Set on the shores of the Adriatic and shrouded by ancient olive trees, Masseria Torre Maizza captures and heart and soul of Puglia. This 16th-century masseria has seen generations of farmers carefully tend the estate’s orchards, vineyards and groves, pressing the fragrant olive oil this region is famous for. Cicadas buzz in the bushes and the waves gently break on the beaches, the waters teeming with startlingly fresh fish and seafood.
Very little has changed over the centuries in this quiet corner of Puglia, yet at Masseria Torre Maizza an extensive renovation has seen the old farmhouse transform into a spectacular coastal retreat. Retaining all of its former charm, the historic building now offers a more refined, elegant experience combining heritage architecture, thoughtful design and an unforgettable sense of place.
‘The close link with the beauty of the territory can be seen in every single design element,’ explains General Manager Franco Girasoli. The farmhouse still features its original lime-washed walls, vaulted ceilings and atmospheric tower—now home to the stunning Presidential Suite. A region renowned for its natural materials and traditional craftmanship, many local techniques have been incorporated into the interior design by Rocco Forte Hotels’ Director of Design Olga Polizzi. Pietra del trani (Trani stone) creates cool, smooth flooring, whilst traditional plates and tiles handmade by the artisans of Grottaglie’s Quartiere delle Ceramiche lend an authentic charm.
Capturing the abundance of the area, Masseria Torre Maizza’s restaurants and bars honour Puglia’s famously bold flavours. Described by Chef Fulvio Pierangelini as ‘a generous, feminine cuisine that smells of family’, the tantalising menus will feature the very best local ingredients. Wrapped in ivy and fragrant roses, Franco Girasoli recommends the garden pergola as the perfect place to sit and savour the hotel’s signature dishes, or alternatively, soak up the sunset from the rooftop bar at aperitivo hour.
Those looking for more active pursuits will find an array of beguiling landscapes to discover. Sunbathe on the private sandy beach, take in the dappled sunlight on a horse-riding trail, or enjoy a few rounds of golf on the executive 9-hole course. And for those looking to really uncover local life, Puglia’s whitewashed hilltop towns and iconic trulli houses are mere moments away.
To experience an authentic taste of Puglia, book a stay at Masseria Torre Maizza from May 2019. Email reservations.torremaizza@roccofortehotels.com or call +39 06 32 888 890.
Paris is always a good idea. Except, perhaps, when it’s hosting the Olympic Summer Games, and the usual tourist throng looks set to multiply almost prohibitively. Of course, the Games are exciting, but if wading through crowds feels like a marathon effort, try a cultural relay around one of these stunning European cities instead.
The name Bernardo Buontalenti might not mean much to those outside of Florence, but it should. A prestigious Florentine architect and artist favoured by the Medici, he is also widely credited with inventing gelato. This frozen delight is now as synonymous with Italy as pizza and is deeply intertwined with Florence’s heritage. Take a tour of the city’s most celebrated gelaterias, curated by the expert concierge team at Hotel Savoy.
As the gentle glow of each ornate chandelier begins to dim, a hush descends upon the audience before an all-consuming world of tragedy and triumph unfolds. Both exhilarating and deeply moving, a night at the opera has the distinct power to evoke emotion, while offering a unique insight into a perhaps unfamiliar city.
Journey through Europe’s symphony of unmissable opera houses, each steeped in history and grandeur.
