Puglia is a place with a rich and varied history that pre-dates all known civilisations. It hides its treasures within the ancient walls of its historic towns and villages and despite boasting a vast 800km of coastline, even the beaches reveal themselves slowly here. So Masseria Francescani should come as no surprise. Yet within the walls of this elegant hotel near Lecce, lies an extraordinary oasis of beauty and elegant sophistication that’s quite astonishing.

In a labour of love lasting several years, its innovative young owners have transformed Masseria Francescani into an unashamedly romantic haven, where nine beautifully refurbished suites enjoy the luxury of the hotel’s spacious grounds and exclusive restaurant. And the setting is perfect; just a 10-minute drive from magnificent Lecce (the jewel in the crown of Puglia’s baroque period) and a 5-minute drive from the Adriatic Coast, there is both culture and recreation on the doorstep, enough to rival anywhere in Italy.

The owners’ passion for this restoration is evident at every turn – and it’s an undeniably ambitious endeavour. The vaulted communal areas have a wonderfully palatial feel, where the integrity of the building and the beauty of the natural stone are allowed to take centre stage. The impressive suites are effortlessly grand, yet in perfect harmony with the building’s humbler origins, exuding an understated warmth and simplicity alongside their more extravagant features. For the ultimate indulgence, choose one of the deluxe suites; at over 45 square metres they come complete with sunken whirlpool bath (think plunge pool dimensions), mezzanine seating area, Netflix TV and delightful private garden.

Daily breakfast is included, whilst lunches and evening meals may be requested in advance. Served in the masseria’s spectacular dining area or outside on the pretty terrace overlooking the gardens, you can be assured that the ingredients are fresh, locally sourced and lovingly prepared. And room service here, or indeed poolside service, has a rather innovative approach. Arriving guests are given private access to a WhatsApp group with the on-call staff who will endeavour to meet your heart’s desire throughout your stay, ensuring the service here is both professional and personal, individual and accessible.

Masseria Francescani is a place for dreamers, explorers and romantics. It welcomes a discerning crowd attracted to the prolific art and music scene in Lecce, the region’s magnificent food and its blissfully unfussy beaches. You might spot the odd A-Lister in search of a discreet Salentine base too, but at its heart, Massetia Francescani is for anyone who appreciates the finer things that Puglia has to offer.

Good to know…

Flexible stays are available (minimum three nights). For a blissful twin-centre holiday and a chance to discover more of Puglia, why not combine a visit to Masseria Francescani with a stay at one of our hotels or villas in northern Puglia. 

Explore our pre-bookable experiences in Puglia

Our choice of Italian properties is diverse, ranging from simple charm to genuine luxury and style. Much of our portfolio is privately owned, and price alone is therefore not a universal guide. We contract all our accommodation in person, and each property has its individual appeal.

To help you make the right choice based on your own priorities, we have devised a simple grading guide to be considered in conjunction with each individual property description, awarding up to a maximum of five stars for the below categories.