An elegant oasis not far from the coast, Villa Favorita was once owned by the Baron of Monopoli, an upscale town just a 15-minute drive away. Being a faithful restoration of his 19th century home, it has recovered all the original style and grace, from the floor tiles to the furniture, some of which is by the Baron himself. It's a simply beautiful place to stay and, behind its wrought iron gates, the keeper of some rather opulent secrets...
The first is a summer kitchen, next to the private swimming pool, which is so generously equipped (including an oven, a fridge, a coffee machine, a microwave, a dishwasher and a state-of-the-art Green Egg barbecue) that you could spend your lazy summer days entirely outdoors. Next door, there's a dining table, a pool table, and a sitting area, complete with an original 17th-century Florentine fireplace. And as this is a villa that thinks of everything, there is also a romantic pergola, draped with white curtains for the most serene of siestas.
Villa Favorita's second secret is downstairs, where olive oil and wine were once produced - a vast, vaulted, tranquil space reached by a sweeping staircase. It's surprisingly easy to miss, access is through a small door from the kitchen or a separate entrance outside - but that makes it all the more magical: a secret, bright world with antique furniture, delicate ornaments, piles of soft cushions and a double bedroom with separate bathroom carved from a single block of stone. This fabulous space embodies the essence of the villa: it's a place to luxuriate in life's elegant pleasures and a stunning platform bed in the living area, serves as an enticing retreat for children and teenagers.
Upstairs there is a double bedroom and a twin bedroom sharing a marble and onyx bathroom and a very livable kitchen-dining area. We are happy to arrange for a chef to cook for you whether you choose to dine inside or out, and the barbecue nights are always particularly popular, with children more than welcome to join in on the preparations.
Should you wish to explore, Villa Favorita is just off a secondary road, making it easy to reach beaches and luxury beach clubs within easy reach, whilst the historic towns of Alberobello (famous for its trulli), Castellana Grotte, Polignano a Mare and the Ostuni's 'White City' puts history, culture and some outstanding restaurants on your doorstep.