While there's no disputing that farming is hard work, we think it would be well worth the effort if you came home to this gorgeous stone farmhouse every day. That was the building's former life, however, and today it's the stunning setting for a Puglian getaway.

We're willing to bet that the hardest labour that a guest commits to here is a couple of lengths in the swimming pool, followed by a well-deserved rest in the hammock or underneath the verandah. When you've worked up a hunger, you can turn to the outdoor kitchen complete with a stone barbecue.

Inside, the traditional aspects, like the star-shaped stone vaults and authentic fireplaces, have been retained, but modern comforts have been tastefully added, too — the white wooden kitchen and sleek bathrooms being two prime examples.

When you're in the mood to explore, the seaside isn't too far away, with Torre Canne Beach only ten minutes' drive. The ancient pilgrimage route, Via Francigena, can be joined in five minutes' walk from the front door, while the centre of Fasano takes fifteen minutes to reach in the car.