Situated just outside of the town of Nardò on four hectares of flourishing farm land, within the province of Salento, in Puglia, Villa Tafuri holds its heritage as vehemently as an Italian mother does her son’s heart. A testament to how the ancient architecture and prevailing culture of Salento has been nurtured and retained, this hideaway opens its 15th Century doors, revealing a beautiful Baroque masterpiece. What was once a fortified tower, protecting the town from any incoming attacks off the Ionian Coast, Villa Tafuri lends itself as a noble piece of history, a gallant steed, beckoning you in to a contemporary, minimalist space of Italian luxury. Set on two levels of voluminous living, cooking, indoor and outdoor dining spaces, four serene bedrooms with hallways and spacious landings where reclining areas rest adjacent original fireplaces, there is no marble, limestone or ‘carparo’ stone left unturned when it comes to a tale of true love in Puglia.
Overlooking the abounding gardens of olive groves, fruit orchards, vineyards and the dreamy swimming pool that entices a lap or two every morning and afternoon – whatever the weather – Villa Tafuri is the perfect place to retreat to, away from the crowds of the town’s centre, yet within a brisk cruise to all of the jovial happenings. When you’re not exploring the coastline and its venerable villages, dancing in the nearby piazza under the stars with the community or swimming the clear waters of the stunning local beaches, you’ll be ensconced in the medieval atmosphere of your own Apulian santuario. Where the light moves through the arches and the vaults, across the frescoes onto the tiles and back out into the enclosed gardens and unravelling farmland. Hours will be spent beside the swimming pool – dipping in and out of the water as you simultaneously dip in and out of that novel. Late afternoons on the loungers on the terrace, or sitting around the table doing what we all love to do best – feasting, quaffing and laughing at our own brilliant jokes. We can, because we’re in Puglia, where we don’t take ourselves too seriously. We’re on holiday with our favourite people, doing our favourite things in a place that’s as revered as a destination, as it is Europe’s best-kept secret. For when it’s time to take to the beaten and lesser beaten tracks of the coastline, the batteries have been charged, the senses are ready for another stimulating dose of culture and cuisine, and the company is more than happy to embark on some new holiday banter.
What we love!
- The grounds on which Villa Tafuri sits – fifteen minutes from the town of Nardò – are wonderfully secluded and serene, as if residing on your own little sanctuary. You can pick the fruit and vegetables from the garden, and as the climate of the region is mild in winter, with lovely long summers, you can spend time in nature all year round.
- Though the property dates back to the mid 1400’s, the signature contemporary pieces and simplistic style furnishing each room, honours the spaces with integrity. Even down to the handmade soap – their natural ‘Marlo’ cosmetics in the bathrooms.
- All of the lovely beaches of the region are in a short driving distance from the villa towards the Ionian Coast and its famous white, sandy shores.
What you need to know…
- The stairway leading from the ground floor to the top floor is steep and not advisable for any families with small children or those with walking difficulties.
- The nearest big airport is Bari – about a two-hour drive from Villa Tafuri. You can either hire a car – highly recommended so that you are at liberty to explore – or you can catch a train or a bus from Lecce to Nardò.
- Should you wish to employ the skills and service of a chef, the Villa’s representatives will happily arrange someone to share the local cuisine with you.
- The villa is located between the three baroque towns of Galatone, Galatina and Nardò – all home to historical residences, castles and ‘masserias’- for some cultural touring.
- For all avid sports-goers, the country roads are ideal for cycling to the sea or in the direction of Galatina. You can also do some horse riding, yoga classes, cooking classes, olive and wine tasting…when in Puglia…
- Please speak to us directly about combining other destinations and properties within the area for your travel itinerary.
Reviewed by Colleen Ogilvie