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HOTELS & RESTAURANTS, beyond mainstream

Roots and Refinement: Masseria Donna Menga by THDP

Stella Manferdini

HOTELS & RESTAURANTS, beyond mainstream

07.03.25

Keywords:

Creations , High-end hospitality , Heritage , History

Amidst the rolling countryside of Salento, just a stone’s throw from the pristine beaches of Porto Cesareo, lies Masseria Donna Menga – a sanctuary of history, design, and sustainability. This five-star retreat, a proud member of the prestigious Leading Hotels of the World (LHW), is a masterful blend of past and present, where architectural heritage meets contemporary luxury. Spearheaded by THDP, the restoration of this 16th-century masseria, protected by the Superintendency for Cultural Heritage, was a meticulous process aimed at preserving its authentic essence. The name “Donna Menga” pays homage to Domenica, a historical figure whose enigmatic story lingers in the air, adding to the charm of this unique destination.

Masseria Donna Menga, Nardó, Salento, Puglia, THDP <br /> Image copyright: @Sergio de Riccardis

Masseria Donna Menga, Nardó, Salento, Puglia, THDP
Image copyright: @Sergio de Riccardis

Embracing the philosophy of ‘less is more,’ THDP approached the project with a commitment to sustainability and minimal intervention. “We wanted to retain the soul of the structure,” explains architect Manuela Mannino. “Sustainability was our guiding principle, with local materials such as Lecce stone, oiled wood, and wrought iron seamlessly integrated into the design. This is a truly plastic-free project.”

The masseria’s 21 rooms reflect this ethos of authenticity, featuring bespoke furnishings handcrafted from solid oiled oak by local artisans. The original stone vaults, restored to their former glory, and walls finished with natural hydraulic lime preserve the building’s historic character. Every detail tells a story, seamlessly weaving together tradition and modern comfort.

Steeped in history, Masseria Donna Menga was once a hub for drying tobacco and tomatoes. Today, its layout remains true to its past, with a central courtyard surrounded by three main wings. The former carriage passage, now enclosed with an expansive glass window, houses the reception and a cosy lounge, offering views of the inner garden. Alongside this space, four guest rooms showcase original vaulted ceilings and serene garden vistas.

Masseria Donna Menga, Nardó, Salento, Puglia, THDP <br /> Image copyright: @Barbara Santoro

Masseria Donna Menga, Nardó, Salento, Puglia, THDP
Image copyright: @Barbara Santoro

The lateral wing, once home to horse stables and fountains, now hosts seven beautifully appointed garden rooms, while a grand tower stands as the architectural highlight. Here, a suite has been crafted with utmost sensitivity to its historic structure, ensuring its openings and facade remain untouched. Two junior suites, featuring plunge pools and generous outdoor lounges, provide a secluded escape within this haven of tranquillity.

Outside, nature takes centre stage. Reed pergolas and wooden beams provide shade, while oversized ceramic jars and handcrafted woven straw lamps lend a touch of rustic elegance. The landscape, designed with water conservation in mind, is a curated tapestry of succulents and Mediterranean flora that harmonise effortlessly with the Salento environment.

The communal spaces are a celebration of nature and interaction. A serene pool, a boutique spa with a hammam, a massage room, and a state-of-the-art Technogym fitness centre invite relaxation and rejuvenation. At the heart of the experience lies ‘Radici,’ the on-site restaurant, where an organic garden provides fresh ingredients for dishes that honour local traditions with a modern, sustainable twist.

Masseria Donna Menga, Nardó, Salento, Puglia, THDP
Image copyright: @Barbara Santoro

The reception area echoes the spirit of upcycling, with decorative panels repurposed from old worktables and locally crafted lamps fashioned by a fisherman, embodying the deep-rooted connection to the region. The spa, a haven of relaxation, is adorned with natural stone, wood, and glossy blue tiles, evoking an atmosphere of understated luxury.

Minimalist yet indulgent, the rooms and suites are the epitome of refined simplicity. Custom-made solid wood furniture, local stone flooring, and handcrafted lighting set the stage for an experience that is both luxurious and environmentally conscious. “There is no plastic here,” affirms Mannino. “Every element is designed to enhance authenticity and sustainability.”

The 21 accommodations include three expansive suites with private patios, perfect for those seeking an intimate retreat. Each room opens onto a private garden, while those located in the former stables overlook the inner courtyard and pool, reinforcing the property’s historic charm. The bathrooms, inspired by the site’s agricultural heritage, feature open-plan layouts with showers and sinks reminiscent of traditional livestock fountains, complemented by bronze fixtures that nod to the wrought iron tools of the past.

A unique design touch lies behind the wardrobes, clad in natural raffia wallpaper—a tribute to the reed canopies found in traditional Salento architecture. Bedside lamps, handcrafted by the local fisherman encountered during material sourcing, add a deeply personal and artisanal flair. Meanwhile, bedside tables hewn from Lecce stone monoliths ground the spaces in rustic elegance, while the classic stone flooring pattern bridges the gap between past and present.