Villa Cardo

Architect Andrew Trotter Designs a Puglian Villa in Harmony with History's Footsteps

Taking its cue from the the dazzling white town of Ostuni nearby, this luxury villa for rent in Puglia is in harmony with history's footsteps throughout this region.

Part of a collection of historic homes (Moroseta Villas) designed and restored by designer and publisher Andrew Trotter, it's a quietly luxurious example of traditional Pugliese architecture that has endured since the middle ages. 

Using traditional building methods and materials, Trotter has created a place of simplicity, calm and comfort that defines this type of Mediterranean design.

Set against an arid landscape of olive groves, the property is composed of a series of levels, staircases and arches, and crafted in bright dynamic spaces designed to inspire.

The muted minimalist design complements the property's pastoral  landscapes, with a relaxed and inviting air of rustic sophistication and simple pleasures.

Read more about the terrazzo sinks in our Journal here.

Nestled within over two acres of olive and almond groves, this luxury villa for rent in Puglia was designed in the local architectural vernacular of traditional Pugliese homes. Whitewashed limestone exteriors and interiors keep it simple, with stone flooring and a subtle palette of minimalist furnishings and decor that emphasize the connection to the land. 

The main floor includes a living room and dining area with a fully-equipped kitchen. The master bedroom has a private veranda and garden access with an outdoor bath, and there are two additional double bedrooms with a shared bath here. There is a media room one level below and a separate “lamia” country house, that sleeps two additional guests. 

The outdoor areas are designed to take advantage of the beautiful Puglian countryside, with areas to both entertain and relax. Surrounding the pool, there is an outdoor lounge area, a kitchen with BBQ and wood-fired oven, an alfresco dining terrace, and above the main house, a roof terrace with lovely views out to sea.

EXPERIENCES

As an added extra, ask about booking a day trip on your hosts' Riva 51” Turbo Rosso, Margherita Moroseta II—a restored classic Italian motorboat from the 1990s. At 15 meters long, it can easily accommodate eight guests for swimming, sunbathing or just taking in the views, far away from the crowds. It leaves from Gallipoli in the morning, traveling along the west coast of Puglia for the afternoon. While on board, you'll dine on local produce, focaccia and chilled wine. If you'd like to linger on board for longer, book a two-day trip. The boat has two double cabins and two bathrooms.

Optional services include: breakfast €25 p.p./per day, lunch €45 p.p./per day + €150 chef fee, dinner €70 p.p./per day + € 150 chef fee, daily cleaning €175 per day, yoga classes, personal trainer, massage, and car service all on request. 

AROUND

Within a few kilometers of the town of Carovigno and less than ten minutes drive to the sea, this villa in the Salento Peninsula region lies at the midpoint of Italy’s heel between both the Adriatic and Ionian Seas with lovely beaches on either side. 

Come for the amazing summer food festival in Carovigno at the end of July where the very best of the region is on offer and the Ceglie Messapica food fest in August and the d’Ostuni la blanche market on Saturdays. From Michelin starred restaurants to simple cafes and shops, the area is a foodie mecca. 

The protected nature reserve and beaches of Torre Guaceto is within fifteen minutes as are the medieval villages of San Vito dei Normanni, Specchiolla and Carovigno. The port town of Brindisi (and final stop along the famed Appian Way) lies 20 minutes southeast while the stunning Baroque city of Lecce, known as the Florence of the South, is within 30 minutes. 

The lovely UNESCO port town of Otranto and the Ionian seaside town of Gallipoli are worth a day trip drive while the White City of Ostuni, Martina Franca, Alberobello and the Valle d’Itria are all within a short drive.

LOCATION

Carovigno, Puglia, Italy. Nearest Airport: Brindisi Airport (20 minutes)

BEST TIME TO VISIT: Year round