As we left, down the drive lined with fig trees and rosemary shrubs, my son said "I’m going to miss this place". With its scented jasmine-filled gardens, lake-style pool and room to roam, this 5-star farm hotel will inspire similar reactions from everyone, from couples to families.
Set on a 2,500-tree fig plantation in the beautiful area of Grecia Salentina, 2km from the small town of Serrano and an easy drive from sandy beaches, the modern white-washed building echoes the grand old farmhouses of the Puglian countryside. As it was purpose-built, you get a lot more space than in many other rural hotels, and all 25 rooms have sitting areas plus a private garden or terrace screened by greenery. The huge pool is notably special - lined with ground marble that's smooth underfoot, with a gently shelving end for children and rocks like islands for basking and playing. There’s also a spa, a gym, a playground (discreetly tucked away so as not to disturb other guests), and an excellent restaurant serving inventive takes on local cuisine.
Highs
- A great location near historic towns, and only 16km from the white-sand beach at Baia dei Turchi
- Exceptional, creative food rooted in the Salentine tradition - the chef previously worked with Alain Ducasse
- A glorious, 1000 sq.m lake-style pool
- Bright, light and spacious rooms with private outdoor areas and space for 2 extra beds
- Works equally well for couples and families, with plenty of space for both
Lows
- Renovations are planned for 2025, so the spaces may look a little different
- You'll need a car to make the most of the area, though shuttle buses run to the coast in high season
- It's a drive to other restaurants if you fancy a change of scene
- Some may find the neutral colour scheme and boxy furnishings a little bland
- There's a charge to use the spa
Best time to go
Puglia is at its finest from May to June and in September, when the weather is balmy and you can avoid the crowds. July and August are extremely busy, with packed beaches, but there are plenty of festivals in nearby towns. The hotel is closed from October to May.
Our top tips
Don't miss the wonderful small town of Galatina, which has the incredible frescoed church of Santa Catarina.
Location
Furnirussi Tenuta is 2km from the small town of Serrano, in the Grecia Salentina region of Puglia, southern Italy. It's 16km from the coast.
By Air:
Fly into Brindisi (60km) or Bari (180km). Click on the links below for a list of airlines.
From the Airport
Transfers can be arranged from either airport, but the rural location means you'll probably want to hire a car - see our car rental recommendations. There's plenty of parking on site.
Detailed directions will be sent to you when you book through i-escape.com.
More on getting to Italy and getting around
Airports:
- Brindisi 60.0 km BDS
- Bari 180.0 km BRI
Other:
- Beach 16.0 km
- Shops 2.0 km
- Restaurant 2.0 km