Inside Vista Ostuni : Historic Palazzo Reborn as a Luxury Hotel In Italy’s Whitewashed Town 

Ostuni in Puglia, known as La Città Bianca or “The White City”, is one of Italy’s most captivating regions. Here narrow streets are lined with a maze of whitewashed houses, stone stairs and hidden courtyards with breathtaking views of the ancient olive groves and the sparkling Adriatic Sea.

At the foot of this iconic town is Vista Ostuni – a newly opened luxury hotel that is located just beyond the heart of the town, close enough to walk into town yet quietly removed from the busiest tourist paths.

Set in a grand five-story 14th century stone palazzo, it has a rich history. What was once a convent and then a tobacco-processing factory, has been skilfully brought back to life thanks to the visionary restoration work of Roberto Murgia from Milan’s RMA Studio. Over 6,000 square meters of historic interiors have been carefully preserved and thoughtfully redesigned.

Photo courtesy of © Vista Ostuni 

Vista Ostuni isn’t your typical Puglian masseria, it is a luxury retreat that manages to balance the vibrant energy of the Ostuni village with the peacefulness of the countryside and perfectly capture Apulia’s timeless beauty. This blend of luxury and calm is woven throughout Vista Ostuni, from an impressive grand entrance, high vaulted ceilings to a striking cloister flooded with natural light through a glass roof. Hidden gardens and leafy retreats wind their way from reception to the sun-drenched terraces with a rooftop infinity pool, and finally to a panoramic viewpoint set among trees.

Open all year round, this luxury hotel in Ostuni features 28 spacious rooms and suites, some even spread over two levels. Here No two rooms are alike, choose from front view of the sea and the olive grove plain to views of the White City. The Corner Junior Suites offers double exposure views of the sea and the White City.

Photo courtesy of © Vista Ostuni 

Bathed in warm, natural tones, the interiors serve as a serene retreat following days exploring Apulia’s stunning shores. Carefully chosen elements like marble highlights, hand-carved stone, and bespoke wooden furniture give each room its own unique charm, while luxurious rugs and gentle water features enhance the relaxing energy.

Vista Ostuni features an expansive, year round spa with treatments using the prestigious Biologique Recherche products, complemented by a tranquil indoor pool, whirlpool, sauna, a fully equipped fitness area and two outdoor pools. The rooftop infinity pool offers a perfect spot to bask in the southern sun with 360-degree views, while the garden pool invites a refreshing swim.

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Photo courtesy of © Vista Ostuni 

The hotel’s two exceptional restaurants showcase the authentic essence of Puglian cuisine. Renowned chef Andrea Berton, celebrated for his Michelin-starred Milan restaurant and success at Il Sereno on Lake Como, has brought his innovative culinary approach to Vista Ostuni.

At the heart of the hotel’s dining scene is Berton al Vista, choose between the indoor dining room with adjacent terrace, where you can dine beneath the stars while looking out over the sea, or at poolside. Bianca Bistrot offers a casual, all-day menu by the garden pool, surrounded by olive trees, while the Infinity rooftop bar boasts panoramic views and a rooftop pool. The bar is open to everyone, including non-residents of the hotel.

* All listings featured in this article were independently selected. However, when you book something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission. All the images belong to the respective owners.  © Vista Ostuni