The enchanting Masseria Cimino is a glamorous version of Italian agriturismo. This charming little russet red guesthouse is set around the central courtyard of an 18th-century farm steading. Understatedly chic throughout, everything is white, crisp and clean and provides a brilliant contrast to the azure Adriatic twinkling in the distance.
The 15 bedrooms include four-poster beds with billowing folds of the softest muslin and the occasional piece of locally crafted furniture. Some have little stone fireplaces which in cooler months are lit, while others have small terraces and balconies. Nearly all feature little nooks and alcoves filled with bowls of fresh lemons and pots of prickly pears. The bathrooms are naturally crafted using local stone for the sinks and marble showers and bath tubs.
In keeping with the Cimino vibe, the restaurant remains simple. However, the cooking is phenomenal and an ever-changing set menu attracts locals and visitors from afar every evening. Tea lights flicker in glass jars under large bunches of dried tomatoes, while a wall of tulips above a table groaning with fresh pasta and grilled vegetables makes it both cosy and really clever in the design.
The stone swimming pool is built-up and offers fabulous views down to the sea. For non-golfers there are bicycles to rent to explore the undemanding local terrain, and the sandy beaches are just a short drive away.
Masseria Cimino is a well-kept secret. Its guests are treated as family friends, and we urge you to discover it before the rest of the world does.
