Renovated in 2014 by Goedele Desmet of Brussels-based Bob 361 Architects, this is a playful, contemporary reimagining of a traditional masseria.

Inside, all rooms have eclectic furniture, with Scandinanvian-inspired pieces by Hay and Muuto but also a few carefully curated from Ikea. This imaginative mix contributes to the villas' ultra-modern but poetic appearance.

We love the abundant natural light, the gleaming polished concrete floors, the whitewashed interior stonework, the arched walls, the recessed staircases, and the windows that come in all shapes and sizes. The architecture is highlighted perfectly by cool pieces of contemporary art, neon signage that tells you exactly where you are, and an unexpected sculpted cow cabinet, reminding you that this home has a sense of humor.

From its two roof terraces, you have 180° views of the Adriatic, and from the vast kitchen window, a view of large gardens filled with olive and orange trees, and the landscape beyond.

And last but not least, there's the extra-large swimming pool, with two outdoor showers, an outdoor kitchen and a barbecue on its L-shaped terraces. A great space for unwinding on warm summer days.

This villa for rent in Puglia is wonderfully peaceful but also located close to all local amenities. A great find in an increasingly popular region.

This villa for rent in Puglia has a living room, two bedrooms, a bathroom and a large live-in kitchen with dining area and sliding doors onto the terrace. The master bedroom has a double bed, and a second has two singles that can be arranged as a double if needed.

ADDITIONAL FEATURES

Heating, indoor fireplace, towels and linens, hairdryer, parking. The windows are designed for natural ventilation, and all are fitted with mosquito mesh. Concrete flooring provides natural cooling.

AROUND

The house is close to the beach (3km), the town, supermarket, bars and restaurants. In fact there's a small bar only 250m from the house in the village of Serranova. The natural reserve of Torre Guaceto, which is only 300m from the house, is highly recommended.

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. The medieval villages of San Vito dei Normanni, Specchiolla and Carovigno are close by.

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-Serranova, Brindisi, Puglia, Italy. Nearest airport: Brindisi

BEST TIME TO VISIT: Spring through fall