Il Melograno
S. Italy: Puglia: Monopoli
Located in the heart of the lush countryside on the beautiful east coast of Italy, Il Melograno was originally built as the 16th century Masseria Toricella. The tranquil setting is truly lovely, and one can wander through the olive and citrus groves surrounding the property. The bedrooms - with connecting rooms for families - are located in Moorish style buildings and are furnished with antiques from the extensive collection of the owner. Breakfast is served near the hotel's outdoor pool and includes a bountiful display of fresh fruits and pastries, each displayed in its own silver compote. Fresh oranges are squeezed on the spot. The restaurant is built around an olive tree that dates back nearly 1,000 years! The fact that many clients take half board is testimony to the high quality of the cuisine. The hotel also has an extensive wine cellar. Piano music adds to the relaxing atmosphere at dinner, served outside, weather permitting. Other facilities include a private beach located about 7 km from the hotel (a fee applies for use of beach facilities), two hard-surface lit tennis courts and an excellent restaurant and bar. A short drive away is the town of Alberobello, famous for the conical trulli houses, where one can enjoy lunch at Trullo d'Oro. A trip to the baroque city of Lecce takes about one hour and is time well spent. Lunch in Lecce at Villa Monica is most enjoyable.

Recently, the hotel opened a 4,000 square foot state-of-the-art Orlane spa, one of the best spas in Italy in JDB's opinion, with very professional and well-trained staff. It is in its own building with a huge indoor pool, myriad treatment rooms including those for chormatherapy, and large and well-equipped fitness center. In spring time, the path to the spa is scented with orange blossoms so that one arrives feeling more relaxed even before starting the treatments.

NOTE: Hotel closes from early November until late March.