With its vaulted ceilings, exquisite arches and exposed stone walls, a first glance suggests that this is an immaculately restored farmhouse, but Masseria Pino Marittimo  was built in 2014 and designed to showcase the beauty of Puglia’s architectural traditions. The owners commissioned OKA for the interior decoration and the villa incorporates bespoke craftsmanship complemented by modern amenities such as a cooling system in every room and a fully equipped, contemporary kitchen. Looking out over miles of open countryside, the villa is set in landscaped mature lawned gardens with lemon and orange trees, in a tranquil olive grove, just outside the village of  Serrano. In the main house there are three bedrooms, an airy dining room with an arty chandelier and long refectory table, and a cool toned sitting room, its uncluttered style a perfect foil for the intricately tiled floor. Three further guest rooms in the annexe include a bunk-bed room, ideal for youngsters. And the pool area with lawned gardens is the focal point for outdoor living, complete with dining gazebo with adjacent seating area, summer kitchen, and children’s toys.

In villa cook service can be arranged and the villa is within very easy reach of excellent inexpensive restaurants. Shops and inexpensive restaurants can be found in Serrano and in and around other local villages. Many local villages host atmospheric food festivals and concerts. The villa is a fifteen minute drive from a gently sloping, family-friendly beach. Beautiful sandy beaches including Alimini and Torre dell'Orso with beach clubs are within easy driving distance and surfing, kite surfing, SUP, kayaking can be enjoyed. Day trips on yachts can be enjoyed from Otranto during the season. Cycling is also very popular and bicycles (with guides if required) can also be hired. Salento, this area of southern Puglia is a unspoilt pocket of southern Europe dotted with beautiful towns, villages and superb restaurants. Interesting half day trips include visiting the picturesque old town and beaches of Otranto and Gallipoli and the magnificent baroque town and upmarket shopping of Lecce.