Rocco Forte Hotels is set to deepen its presence in southern Italy with the announcement of Masseria del Cardinale, a new luxury retreat scheduled to open in 2028 in Fasano. The property will become the group’s second hotel in Puglia, reinforcing the region’s growing appeal among high-end travellers and strengthening the brand’s Italian footprint.
The estate, leased through an agreement with PGIM’s real estate business, Re.vo, and developed in partnership with Dekus, is located in the scenic Itria Valley – an area celebrated for its olive groves, rolling countryside and historic whitewashed towns. The opening will follow the success of sister property Masseria Torre Maizza, which joined the Rocco Forte portfolio in 2019.
Masseria del Cardinale will offer eighty-six rooms and suites and bring together the signature elements of the Rocco Forte experience: refined dining, a relaxed bar, dedicated event spaces and an Irene Forte Spa. Guests will also enjoy a generous outdoor swimming pool set within the masseria’s restored grounds.
Design will be overseen by Olga Polizzi, Deputy Chairman and Director of Design at Rocco Forte Hotels, who will work alongside Luigi Fragola Architects, the acclaimed Florence-based studio known for balancing Italian heritage with contemporary elegance. The renovation will draw on the architectural vocabulary of traditional Puglian farm estates, interpreted through the group’s modern design sensibility.
“Puglia has earned a special place in the heart of our brand, the region represents one of Italy’s extraordinary excellences,” said Olga Polizzi, noting that Masseria del Cardinale will naturally complement the established success of Masseria Torre Maizza.
Charles Forte, Director of Development at Rocco Forte Hotels, added: “With four new openings planned over the next three years – Sardinia, Sicily, Naples, and now Puglia – the signing of Masseria del Cardinale is a clear indication of Italy’s continuing importance to the brand’s growth.”
With its expansion in Puglia, Rocco Forte Hotels continues to build a collection of properties that celebrate Italy’s regional diversity, while offering a consistent standard of contemporary luxury rooted in local culture.
