Tenuta Monacelli
★★★★☆
Country Hotel
Lecce, Italy
Set among centuries-old olive groves, vineyards, and woodland, Tenuta Monacelli blends historic masserias, authentic Salento hospitality, and countryside tranquillity just outside Lecce.
About the hotel
Located a few kilometres north of Lecce, Tenuta Monacelli is surrounded by 400 hectares of olive groves, vineyards, and Mediterranean woodland in the heart of Salento. Comprising the historic Masseria Monacelli and Masseria Giampaolo, the estate enjoys a peaceful rural setting while remaining close to Lecce’s Baroque centre and the Adriatic coastline.
The estate celebrates the traditions of southern Puglia through a hospitality concept rooted in nature, gastronomy, and local heritage. Rather than offering a conventional resort experience, Tenuta Monacelli invites guests to immerse themselves in the rhythms of rural Salento, combining authentic countryside living with attentive, personalised service.
Beautifully restored sixteenth-century masserias preserve original stone walls, vaulted ceilings, fireplaces, and traditional architectural features while incorporating contemporary comforts. Elegant rooms and suites are spread throughout the two historic buildings, surrounded by citrus gardens, vineyards, swimming pools, and peaceful courtyards that reflect the timeless character of the estate.
What distinguishes Tenuta Monacelli is the diversity of experiences available across the estate. Guests can enjoy regional gastronomy, wellness treatments, wine tastings, outdoor activities, and cultural excursions while discovering one of Salento’s most authentic rural landscapes.
Today, Tenuta Monacelli is best suited to couples, families, wellness travellers, and wine lovers seeking an authentic countryside escape immersed in the traditions, flavours, and landscapes of southern Italy.
Drone view of Tenuta Monacelli Lecce surrounded by the peaceful countryside and olive groves of Salento
Breakfast buffet featuring fresh pastries, juices, cereals, and local Italian specialties in an elegant dining room
Aerial view of the resort’s expansive outdoor swimming pool surrounded by lush gardens and sun loungers
Elegant guest room featuring handcrafted stone architecture, rustic furnishings, and contemporary comfort
Modern bathroom with soft lighting and direct access to the elegant guest room
Outdoor terrace with elegant seating overlooking the beautifully restored historic estate in Lecce
Guest relaxing beside the outdoor swimming pool surrounded by Mediterranean gardens and tranquil countryside
Traditional Puglian country house with outdoor fireplace surrounded by peaceful gardens at Tenuta Monacelli Lecce
Historic stone archway leading to the peaceful courtyard and gardens of Tenuta Monacelli Lecce
Authentic Italian dinner featuring grilled steak, local wine, roasted vegetables, and rustic countryside dining
Creator experience
“Stepping into Tenuta Monacelli felt like discovering a quieter side of Puglia. I loved wandering through the historic estate, where every corner reflected the region’s character and history. Between the peaceful surroundings, authentic local cuisine, and unhurried pace of each day, it became one of those places that gently encourages you to slow down and savour every moment.”
captured by Mélissa Durand
Know before you go
Features
Number of Rooms: 33
Historic Masserias
400-Hectare Estate
Outdoor Swimming Pools
Spa & Wellness Centre
Restaurant Il Rifugio del Re
Olive Groves & Vineyards
Fitness Centre
Historic Gardens
Good To Know
Check-In / Check-Out: 3:00 PM / 11:00 AM
Adults Only: No
Pet Friendly: Yes
Dining: Il Rifugio del Re Restaurant & Breakfast
Parking: Complimentary Private Parking
WiFi: Complimentary Throughout The Estate
Accessibility: Selected Accessible Areas Available
Weddings / Events: Yes - Weddings, private celebrations and corporate events available
Best For: Couples, Families, Wine Lovers, Wellness Escapes, Rural Getaways
Experiences
Wine Tastings
Olive Oil Tastings
Spa Treatments
Cooking Classes
Cycling
Horse Riding
Guided Nature Walks
Salento Cultural Excursions
Beach Day Trips
Local Gastronomy Experiences
Low Season: From €170/$195
High Season: *From €320/$370
Getting there
Located just north of Lecce, Tenuta Monacelli enjoys a peaceful countryside setting surrounded by olive groves and vineyards while offering easy access to the Baroque city of Lecce, the Adriatic coast, and the villages of Salento.
Address
localita Cerrate, Via Giacomo Monticelli, 73100 Lecce LE, Italy
How to get there
Brindisi Airport (BDS)
Approximately 30-35 minutes by car.
Public Transport
Lecce railway station is approximately 20 minutes away by taxi, with regular train connections from Bari, Brindisi, and other major Italian cities.
Nearby
Abbey of Santa Maria di Cerrate - 5 minutes by car
Lecce Historic Centre - 20 minutes by car
Torre Chianca Beach - 20 minutes by car
Acaya Castle - 25 minutes by car