7*Life loving jet-setters take note. Vista, the independent Italian hospitality group founded by the Passera family, has announced the highly anticipated opening of Vista Ostuni, a boutique hotel set within a meticulously restored 14th-century palazzo in the heart of Ostuni, also known as the ‘White City’ of Puglia. Slated to welcome guests in the summer of 2025, Vista Ostuni promises an intimate and immersive luxury experience in one of Italy’s most captivating regions.

Originally constructed as a convent, later repurposed as a tobacco-processing factory, the historic palazzo will now serve as an oasis of tranquillity with just 28 elegantly designed rooms and suites. By blending historical reverence with modern sophistication, the hotel is set to provide guests with an exclusive and serene retreat, offering an alternative way to explore the enchanting Apulian landscape.

Vista Ostuni is the brainchild of Bianca and Luigi Passera, the third and fourth generations of the Passera family, who have carefully curated the Vista brand to highlight Italy’s lesser-known yet equally stunning destinations. Their latest endeavour seeks to breathe new life into one of Ostuni’s most iconic landmarks while preserving its historical integrity.

The transformation is led by acclaimed architect Roberto Murgia of Milan’s RMA Studio, who has approached the design with a profound sensitivity to the palazzo’s origins and its surroundings. The 6,000 square metres of interior space have been carefully restored, accentuating its original features, from the grand entrance to the lofty ceilings, and a remarkable first-floor cloister bathed in natural light through a geometric glass ceiling. Every element of the hotel reflects a luminous Mediterranean vitality, with airy spaces, a year-round spa, and a sun-kissed pool terrace that captures the beauty of the region from dawn to dusk.

Vista Ostuni is set to be the first hotel in Italy designed by renowned Belgian landscape architect Erik Dhont, whose expertise in native vegetation will create lush, storytelling gardens deeply rooted in the Apulian environment. This green sanctuary will further enhance the guest experience, offering a peaceful retreat intertwined with the local landscape.

The culinary offerings at Vista Ostuni will be nothing short of extraordinary, overseen by Michelin-starred chef Andrea Berton. Guests will enjoy refined dining at Berton al Vista, while Bianca Bistrot offers a relaxed garden setting from breakfast through aperitivo. For more intimate moments, the Library Bar provides a secluded space for unwinding, while the rooftop bar offers breathtaking views of Ostuni and the rolling countryside, perfect for sunset cocktails.

While offering seclusion, Vista Ostuni places guests within easy reach of Puglia’s renowned coastal and cultural gems. Personalised experiences, from private transfers to the region’s most exclusive beach clubs to guided excursions to nearby Lecce, Matera, and Alberobello, ensure that visitors can fully embrace the region’s rich history and natural beauty.

Beyond luxury, Vista Ostuni represents a historical revival. The palazzo, which had been abandoned for nearly six decades, holds a rich past. Originally built as a convent in the 1300s, it became a shelter and educational institution for underprivileged girls in the 1800s under Sister Maria Raimonda Fuentes. Later, in the early 20th century, it was transformed into the Manifattura Tabacchi, employing 600 female cigar rollers at its peak before closing in 1969.

“From the moment we stepped inside, the building’s charm spoke to us,” said Bianca Passera, Chairwoman of Vista. “We have honoured the rich heritage of both the property and the town of Ostuni by incorporating sustainable Italian materials and resources, underscoring our commitment to environmental stewardship. Collaborating with skilled Italian artisans, we have preserved the essence of the space while working alongside visionary architects to create a fresh perspective—one that invites our guests to experience the property at its fullest potential.”

Vista Ostuni is not only a celebration of history but also a beacon of sustainability. It has already achieved LEED® certification, making it the first hotel in the entire Puglia region to receive this prestigious recognition for environmentally responsible construction and design.

As a member of the esteemed Leading Hotels of the World, Vista Ostuni sets a new benchmark in hospitality, blending world-class luxury with a deep respect for heritage and sustainability.

CEO Luigi Passera highlighted the significance of this latest opening: “Since the establishment of Vista, our objective has been to introduce the concept of luxury to new destinations, and Vista Ostuni represents the third and most significant chapter for our brand. This inauguration is a significant milestone for both our company and our family, following our openings on Lake Como and in Verona. Ostuni reaffirms our mission to offer travellers a new perspective on smaller jewel towns of Italy.”

`With its thoughtful restoration, unparalleled luxury, and commitment to sustainable hospitality, Vista Ostuni is poised to redefine the travel experience in Puglia. As the summer of 2025 approaches, anticipation grows for this remarkable addition to Italy’s boutique hotel landscape.