Masseria Montenapoleone is a boutique, agritourism hotel in Pezze Di Greco in Puglia. Fashionably rustic chic and magical, Long Travel guests never want to leave this extraordinary slice of rural life.
Only about five minutes, by car, from some of Puglia’s loveliest sandy beaches, Masseria Montenapoleone hides behind a majestically proportioned gateway, in an unrivalled rural location. The long driveway track, lined with trees and shrubs, has olive trees on both sides, as far as the eye can see. At the end is the magnificently imposing, gleaming white Masseria Montenapoleone, with its highlights of pinky-terracotta and grey, and a strip of bright blue sea, on the horizon. You immediately know that you have arrived in a special and unique place.
Supremely private, set in acres of its own organic farmland, Masseria Montenapoleone’s terraces and pathways are as nature intended, hewn out of the rock and uneven, at times. The beautiful, lush gardens teem with caper plants, fruit trees, hedges of huge prickly pears, walls of upside-down ones, striking bougainvillaea, oleander and so many native plants. There is an ancient walled orangerie with the original stone irrigation channels and so much outside space for only twenty rooms that Long Travel guests staying at Masseria Montenapoleone are spoiled. The glorious pool at Masseria Montenapoleone is on an elevated terrace, with views towards the sea on one side, and towards the famous Murgia ridge on the other.
Masseria Montenapoleone is unique. A typical example of a Pugliese masseria, the owners’ intention has always been to keep it as original as possible, so it is not over-renovated and modern demands are catered for very cleverly. Its chic rustic style is so refreshingly opposite to the ubiquitous modern minimalism, with straight lines and not a thing out of place. Masseria Montenapoleone has a huge personality, with something to make you smile in every corner. Literally full of interesting bits and pieces, the owners’ passion for local crafts and ancient agricultural traditions has woven a complex and sublimely successful tapestry of treen, old typewriters, sewing machines, birdcages, shoe lasts, lamps made from watering cans or coffee pots or waffle irons. It is “busy” and absolutely eclectic, but it really works. You will be transported to a secret and fascinating world when you land at the Masseria Montenapoleone. You will marvel at the rustic ephemera and objets d’art and smile at the ingenious and quirky uses invented for everyday things. Being surrounded by such things oozes a kind of nostalgic comfort and you will not want to leave.
The original cavern-like stables of Masseria Montenapoleone were cut out of the rock, and they are now the incredible breakfast room and small lounge area, which also extends into the lovely terrace, with star vaulting, stone floors and huge glass doors. Breakfasts are a treat, with all sorts of local delicacies, jams, fruit picked from the garden and homemade goodies. Nearby, is the ever-popular barbecue and country kitchen for guests, fully equipped to enjoy making your own light meals or snacks. You will feel quite at home, which is Masseria Montenapoleone’s intention.
Near the pool is the large glazed restaurant/dining room, where lunch and dinner are served, when available, and where cookery lessons can often be observed creating hilarity (as well as good food, of course). Book to join in, if you can – they are great fun. The soft sofas to sink into, on the terrace outside, are perfect for a relaxing drink, before or after dinner.
Staying at Masseria Montenapoleone is a magical experience like no other. As they say themselves, it lies “somewhere between magic and forgotten”. We at Long Travel agree. We love it and never want to leave.