We are proud to present this next issue in our series focusing on the people, culture and communities that make up our diverse Waterstone Collection. Throughout the series we will continue to introduce you to people who are passionate ambassadors for their local cultures and communities. In this edition we focus on Serena Pignataro of the Talea Collection, which offers an array of resorts, villas and DMC services in the Italian region of Puglia.
Learn about the Talea Collection's resorts in Puglia
“Schooled in the art of luxury hospitality while working in some of Rome’s most iconic hotels, Serena Pignataro returned to her beloved Puglia in 2018, just as the region started to enhance its well-deserved popularity as an exciting Italian countryside destination, beyond the popular Italian city itineraries. As director of sales and marketing for the Talea Collection, Serena has a high regard for travel advisors and is eager to help with your itinerary planning as your single point of contact for the luxury hotels, villas and DMC services operated by Talea across the region."
— Marcelo Vazquez
President & CEO, Waterstone
Puglia, which offers 800 km of coastline bordering the Adriatic Sea, is a land steeped in history with its own unique culture and a well-deserved reputation for some of Italy’s finest cuisine. Served by Bari or Brindisi airports and easily accessible by train (Rome is 4 hours away) the region is an attractive choice for luxury travelers seeking greater seclusion, a relaxing ambience and range of unique cultural attractions. Accommodation and experience options include:
RESORTS —La Peschiera is a wonderfully intimate, ocean-front luxury retreat, ideal for couples seeking to indulge themselves. With just 13 rooms and just 10 minutes from Monopoli on the clear waters of the Adriatic, the resort provides a sophisticated Apulian culinary experience and breathtaking sea views from its seafront Saleblu Restaurant.
Il Melograno was the first Masseria (a former 17th century country house) to open its doors to guests and has built a wonderful reputation as one of Puglia’s finest 5-star resorts. Located just outside the town of Monopoli, Il Melograno offers 41 rooms, an onsite Apulian Cooking School overseen by Executive Chef Vito Casulli, and Petramare Spa with its heated indoor and outdoor pools and range of wellness treatments. Guests have privileges at the nearby Tamerici Beach Club with its beautiful sandy beach, bar and restaurant.
The 4-star Cala Ponte Hotel with 58 rooms sits adjacent to its very own Marina, a short walk from the historic town of Polignano a Mare and its famous cliffs overlooking the Adriatic. Within easy access to Puglia’s historic sights, the resort offers great value, particularly for families on a budget, and is a perfect retreat after a day’s sightseeing with its own pools, tennis court and spa.
VILLAS — Talea Collection also offers a range of Villas across the region and have created a number of easy 4-night villa packages with a car hire included. Choose from the beachfront Villa Levante or Trulli Montaltino, a traditional ‘Trullo’ property, and be sure to click each individual property for full package details.
