You’ve probably seen it in a daydream before. Galatina’s Masseria Mò in Puglia’s Province of Salento is the perfect example of a modern Italian masseria. These farmstead estates dot the countryside of Puglia and offer an escape from the chaos for a bit of simple indulgence in a gorgeous atmosphere. It’s here at Michael Vieh’s boutique hotel, Masseria Mò, that peace and quiet is paired with an impeccable design sense for what the owner and creator deems a true oasis. Inaugurated in July of 2017, Vieh explains: “the idea was born from my passion for Italy and the desire for a lifestyle change. The name, Mò, meaning “now” in local dialect, indicates exactly what I wanted for myself and that which I hope my guests will come to experience within this small oasis. Forget the past, don’t worry about the future, and enjoy the present”.
Just like that, after 20 years of working as a manager in a multinational corporation, Michael made the simple decision to transform his life. Packing up for Italy, he settled in Galatina, in the southern region of Puglia. As a frequent traveler, Vieh’s soft spot for the Bel Paese, a place he once called home for 5 years, proved too strong to resist. It was here he learned to discover, appreciate, and acquire the world-famous Made in Italy design.
You could say it was love at first sight. Michael was enamored not only by the furniture, but by the entire Brianza area, known for its manufacturing of stunning furnishings. You might even say he was head over heels when he filled an entire container to haul back to Sydney on his departure. However, it wasn’t long thereafter that Michael’s kindling desire to find his own home to renovate in Italy was met with the final spark: a photo on the beach in Puglia’s Baia di Porto Selvaggio.
The rest is history, when Vieh found himself as the owner of a local masseria dating back to the late 1800’s. Together with Australian architect Hans Freymadl, noted for his minimalist style and attention to detail, Michael transformed the masseria into a gorgeous hotel with 5 comfortable rooms.
A testament to the past, the old structure is developed around a central garden from which fruit trees, immersed among the lush green of the palm trees and olives. It is an homage to its location and its construction, combining conservational needs with the functional and technological through natural or reused materials, while drawing inspiration from local techniques.
The result is a warm and welcoming hideaway, open year round, emanating both elegance and ease. Nothing is overlooked here at the Masseria Mò, from the services offered (including the pool and experiences like cooking, ceramic, and yoga lessons to name a few) to the local, tailor-made furnishings that complete the interiors.
Opening Photo: MASSERIA MÒ, BOUTIQUE HOTEL IN SALENTO
