Few destinations make the heart quicken quite like Italy. And with such a feast of fabulous food and wine, stunning vistas, and all things arty from architecture to design and fashion, frankly what’s not to love?
For those in search of la dolce vita, we’ve cherry-picked some of the most divine luxury villas to rent in Italy, from exclusive properties in Puglia to secret gems in Sicily and Tuscany…
Puglia, Italy
Located in the sun-kissed heel of Italy’s boot, Puglia is an increasingly sought-after luxury travel destination that captivates visitors with its unique charm and a rich tapestry of experiences. Its stunning coastline with crystal-clear turquoise waters and pristine beaches is dotted with exclusive resorts offering unparalleled views of the Adriatic and Ionian Seas. And prepare for an unforgettable gastronomic experience — Puglia is a culinary haven known for its fresh seafood, artisanal olive oils, and world-renowned wines.
The historic towns of Alberobello and Matera, both UNESCO World Heritage Sites, showcase the regions’ unique architecture with trulli houses and cave dwellings, while Puglia’s countryside, adorned with ancient olive groves and vineyards, provides an idyllic setting for upscale agritourism experiences.
Furthermore, Puglia’s captivating cultural scene includes vibrant festivals, with traditional music, and folk dances, providing an immersive journey into the heart of Southern Italian traditions. With its blend of luxurious amenities, cultural richness, and natural beauty, Puglia stands as a premier destination for those seeking an upscale and authentic Italian experience.
Luxury villas to rent in Puglia
Villa Lamia
The enchanting Villa Lamia is a magical three-bedroom bolthole nestled amongst olive groves, just a short drive from the white, hilltop village of Ostuni and the beaches within the Torre Guaceto Natural Reserve. A beautifully restored lamia — a traditional structure found all over Puglia — with light open spaces, it perfectly blends rustic and traditional aesthetics with contemporary furnishings. The interiors are chic and minimalist, with carefully sourced pieces of furniture and artwork. The exterior is quintessentially Puglianese with mature Mediterranean gardens and olive groves surrounding the private pool.
With three large king-sized double bedrooms, the villa comfortably sleeps up to six guests. Two of the bedrooms are found in the main building, whilst the third double is in a separate structure offering extra privacy. Guests staying at this villa can enjoy alfresco dining on the covered terrace and BBQs in the outdoor kitchen and fireplace.
This is an excellent private villa rental in Puglia for small groups and families looking for an authentic retreat nearby to Puglia’s beautiful villages and beaches. The property is just a 30-minute drive from Brindisi Airport and an hour from Bari Airport. From £2,880 per week.
Masseria Pistola
Masseria Pistola, a magnificent and stylish 10-bedroom family home that sits in a prominent position within a picturesque estate, offers stunning views across the beautiful Canale Di Pirro Valley.
The property is the brainchild of entrepreneur and owner Constant Tedder, who lovingly renovated the property with the help of James Thurstan Waterworth, ex-European Design Director for Soho House; Puglian based English architect, Anthony Filmer; and local architect, Andrea Rodio.
What makes Masseria Pistola so special is the four hectares of private gardens that surround the house in every direction. The Mediterranean aromatic plants populate the private walled gardens of the Masseria, creating wonderful spaces for walking and mindful relaxation. Love to cycle? The property is also close to the Ciclovia, a 50 km stretch of bicycle pathways that winds through the Valle D’Itria.
Masseria Pistola has a private chef, and full housekeeping staff. From £9,772 per week in low season and from £28,929 per week in peak season.
Masseria Petrarolo
Situated a 25-minute drive away from Masseria Pistola, Masseria Petrarolo, is an impressive nine-bedroom family home and estate, set high over 50 hectares of olive groves and blooming lavender fields offering sweeping views of the Adriatic Sea.
A stay at this stunning estate can be enjoyed in so many ways: as a base for activities and excursions to the beach clubs, or sites of interest like Lecce and Cisternino —or a place to hide away, relax and enjoy the house, the land, the pools, the tennis court and the gardens.
The house has two pool areas, the main beach style pool with shallow areas for children and the rooftop pool. The Hammam needs just 20 minutes to build up steam and can be enjoyed anytime of the day or night. The tennis court has a viewing pagoda so all the family and guests can watch others play or have a tournament. The kitchen gardens provide fresh strawberries all summer and most of the seasonal vegetables throughout the year.
Masseria Petrarolo also has a private chef and full housekeeping staff. From £11,572 per week in low season and from £32,144 per week in peak season.
Other top picks…
Villa Montalbano, Sicily
Villa Montalbano is a three-bedroom luxury villa situated near the south coast of the island, just six kilometres from the beach. The property is reached via a small country road, leading up the hill from the coast above a small valley. From the terrace just outside the house, guests can see across the unspoiled countryside right down to the sea. Natural shade is provided by the carob trees which cast their shade over a dining terrace where guests can lounge all day long. The tranquil swimming pool lies on a terrace below the house — the perfect spot to cool down in the heat of the day.
Inside, the property has been beautifully renovated by the architect son of the owner, who has retained the original features, while adding modern comforts and amenities. The ground floor living rooms, dining room and kitchen all flow into each other, and all have French doors opening to the terrace. The master bedroom is also on the ground floor, and has two bathrooms, one with a tub and one with a shower. Open stairs lead to the upper floor where there are a further two bedrooms, each with its own bathroom.
This beautiful villa is in close proximity to the picturesque towns of Scicli, Ragusa and Modica, as well as Donnalucata and Sampieri beaches – some of the most beautiful places to visit in this part of Sicily. From £1,852 per week.
Villa Sarteano, Tuscany
A stunning renovated farmhouse in Tuscany, Villa Sarteano is a one-of-a-kind property, offering genuine local charm and a truly unique atmosphere. The five-bedroom property has 360° uninterrupted panoramic views of the Val d’Orcia‘s landscape of rolling hills, valleys and the outlines of the quaint villages in the distance.
This villa rental offers a variety of al fresco dining options with a spectacular heated swimming pool, and the extended vine covered pergola in front of the property seats 16 guests — the perfect spot for long lunches. Inside, the country style kitchen is typically Tuscan, and superbly equipped with a large stone countertop, perfect for whipping up a feast for family and friends. There’s even a vegetable garden with delicious fresh produce, including sun-ripened tomatoes and fresh basil ready to be picked.
Throughout the house, there are original features such as old cotto tiles and wooden beams, and an old stone fireplace in the living room. Colourful fabrics and a clever mix of old and contemporary furnishings create a fabulously warm home. The house sleeps 10 guests in three beautifully furnished double bedrooms and two twin bedrooms, all with en-suite bathrooms.
Situated a 15-minute drive from the nearest town of Sarteano, the villa is your gateway to Umbria’s and southern Tuscany’s most picturesque towns of Pienza, Montepulciano, Cetona and the best local restaurants and wineries of the region. From £2,880 per week.
Tempted? View our full range of luxury villas and apartments in Puglia, Tuscany and Sicily or explore Italy’s other magical destinations, Umbria, The Amalfi Coast, Lake Como, Lake Garda,
And feast your eyes on our luxury city apartments to rent in Florence, Rome, and Venice.
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