Luxury Italian retreat blends traditional architecture with modern comforts

For most of us, those lazy, unstructured days of the summer holidays are already nothing more than a sweet but hazy memory. It’s enough to make anyone start planning their next trip – or, even better, searching for a faraway retreat where that holiday mindset can stretch on and on.

And as far as holiday retreats go, few are quite as easy on the eye as Tenuta Masseriola.

Right down in the heel of the boot that is Italy, you’ll find the beautiful region of Puglia (that’s pronounced poo-lee-uh).

Along the hundreds of kilometres of picturesque Mediterranean coastline, you’re met with whitewashed villages clinging to the sides of hilltops, buildings and towns steeped in history, and a smorgasbord of culinary delights, all served with genuine southern Italian hospitality.

So where to base yourself? Sitting privately a few kilometres from the village of Carovigno is Tenuta Masseriola, a luxurious and serene retreat.

The exclusive holiday home, which sleeps up to eight people, has recently hit the market, listed for €1.5 million ($2.48 million) through Moroseta Homes.

From the outside, the striking villa is designed as a traditional limestone trullo; a round stone house with a conical roof, which is unique to the region. But step inside and you’re met with something quite different.

Crisp, whitewashed walls and ceilings set the scene for a modern interior, with rustic touches beautifully mingling with contemporary fittings.

It’s a stunning blend of old and new, all designed for the enjoyment of the Italian good life.

The villa features four light-filled bedrooms, each with an en suite and a sitting area.

Connecting it all is the main living room and modern kitchen, with an adjoining dining room that benefits from the height of that conical roof.

The stone ceiling arches high above, adding plenty of volume, while the wide space ensures there’s room for everyone around the table.

Outside, an alluring saltwater pool stretches between the olive trees, with an adjoining terrace set up with sun loungers.

The undercover al fresco area features a built-in sink and bench, plus a dining setting just made for good food and wine, and catch-ups with friends that stretch well into the evening.

It’s a property designed for comfort through impeccable architecture and design.

The spaces are adorned with carefully curated and hand-picked local furniture, which is included in the sale. And there are all the contemporary creature comforts you need, like heating and cooling, and a security system.

“Tenuta Masseriola stands out for its unique combination of historical charm and modern comfort,” says Moroseta Homes managing partner Alessio Manca.

“Meticulously preserved architecture, combined with luxurious amenities, creates an unparalleled experience for residents and guests.

It’s all wrapped up in the wide open spaces of the Puglia countryside, and from every room you’re treated to views out over the red soil and eight hectares of olive groves.

Days spent here are firmly at a holiday pace. You can wake up slowly, and amble barefoot into the kitchen as you soak in the serenity with your morning cuppa.

The stone terrace is a beautiful spot to ease into the day with a gentle yoga flow, or you could choose to do little more than set up camp on a sunbathing lounge and gaze out at the wide open spaces and unique landscape all day.

Come early evening, sunsets are best enjoyed from the pool, with a glass of local wine.

There’s also plenty nearby to explore. You could take an amble through one of the vineyards, join a cooking class, or visit the charming neighbouring towns.

The ocean is only seven kilometres down the road, and Brindisi Airport is less than 30 minutes away.

“The villa is located in a region known for its landscapes, food, seaside and rich cultural heritage,” Manca says.

“The nearby villages offer a taste of authentic Italian life, with charming markets, historic sites, vineyards and welcoming people.

“Visitors are attracted to the area for its tranquillity and the opportunity to immerse themselves in the beauty of the Apulian countryside.”

And as for those times you have to return to reality, the villa attracts weekly holiday rental yields from €4500 (about $7400) in low season, up to €12,500 (about $20,700) in the summer.