There’s something very appealing about the contrast between the fabulously modern Villa Ddo and the sleepy rural setting it inhabits. Surrounded by ancient olive trees and a boutique vineyard belonging to the neighbouring Relais, this luxurious single storey house is a triumph of minimalist design, glistening white amidst the beautiful Puglian countryside.

Inside, the sleek open-plan living space offers ample room for relaxation and huge picture windows frame the views on either side to ensure you remain in touch with the lovely surroundings at every turn. The contemporary décor and luxury fittings have been carefully chosen to create a comfortable, restful environment and the practical 3-bedroom layout is equally suited to families or couples travelling together.

The shaded terrace is a charming spot for a convivial meal, made all the more enticing thanks to an outdoor kitchen where you can prepare your favourite dishes under the stars - or even request a private chef to do it for you. And if your idea of holiday heaven is pure relaxation, there’s no question that having a rather special Relais next door has some distinct advantages; enjoy breakfast on the terrace overlooking their private vineyard, book an evening meal in the restaurant, or indulge in a little pampering at the spa. You can also book a cookery lesson – their chef will be happy to introduce you to the delights of Puglian cuisine at the hotel, or in the well-appointed kitchen of Villa Ddo.

Though there really is no need to venture far, it would be a shame to miss out on the many attractions of this captivating region. The charming towns and villages of the Valle d’Itria are within easy reach, including Cisternino, Martina Franca, Ostuni and UNESCO-listed Alberobello. Adriatic beaches are a half-hour drive away and day trips to the baroque city of Lecce or the extraordinary town of Matera are also easy to navigate if you’re keen to explore a little further. With so much to do and absolutely no pressure to do any of it, the choice is all yours.

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.