo, lounge by the pool or unwind in the hammam area
  • Cooking classes - Join in with one of the cooking classes to learn how to whip up your favourite Italian dishes
  • Opulent
from $263 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
Castello di Ugento

Puglia (73059 Ugento LE )

A magnificent castle hotel in a lovely sleepy town by the sea, combining old-world elegance with contemporary sophistication. Expect restored frescoes rubbing shoulders with modern art and artisanal pieces. The food is outstanding and guests can learn some tricks at the in-house cookery school.

  • Romantic Break - This charming palazzo is ideal for couples on a romantic getaway
  • Sights nearby - The cathedral towers over an elegant square and Byzantine and Baroque churches can be seen down tiny alleyways
  • Restrictions on children - Children over the age of 10 can be accommodated in extra beds in two of the rooms
  • Restaurant - The superb Il Tempo Nuovo serves contemporary, gourmet Pugliese cuisine.
from $389 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Palazzo Bozzi Corso

Lecce

This 18th-century palazzo has retained its original grandeur. The elegant rooms feature high ceilings, fireplaces and simple modern furniture with french windows overlooking the palazzo courtyard. The contemporary artworks are a nice touch. Historically rich and very central.

  • Local exploring - Lecce is steeped in rich Puglian culture, step out the door and explore the city by foot
  • Foodies - There is no shortage of fine foods and wines to be sampled in Lecce
  • Sights nearby - There is an abundance of Renaissance architecture to see in Lecce, particularly the Santa Croce church and Lecce Cathedral
  • Cooking classes - Your hosts offer to arrange cooking classes with a private local chef
from $463 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
Castle Elvira

Puglia (Puglia)

A gorgeous new boutique hotel set in Puglian countryside just north of Lecce. Luxurious suites feature top-notch linens, marble bathrooms and dazzling interiors. There are stunning living spaces, a private cinema, a roof terrace, 3 pools, a restaurant, a rooftop bar and a hot tub for 12!

  • Designer - Castle Elivra is a stunning combination of period details seamlessly mixed with contemporary design
  • Exclusive use - Castle Elvira is available on an exclusive use basis October to March sleeping up to 22 people
  • Local exploring - Situated just north of Lecce and with the whole of Puglia within easy driving distance
  • Total relaxation - The perfect place to kick back and relax amid luxurious surrounds
from $472 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Written by Helen Pickles

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