Overlooking the Adriatic Sea and surrounded by the ancient olive trees of the Fasano Plain, the hotel is set within an orchard and ancient olive trees; a delightful combination of indulgence and rustic Apulian tradition. The property has been many things over the last 500 years - a farm, a fortified lookout across the Adriatic to defend the coast against the Saracens, and a refuge for pilgrims and the Knights of Malta.

Central to the Masseria is a large swimming pool and Jacuzzi shaded by olive trees. There are three restaurants, one under a pergola, another in the stable and a third, the Cabana, by the pool. All serve food from the farm or from the sea, fished by the Masseria's own 45ft motor yacht.

The icing on the cake comes in the form of the hotel's Aveda Spa and state-of-the-art gymnasium.