Masseria dei Preti

Conversano is just a 5-minute drive or about a 30-minute walk away, and I loved wandering its winding cobbled lanes toward the impressive castle. It feels like a town with real soul. Back at Casina dei Preti, there are pools, a cared-for garden, fruit and olive orchards, and the Apulia countryside all around. What stayed with me most was the family who own and run the place, along with their talented staff. Their care, kindness, and generosity come through in everything. I've stayed in hotels across the world, and this is one of the best. I loved every minute and hope to return soon.

The pool and gardens are gorgeous, and dinner was really good, with fresh local flavors. It's a charming countryside spot near Conversano and a handy base for seeing the area. Breakfast was just okay, though, and could be better for the price.

The setting is lovely, with well-kept grounds that feel like a little oasis, and the pool and restaurant surroundings are beautiful. We spent six nights across two different accommodations. The rooms were plain and practical, and the mattresses weren't very comfortable, though manageable. A TV that worked properly would've been nice. Breakfast was the biggest letdown: the choices were limited, the fruit was often either underripe or old, and items weren't replenished on their own. One woman working breakfast was much more efficient, while on the other days a man seemed bothered when we asked for coffee, which wasn't okay. Dinner was fine but nothing special. The location near Conversano, Monopoli, and Polignano is excellent, and I'd still recommend the place despite those issues. There's room for improvement, especially bringing more care and warmth to breakfast. It worked for kids, but seemed better suited to couples or families with older children.

We came just for dinner, not to stay overnight. The four-course meal was 35 euro, and we were so full we could hardly finish it. Beautiful place, lovely service, and it almost felt like being at home. Grazie