Rocco Forte Hotels has taken over operations of the existing five-star Masseria Torre Maizza resort in Puglia, Italy. The property, which will reopen in May, will undergo an extensive renovation led by Olga Polizzi, director of design for the company.
The opening will be Rocco Forte Hotels' first in Puglia; it has Italian properties in Rome, Florence and Sicily.
Located near the seaside town of Savelletri di Fasano and close to the Adriatic coast, the hotel is surrounded by groves of ancient olive trees and a nine-hole executive golf course.
Originally a 16th-century farmhouse, or masseria, the hotel will benefit from a renovation investment of about $7 million, focusing on guestroom refurbishment and the addition of suites and junior suites. The room count will expand from 30 to 40 units.
All units will offer garden views, and public areas will include a rooftop bar, a restaurant overlooking the swimming pool, a fitness center, kids club, access to a private beach club nearby and meetings and event space.