Canne Bianche Lifestyle Hotel

Puglia, as you may know, is enjoying its moment in the sun — it’s suddenly a hot destination among travelers seeking something a bit shinier and brighter than the traditional Tuscan escapade. (All puns in the preceding sentence are entirely intentional.) Canne Bianche Lifestyle Hotel, as the name implies, aims to be something more than just the latest addition to the boutique-hotel offerings dotting the so-called heel of the boot.

So just what exactly is this lifestyle that Canne Bianche is offering? Simplicity, elegance, great food, long days spent sunning yourself on a quiet beach. The 49-room hotel sits right on the edge of the Adriatic Sea. It’s the kind of hotel where you check in and then check out, mentally: the place is self-sufficient, with beach access, a gorgeous seafront swimming pool, a sweet cocktail bar, Turkish bath, and, of course, an excellent restaurant, Autentico Wine & Restaurant, specializing in gourmet takes on traditional Puglian cuisine. Read: impossibly fresh fish, homemade pasta, and sun-ripened tomatoes fresh off the vine, and the requisite list of local wines.

Guest rooms and suites, outfitted in natural hues and textures that reflect the Puglian landscape, are as peaceful as you’d imagine. The bathrooms are lined with Italian marble and feature either a Jacuzzi or a walk-in shower. Standard amenities include 32-inch LCD TVs, free wi-fi, and minibars stocked with regional products; the fact that every room comes with its own private balcony or terrace is a thoughtful touch. Spring for a suite and the terrace comes with sea views and chaises longues. That outdoor lounge space is all part of the lifestyle a la Canne Bianche, as is the stylish continental breakfast, with its strong coffee and fresh-baked pastries, and late afternoon aperitivi — try an Aperol spritz to really get into the swing of things — at sunset.