Europe's luxury and secrecy just got a new contender: an Italian region deemed extremely plush and clandestine.
The Italian region of Puglia has been recognised as one of the 20 most luxurious and discreet destinations in Europe for 2025, according to the London-based travel agency CV Villas. This ranking highlights underrated luxury escapes that offer authentic and lesser-known experiences away from traditional tourist hotspots [1].
Located in the "heel of the Italian boot", Puglia is one of the most seductive destinations in Italy. Known for its diverse landscapes, the region boasts wild beaches of Salento, calcareous cliffs of Gargano, endless olive groves, and small whitewashed villages [2].
Puglia is home to architecturally significant masserias, converted into charming hotels. These traditional farmhouses or country estates offer a unique blend of authenticity and elegance [3]. The region's wild islands, with transparent coves, maritime pines, and absolute silence, add to its allure [4].
The media has highlighted Puglia as a destination offering a luxury experience focused on calm, nature, and local culture [5]. Among the selected destinations, Puglia is highlighted for its white villages, turquoise waters, and authentic masserias [6].
Umbria, Italy, tops the list, securing the 1st position, followed by Biarritz, France, and Paphos, Cyprus [1]. Emilia-Romagna, Italy, and Brittany, France, also feature in the top 15 [7].
Puglia ranks 16th in the same ranking, further emphasizing Italy's status as a unique destination. The region's cities, such as Bari and Lecce, add to its cultural appeal, while its culinary scene offers numerous good dining options, including a gastronomic capital worth visiting [8].
This ranking reflects a growing trend towards discovering less mainstream destinations that combine luxury with privacy and authenticity. France has six destinations featured, Italy and Spain have four each, highlighting these countries' diverse offerings beyond their most famous cities [1].
[1] https://www.cvvillas.com/blog/the-top-20-most-luxurious-and-discreet-destinations-in-europe-for-2025 [2] https://www.cvvillas.com/destinations/puglia [3] https://www.cvvillas.com/destinations/puglia/masserias [4] https://www.cvvillas.com/destinations/puglia/islands [5] https://www.cvvillas.com/destinations/puglia/luxury-experience [6] https://www.cvvillas.com/destinations/puglia/beautiful-villages [7] https://www.cvvillas.com/blog/the-top-20-most-luxurious-and-discreet-destinations-in-europe-for-2025 [8] https://www.cvvillas.com/destinations/puglia/gastronomy
In the 20 most luxurious and discreet destinations in Europe for 2025, Puglia is one destination that offers a unique blend of lifestyle, travel, and home-and-garden experiences, thanks to its charming masserias, wild islands, and diverse landscapes. When considering in-flights to lesser-known escapes away from traditional tourist hotspots, travelers might find Puglia's authenticity and elegance captivating.
