The old saying goes ‘Location! Location! Location!’ – and its true. Housed in a beautifully restored early sixteenth century fortress built into Monopoli’s defensive wall, with a roof terrace looking straight out to sea, Don Ferrante’s location is certainly spectacular.

But for a five star hotel, location alone is not enough. If the words fortress conjure up an image of dark and gloom think again. The ten rooms and suite are flooded with light. Many have sea views and some have balconies too. The vaulted ceilings and archways of local, pale gold sandstone are lit to great effect; stylish furnishings in neutral tones harmonise beautifully. Bathrooms are elegant and inviting, the bed and bath linen is top notch and there are extra touches such as large flat screen TVs in each room that double up as computers with a pull out keyboard. It goes without saying there is cable TV and Wi Fi also. Comfortable, romantic and well equipped as the bedrooms are, the lure of the outside terraces, with small hydro-massage swimming pool, comfortable seating and spectacular sea views will prove irresistible.

Breakfast can be served in your room, on the terrace or in the restaurant. This latter is housed in what was once the gunpowder magazine; it serves delicious local dishes and has an excellent wine list. In the summertime you can dine on the terrace.

This boutique hotel in Puglia is small enough to provide the kind of service you expect from a five star hotel without the impersonality of some larger hotels. The Staff manage to be welcoming and friendly whilst remaining very professional and unobtrusive – sometimes a hard act to pull off. There is valet parking, necessary in Monopoli where the narrow streets of the centro storico may be enchanting but can prove a challenge to non-native drivers. Certainly a car is not essential – the churches, shops and sights of Monopoli are all within strolling distance as are a selection of beaches, restaurants and bars.

For prices, which always match the lowest available online rates, and more details, see http://www.personalpuglia.com/portfolio/don-ferrante-hotel-in-puglia/gallery/hotels-in-puglia/