Would you like to spend the summer staying at an Apulian farmhouse, close to the sea, in a welcoming, relaxing atmosphere, far from the hustle and bustle of everyday life? If that might have seemed a quite ‘impossible mission’ just a few years ago, today, instead, the only difficulty is choosing in which farmhouse to sojourn, there being so many possibilities – one better than the other, at that. We have selected 4 farmhouses to rent on online, on Urlaubsarchitektur I Holidayarchitecture. Once surrounded by vast expanses of meadows and plantations, the masserie (i.e. typical Apulian farms, Editor’s Note) were still employed by landowners and their laborers during the summer until a few years ago. Today many of these structures have been renovated and converted into small luxury dwellings. Through skilled interventions of renovation of the original architecture, they still maintain their period charm although featuring all the comforts of our age.
Such is the case with Masseria Moroseta (see pictures above), a few km from Ostuni. Surrounded by a 5 ha area of Mediterranean maquis scattered with century-old olive trees, the masseria features a classic whitewashed structure with flat roofs, inner patio and a big, beautiful pool in the middle of the garden. Bedrooms are furnished with design and ethnic handicraft pieces. Guests are offered the opportunity to attend yoga courses and cooking lessons. The sea is just a few minutes’ walk away.
Recently renovated, run by Caroline Groszer with passion and sensitivity, Masseria Alchimia (see above and opening photos) is located in the Contrada Fascianello in Fasano, in the province of Brindisi. The original building has been refurbished by employing exclusively locally sourced materials. Guests may choose between classic bedrooms or mini flats, decorated with beautiful design pieces which the owner loves to switch almost daily (she collaborates with an art gallery). Depending on the chosen accommodation, guests can enjoy either a solarium or a private patio, each one with a stunning view on the garden and olive trees groves.
Run by the same proprietor, the Palazzina Alchimia (see photo above) is the ideal accommodation for anyone who desires to experience a stay at an ancient 1700s Apulian home. Located in Fasano’s historic center, the two-story building includes two bedrooms and a terrace overlooking the sea. The stone staircase and floors are original, creating a stunning juxtaposition with the design furnishings. The renovation works carefully preserved the edifice’s original structure, to which contemporary details have been added in order to make the stay more comfortable.
Nestled in a courtyard in the historic center of Nardò, in the Salento area, there is a little architectural masterpiece. The owners – an American couple, deeply in love with Apulia – have named it Il Cubo (i.e. The Cube, Editor’s Note – see pictures above) because of its unmistakable shape. Just like in a small open space retreat for two, the kitchen and living areas have been all arranged on the ground floor. A spectacular wood and iron structure sustains an open sleeping loft where the queen-size bed is located, giving the impression of being almost floating in mid-air. Everything has been thought out down to the smallest detail, to make the most of the available space. The ideal lodging for a twosome stay – complete with a small roof terrace where to enjoy delicious dinners.
Opening photo: A TERRACE IN THE MASSERIA ALCHIMIA, APULIA, ITALY
