Masseria Montelauro

Sublime, sophisticated converted farm, with chic white décor and excellent food, set in olive groves near coastal Otranto

These gleaming white, squared-off buildings, set among acres of lawns and fruit trees, are a 19th-century farm complex that once housed 20 families. The thoughtful conversion has preserved all the building’s features: barrel-vaulted ceilings, thick walls, cool interiors. The only new addition is an elegant, cream-stone infinity pool. Surrounding the the grassy courtyards are 29 tranquil rooms, the best with their own access to the gardens.

Décor is all white, with Moroccan silver kettles and huge trays in the reception, and snow-white Pugliese embroidery in the rooms. The effect is sophisticated, light and wonderfully soothing. Cactus, olive trees, vines and date palms dot the grounds, surrounded by rural farmland. In the vaulted dining room, delicious local produce is served for lunch and dinner. If the peace gets too much, you’re 2km from Otranto, one of Puglia’s most popular coastal towns, with cobbled lanes, boutiques, bars and a yacht-bobbing marina; kids will love the castle and sandy beach nearby.

Highs

• Serene setting in ancient farmland
• Lush lawns, tranquil outdoor sitting areas and delightful pool
• Grown-up dazzling white décor with beautiful Moroccan and Pugliese details
• Well placed to visit lovely Otranto and some superb coastline
• Great food made from local produce

Lows

• One set menu for dinner - and it's not cheap
• It’s a quiet, subdued kind of place – not for those seeking somewhere lively
• In August, however, the pool can get very busy
• The Salentine peninsula – the tip of Italy’s heel – gets scorched in summer, and lacks the rich hinterland of northern Puglia