Borgo Silentio

A Hideaway in the Heel of Italy

One of the features that makes Puglia stand out from the rest of Italy is the trullo, a conical dwelling straight out of a fairy tale. Trulli are constructed from limestone boulders and feature signature pyramidal, domed or conical roofs made from corbelled limestone slabs. It's a building technique that has endured the passage of time, and this estate features five of these ancient cones, as well as an imposing 18th-century masseria, or farmhouse.

This complex of structures is located on a peaceful acre of land, filled with olive groves, almond trees, flowers and spices. It's available for rent in its entirety or as two separate units: the Masseria Silentio plus Trullo Castelluccio (sleeping 10 guests in total), and the Trullo Silentio (sleeping up to six guests). Each property has its own pool, olive grove, and independent entrance.

The two units have been extensively restored, inside and out, with a new lamia added in 2017, mimicking traditional style. Interiors are decorated in authentic Puglian style, an appealing blend of rustic and antique, with roughhewn stone walls and slab flooring, arches and nooks. We love the stone barrel vaulted ceiling in the new lamia, and the gardens, with their generously sized pools and golden stone terraces for outdoor dining. 

Read an interview with the owners in our Stories section here and a short history of the trullo here.

AROUND

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, starting just 10km from the property. 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 is less than 5km away. Described by Lonely Planet as "a pearly white tiara", it extends across three hills, with a cathedral centerpiece, and boasts a great selection of bars and restaurants in its legendary all-white center. (Make sure to check out the owners' store while you're there.)

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.

There is no public transportation locally, so a car is required to reach this villa for rent in Italy.

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.