In the city of Ostuni, located on a hill overlooking the Adriatic Sea, my husband and I discovered a boutique hotel that redefined our idea of luxury travel – Paragon 700.
From the moment we arrived, Paragon 700 enveloped us in a sense of tranquility. The hotel, a renovated 17th century palazzo perched at the top of Ostuni, felt like a secluded sanctuary despite its very close proximity to the vibrant life of the town center.
As we checked in, we were welcomed with a delightful zero-proof gin mocktail and escorted to the gardens by the pool. The gardens were meticulously maintained and offered a surprisingly spacious outdoor space to relax and unwind.
Accommodation
Our accommodation was nothing short of palatial. Our room featured an impressive vaulted and frescoed ceiling and thoughtfully curated decor (which you can also find in every corner of Paragon). The bathroom, with its stunning soaking tub and shower, became our personal spa after a long day of exploring the surrounding area.
We felt like royalty and slept like it too. The twice-a-day room turnover and the constant supply of sparkling water didn’t hurt either. Each of the 11 rooms in Paragon 700 is distinctly unique (not to mention the common areas), yet there’s a seamless harmony throughout the entire hotel.
Michelin-Level Cuisine
Breakfast by the pool was an event to look forward to each morning. Eating outside on the hotel grounds was one of the biggest highlights of our entire Italy trip. We personally preferred the hotel’s breakfast over the other offerings in town because the experience was that good. – and a perk that was included with our booking.and a perk that was included with our booking.
The first night of our stay we ate dinner at Restaurant 700, Paragon’s on-site restaurant. It was beyond exceptional. Newly appointed to the Michelin guide and also appearing in Gambero Rosso, not to mention edging towards a Michelin star, Restaurant 700 offered a ‘chef’s choice’ menu that was both creative and suprisingly filling. The food, presentation, and service were impeccable – a 10 out of 10. The Puglian wine we chose to accompany our dinner was fantastic and the first of many bottles consumed on the trip (at least by Dan as he was drinking for two since I was pregnant).
If you’re a cocktail fan, then the Bar at Paragon will be your main event. There is a epically imaginative cocktail menu using local ingredients and spirits. If you want something off-menu, the mixologists will certainly create anything you can think of. Paragon 700 also makes its own gin which was fantastic (and also available to purchase). If your sober or sober-curious, then you’re in luck – the Bar at Paragon serves mocktails that would probably fool even the most avid cocktail aficionados.
While the hotel doesn’t have a fitness center, you’ll get plenty of exercise hiking up and down Ostuni’s hills. If you fancy a massage, Paragon’s luxury spa on site is small and intimate, although the services are far beyond anything you’d experience at bigger name-brand resorts. In the far corner of the grounds, there is a small lemon grove where you can swing in a hammock and read a book.
Set against a giant white wall, Paragon features the only hotel pool within the city walls of Ostuni; The pool was perfect for cooling off from the Apulian heat after a long day of exploring the countryside. The oversized loungers, more like queen-sized beds, made for a perfect afternoon napping spot. Not to mention you can enjoy anything from the bar via excellent poolside service.
Staff Make the Stay
What truly set Paragon 700 apart was their staff. They remembered our names, were incredibly friendly and accommodating, and spoke excellent English. They were more than willing to make reservations, offer recommendations, or simply sit and chat, adding that personal touch that is often lacking in the big hotel chains. They were always willing to go the extra step to make our stay even more enjoyable than it already was.
Exploring Ostuni and Surrounding Area
The town of Ostuni sits on a hilltop overlooking the Adriatic and endless olive groves. During the day, there is hum of people going about their daily lives, but it really comes alive in the evening about a little before sunset. The main piazza, just a short walk down the hill from Paragon 700, bustles with families, friends, and tourists alike taking in the views, enjoying aperitivos, and strolling about the various shops lining the alleys. Our favorite spot, Bar Perso, had sweeping views of the Mediterranean.
Ostuni also serves as a great base to explore the surrounding region. You can get to most of the major towns within an hour, often less. There are various beach clubs about a 25 to 30 minute drive away, and the staff at Paragon can help you make a reservation at any of them. From Ostuni, we were able to explore Pogliano a Mare (and have dinner at the Grotto Palozzeze), Lecce, and enjoy the chic Lido Bambu beach club. We highly recommend renting a car to explore, and you can park your car on site at Paragon 700. Renting a car is especially important since the closest airports in Bari or Brindisi are 45 minutes to an hour away.
Overall Verdict: Beyond Expectations
Every aspect of Paragon 700, from its location to the food, drinks, service, and rooms, was exceptional. It’s not just a place to stay; it’s a complete sensory experience in a region with no shortage of things to enjoy and explore. We could have easily spent our entire time in Italy there and felt like we had not missed out on anything.
If I could give Paragon 700 more than 5 stars, I would. Leaving was a struggle; the hotel had become our sanctuary. I wholeheartedly recommend it to couples or solo travelers (as the hotel also hosts many social events throughout the year open to guests and locals alike). As it is an adults only hotel, leave the kids at home with the grandparents.
Paragon 700 is not just a boutique hotel; it’s a journey into a world of unique luxury and comfort in an ancient and beautiful part of the world and a destination in its own right. Needless to say, we cannot wait to stay there again very soon.
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