Villa Ostuni

White Town, White House

This newly restored house in Puglia is brought to us by Dutch design company Studiotoff, whose designs combine Scandinavian simplicity with creature comforts and livable luxury. It's an intriguing mix of traditional Italian design with modern edginess, a white house with stone walls and archways that has been brought up to date with an unadorned minimalism. 

We love the large, paneled windows, the richly colored bathroom tiles, the expansive, sculptural pool with its marble terrace, and the subtly etched concrete tiles that cover the floors both inside and out. And we also love the location, just minutes from the historic white town of Ostuni.

This is a home to indulge yourself in. Unwind by the pool, cook up a feast in the open-concept kitchen, and dine al fresco under the stars, surrounded by ancient olive groves, as well as fig, almond and citrus trees.

This villa for rent in Italy has one large bedroom with en-suite bathroom, and a smaller bedroom across the hall. The living room has an open fireplace, and there's a chef's kitchen in the enclosed veranda, as well as an outdoor grill and a large picnic table. 

If you want to elevate your experience, head for the rooftop with its partial ocean views. Alternatively, spend all day by the elegant pool.

Around

This villa for rent in Italy is accessed via a country road and an extra-long driveway, but it's only five minutes from the heart of Ostuni and 15 minutes from the nearest beach. 

There is much to see in Puglia, the elegant heel in Italy's boot. As the region has a long coastline, there are many beaches to explore, both sandy and rocky. Begin with Torre Guaceto, and don't miss the Grotte di Castellana, an extensive karst cave system, that is one of Puglia's most popular attractions.

The white city of Ostuni sits high above the olive groves of the lower Murgia and has been described as a pearly white tiara that extends across three hills, with a Gothic cathedral centerpiece and a great selection of bars and restaurants in its legendary whitewashed heart. Other towns to visit include Ceglie Messapica, Cisternino, Alberobello, Martina Franca, Locorotondo, and Grottaglie with its beautiful ceramics. And don't forget to sample the region's famous olive oils and wines. A car is recommended to make the most of the region.

Location

Ostuni, Puglia, Italy. Nearest airports: Brindisi (40 mins, 35km) and Bari (one hour, 80km).

Best Time to Visit

Year-round, but July to October for best weather. Please note that the pool is closed December 1 to March 1.