Porta D’Oriente Suite – Where the Mediterranean Meets the Orient
Brilliant white limewashed houses line the maze-like alleys of Ostuni’s Moorish old town. As promised in every travel guide, the “White City” rises proudly on a 300-meter hill, gleaming in the sunlight like an oriental kasbah.
But if you prefer to stay by the sea, you’ll find an equally enchanting retreat in Marina di Ostuni: the Porta D’Oriente Suite. Once a humble outbuilding of a seaside masseria, it has been lovingly transformed through extensive renovation into a charming hideaway with true character and flair.
Originally envisioned as Mare di Stelle (“Sea of Stars”) - inspired by the moonlight shimmering on the nearby waves - the apartment ultimately found its perfect name: Porta D’Oriente Suite, the Gateway to the Orient.
Oriental – Mediterranean – Rustic – Unique
While designed in a distinct oriental style, the Porta D’Oriente Suite perfectly embodies Apulia’s role as a bridge between cultures - a harmonious blend of East and West.
Passing through the handcrafted garden gate framed by two white stone pillars with domed tops reminiscent of distant mosques, you’ll find yourself surrounded by the warm tones of sand and terracotta. The dry-stone wall enclosing the terrace exudes both Mediterranean and Middle Eastern charm, creating a sense of privacy and serenity.
A long white masonry bench adorned with colorful oriental cushions invites you to relax with a glass of Apulian red wine while listening to the soothing sound of the sea. From here, you enjoy a partial sea view; just a few steps away lies direct access to a sandy cove. A wooden dining set on the lawn offers the perfect spot for romantic candlelit dinners, with soft lighting and lanterns adding to the intimate outdoor atmosphere.
The Interior
The freshly restored suite accommodates two guests (plus a small child, if desired). Thanks to air conditioning (heating/cooling), it’s also ideal for stays in autumn and winter.
Every detail reflects the owners’ love and passion for design. Premium materials such as travertine and Jerusalem stone (Pietra di Gerusalemme) were used throughout, giving the interior a warm, natural glow. The built-in double bed evokes Moorish architecture, and the wall above it is decorated with colorful Persian majolica tiles. Subtle, perforated metal lamps from Morocco create fascinating lighting effects.
The kitchenette features a beautiful yellow travertine countertop and saffron-colored walls. It is fully equipped with a ceramic cooktop, oven, refrigerator with freezer, glassware, dishes, and all necessary utensils. Two colonial-style barstools offer an inviting spot for indoor dining.
Throughout the suite, authentic decorative pieces from the owners’ travels bring the Oriental theme to life: a mirror from London, antique prints from Tuscany, kilim cushions from Ostuni’s markets, and an ivory-toned canopy serving as a creative alternative to a traditional wardrobe. The walls retain their rustic, handcrafted texture, preserving the building’s original character.
A white sliding door leads to the bathroom, where travertine mosaics replace traditional tiles. The walk-in shower features a crystal door, and the travertine countertop supports an elegant vessel sink with refined fixtures. Natural stone flooring, a window, towel radiator, and hairdryer complete the space.
Additional Amenities
Private parking space on the property
Pet (1 dog upon request, extra fee)
Ground-floor location
The Setting
The Porta D’Oriente Suite is located in Villanova, beside the charming old fishing harbor, and close to Camerini, a coastal village that has retained its authentic Apulian character. Here you can still watch local fishermen heading out to sea at dawn and preparing their fresh polipi (octopus) on the rocks - a true taste of the Mediterranean.
Puglia is a paradise for lovers of southern culture and cuisine. Let yourself be carried away by the unique atmosphere - between Orient and Occident - while listening to the magic of the sea under a sky full of stars.
