Masseria Torre Maizza, A Rocco Forte Hotel

"Puglia is famous for its masserie: ancient fortified farmhouses set a smidgeon back from the Adriatic coast, many now transformed into lush hotels. This one, in masseria-filled Fasano, between Bari and Brindisi, and on the waterfront below the pretty Valle d’Itria, has long been one of the best. But Rocco Forte’s 2019 revamp of the 16th- century property has taken things up a notch. The 28 rooms and 12 suites, designed by Olga Polizzi, take their lead from the olive grove out back—all pale green doorframes and more acid-toned furnishings for an upmarket take on rustic luxe. Outside is a vine-fronded pool, verdant, palm-studded grounds, and the hotel’s nine-hole golf course, melting into the flat coastal landscape. Set a little back from the sea, there are flashes of blue on property; better views (and stunning sunsets) from the rooftop Bougainvillea Bar; plus a private club on the public beach, a few minutes away and reached by hotel shuttle." - Julia Buckley