Masseria Petrarolo is set among hectares of olive groves and looks out onto the Adriatic Sea beyond. The fortified farmhouse dates back to 1689 and was originally built to protect its residents from pirates and the Saracens, only accessible by a drawbridge. Recently it has undergone complete restoration with stunning results. The original features were meticulously restored and enhanced with some modern amenities. While celebrated interior designer Alexander Waterworth was leading the team, most of the craftsmen were skilled locals. Antique furniture and some modern day pieces have been carefully selected and were sourced within Italy and in other parts of Europe. Attention to detail has been paid to every single element. The Masseria now offers 8 ensuite bedrooms, 6 in the main building of the Masseria and 2 in the Pool House. All of them are individually furnished but kept in the theme of soothing pastel colours, rustic simplicity and elegant refinement. Most of them have direct garden access, sea views and free-standing baths. In case more than 16 guests are expected, the 1974 Airstream Overlander offers idyllic accommodation for a further two guests. It has been renovated over a time period of 4 years and is now equipped with a double bedroom, wetroom with toilet and shower, a living room and kitchenette. In the main building the room provisioned for the chef, which is decorated in the same style and to equally high standards, can sleep 2 more guests and is used as an overflow room. Meals are either served on the breakfast terrace, attached to the main building or on the terrace next to the pool. For atmospheric dining experiences inside, the wonderful “Trajan Room” with its impressive 7 meter long table provides the perfect setting. Attached to it a comfortable living room with sofas and a fireplace invites for more relaxation. This is where the former stables were located and the cattle troughs are still a distinct feature.
Equally extraordinary are the Masseria’s outside spaces, like the rooftop pool and the adjoining lounge and dining area with breathtaking panoramas of the surrounding countryside and the sparkling sea at the horizon. The main pool in the garden is enormous and replicates the beach and the sea, while blending in perfectly well with its surroundings. Below lush, terraced gardens with herbs and vegetables provide parts of the menu, prepared by the private chef who is a master in Apulian cooking. A walled garden with variety of lemon and orange trees fill the air with beautiful scents. For anyone dreaming of an intimate wedding in an extraordinary setting, Masseria Petrarolo has its own chapel and weddings can be arranged on the grounds. The courtyard with its antique chianche (stone slabs) flooring seems like the ideal place for an Apulian wedding feast under the starlit summer sky.
Other pastimes which can be enjoyed are wine tastings in front of the wine cellar, the hammam or an in- or outdoor cinema night.
Throughout their stay guests are looked after by a small team of housekeepers and many extra services can be arranged upon request.
The nearby port town of Monopoli is an enchanting place with lovely restaurants, markets and picture perfect sandy coves.
Masseria Petrarolo is an Apulian dream which will endlessly linger in the fondest memories of its visitors.