Trulli Damari

Everything!

Nothing

Le lieu, la décoration, la gentillesse du personnel, le repas dans le jardin le soir….

Rien

Absolutely everything! The property was stunning and the suites just beautiful. The smell of the flowers in the gardens, the amazing herb and vegetable gardens were a treat for the senses. The staff are all so friendly and welcoming. The chef collected produce from the garden and explained what dish he was going create for us. He also picked almonds off the tree and grapes from the vine over the restaurant for us to eat.

That we couldn't stay longer.

Exceptional. Like many who have reviewed this beautiful place, I've stayed and visited many upscale hotels - but this was something different. When we arrived the staff said smilingly: 'Welcome to paradise!'. Hmmm, I thought, that's a big statement - but - it pretty much is. If you are after authentic but modern luxury, fusing a celebration of Puglian heritage with nature's most delicious foods prepared and delivered by some of the nicest, most charming staff you could possibly meet - this is the one. The vision for Trulli Damari is BIG: create a garden of paradise in the Puglian countryside surrounding a constellation of perfect trullis, renovated and beautifully re-imagined as authentic but stylish places to stay. A Puglian oasis if you will. I could say that the highlight was the stunning gardens - inspired by Monet - tumbling flowers, an amazing lawn, olive trees hung with sundried tomatoes, acres of vegetables and herbs in the productive gardens. Or I could say it was having a therapeutic massage under an olive tree listening to bees and butterflies flying above my head, followed by a dip in the deep turquoise swimming pool (rarely busy) and a double sun lounger. Or I could say it was diving into some of the most delicious and creative Puglian dishes served up in a simple and perfect way under the grape dappled arbour, ably assisted by delicious Puglian wines. It was all of those things. But actually the cherry (tomato) on the top was the most lovely, amazing people who served and looked after us: Simone, our stylish host and concierge, Mirko, the most creative chef, an advocate for locally sourced ingredients, clever and informative Analisa, the most attentive and lovely Nicole, the gardeners, cleaners and other brilliant staff who made it all possible - and finally Dario, who took us to the beautiful MartinaFranca and Monopoli - a smart guy and great problem solver.

It's intentionally quiet and relaxed. No pizza nights or karaoke here. It's also rural and not close to a town. (15 mins walking). Only 6 rooms (12 people max?). But if you want deep chill and a quality and authentic experience, this is it.