Relais Masseria Montalbano

Originally a sixteenth century stronghold, Montalbano's spectacular coastal surroundings made it vulnerable to pirate raids; high stone walls were built around the property to protect its 300 residents, who lived and worked on the farm, from banditry. Within the walls that still stand today, you will see the farm workers houses, the church, the olive presses, barns and stables, as well as the main farmhouse where the lord of the manor would have lived.
In the first half of the seventeenth century, Montalbano was owned by the Acquavivas of Aragon, Lords of Conversano, who took advantage of the land to turn Montalbano into a 22 hectare olive grove and a centre of importance for olive oil production. Later they rebuilt the church of the Blessed Virgin of the Rosary – the family crest can still be found on the altar. So needless to say this masseria is unique slice of local history. The owners have lovingly restored most of the estate buildings, using traditional materials to retain as much of the local character as possible, transforming the antiquated property into a stylish, modern hotel.
Rare Mediterranean pines, multi-coloured bougainvillea and shrubs overflowing from old stone troughs all add colour to the inner courtyards. Lining the courtyards are little terraces of original uneven stone-paving, that belong to the former living quarters of the farm workers - these have been converted into luxurious bedrooms. Inside, the rooms are impressive and unfussy, decorated with little colour - plain white walls, stone floors, and the ornate furniture painted in minimalist grey, with the odd vase, candle or lamp providing a vivid splash of accent colour.
In the old house the reception, bar and restaurant, all with high vaulted ceilings, feel spacious and comfortable with an up-to-the-minute take on a rustic theme. The bar uses parts of the olive press and modern chrome lighting. The lounge and TV room, with old stone animal troughs around the walls, is furnished with sumptuous ivory sofas that invite the travel weary to sink into their depths. The restaurant is decorated in a similar way to the rest of the hotel and is every bit as impressive, with the winding mechanisms of the olive press and enormous white chandeliers, which drip with opulent faux fruit, and doors that open onto a terrace and the garden. The masseria has an excellent reputation for its cuisine and the food served uses local ingredients and is beautifully presented and delicious.
Right from your arrival at this manor farm, as you pass the ancient, rambling olive trees that line the driveway, you'll get a flavour of the Puglia of times gone by. Old and new mingle with tasteful elegance in this rural treasure – a must if you want to experience Italy in the raw, with all the comforts of home.

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