With its white walls and stone courtyards strewn with trailing bougainvillea, Il Melograno is the quintessential setting for a southern Italian adventure. A converted 17th century fortified farmhouse or masseria, this boutique hotel has a story to tell. Now, instead of closing the gates against marauding Saracens, they open them to guests in search of rest, relaxation and authentic Apulian cooking. Make yourself at home in spacious guestrooms that feel carved out of the thick, original walls. Take in the contrasts between past and present - from the antique furniture to the luxury Shuji bedding. Then step outside and find your ideal lounging spot beside the pool. There is another pool to enjoy in the Wellness Centre, where a sauna and treatment rooms are set in a charming pergola among the olive and citrus groves. Here and there, these ancient trees become living sculptures - while their fruit finds its way to the restaurant, that celebrates ultra-local cuisine. Il Melograno may be set in the peaceful Puglia countryside. But when the sea calls, simply take the hotel shuttle to the private beach. Swim in the Mediterranean, relax under a peach-hued parasol, then sip cooling cocktails from Tamerici Tree Club. With the best of both worlds at your feet- Il Melograno is somewhere you will long to linger. Il Melograno is a Small Luxury Hotels of the World property.