Il Giardino Grande, Parabita, southern Puglia, Italy - Explore & Book
"The white-washed country homes called ‘masseria’ rise above the silvery olive groves of southern Puglia. In recent years, a trend has emerged of renovating these gorgeous old piles, many dating back centuries, into atmospheric boutique hideaways. The stately Il Giardino Grande is both part of this trend, and something new. It was once an aristocrat’s summer house on Parabita’s rural outskirts, a short, bouncing bicycle ride from the sun-warmed beaches of the Ionian Coast. Now its well-groomed grounds have been lovingly restored and updated. Sibling owners Valentina and Marco have poured their experience with Mandarin Oriental and BVLGARI Hotels into this cosy six-bedroom oasis in Salento’s sun-soaked hinterland. It’s this level of warm hospitality and sophisticated service that sets it apart – making it a ‘dimora’, or ‘abode’, rather than just another masseria. Everything here feels relaxed yet exclusive: ideal for a couple’s retreat or a family getaway with particular appeal for those with older children. Each room is unique; breakfast is served in a Secret Garden (just follow the smell of fresh pastries); Valentina and her staff have loads of brilliant suggestions for the surrounding area; and cocktails are served poolside as you watch the shimmering sunsets. Highs Gorgeous rooms with design-led furnishings, warm colour palettes, and high, airy ceilings Besides the sizeable pool, the hotel has gorgeous sprawling gardens full of little pockets to discover, including a converted chapel The level of hospitality will knock your socks off – they’ll recommend and book restaurants, discuss the local culture and more while you sip spritzes by the pool Excellently situated for discovering the blissful, long white-sand beaches of the Ionian Coast Gallipoli, set on a limestone island with a historic old town, is only 10 minutes away Lows There is no dinner service, but Parabita’s restaurants are an under-ten-minute cycle or car ride away No kids under 12: a high for many!" - Handpicked by our hotel experts
