Whitewashed and breezy, this restored farm in Puglia’s enchanting Apulian valley offers simple luxury. Set on a gentle rise in open fields studded with olive trees, it has views out to sea and features sturdy stone walls that now embrace elegant modern furnishings with an emphasis on comfort. Picture windows, slide-away walls and bright, open doorways hung with pretty billowing linens open onto vivid terraces and an infinity pool set in the sunshine under the olives’ canopy.
The clean white lines of contemporary new construction combine with sturdy historic blocs of sand-colored stone to create this bright villa for rent in Italy. A restored rural farmhouse in the Apulian valley named for its heavenly qualities, the home offers views out to sea. It’s set in a classic Mediterranean landscape filled with olive trees and fragrant shrubs, and has multiple whitewashed terraces for lounging and dining, some shaded and others sundrenched, and all surrounded by organic herb, fruit and vegetable gardens available for guests’ use.
The owners created the villa as a place where time stands still, and every minute is precious. The home’s entry follows this vision, opening first into a welcoming stone sitting room with panoramic views, a historic hearth and sweet niches now used for decor. A modern kitchen follows, all stainless steel and sleek, yet built into ancient walls, with a light-flooded set of French doors opening to the cottage garden. Outside, there’s a fully-equipped outdoor kitchen and a super spacious alfresco dining area across from the pool under a partially shaded terrace.
Four bedrooms and bathrooms sleep eight comfortably, with one bedroom dubbed “deluxe” for its king-sized mattress and private courtyard with an outdoor shower space. All bedrooms have crisp white linens and sleek modern furnishings, and bathrooms are set within them and private, with cool modern sinks, shelves and fixtures.
What sets this villa for rent in Italy apart is its whitewashed outdoor spaces. Vivid white, multileveled, and neatly landscaped, the stairs and walkways surrounding the home lead out to the poolside, where a dark bottomed infinity pool soaks up the abundant sunlight and reflects the deep blue Italian skies.
AROUND
Located in the heart of the Itria Valley region, Puglia’s enchanting hill country best known for the iconic trulli homes, villa La Celeste is within walking distance of the magical white city of Ostuni, alive with sights, cafes, bars and postcard-pretty streets. A five-minute drive puts you on the waterfront of the Adriatic Sea, where clear waters and intimate, rocky coves are perfect for sunbathing and swimming.
The natural park of Guaceto is nearby as well, offering unspoiled nature, footpaths, and forests. Beyond Ostuni, the mythical towns of Cisternino, Locorotondo, and Alberbello, all with their sweet trulli and lively artisans, cafes and boutiques, are easily accessible. And the well-heeled port villages of Polignano a Mare and Monopoli are also a quick drive away.
LOCATION
Carovigno, Puglia, Italy. Nearest airports: Brindisi (25km); Bari (60km).
BEST TIME TO VISIT: Spring, early summer, and autumn.