Don Ferrante, Monopoli, Puglia, Italy
Once an ancient fortress on the reef: the sparkling Adriatic on one side; and Monopoli's old town on the other (both perfectly spied upon by the hotel's crowning glory, its split-level rooftop terrace, which acts as the restaurant, bar and relaxation area, complete with a natty little infinity plunge pool), Don Ferrante is one of those boutique beauties you'll instantly fall in love with and never want to leave.
Ten vaulted rooms looking out to sea or over the pretty Puglian streets fuse modern, contemporary class with dreamy décor; a homely-yet-elegant restaurant is set in a 16th-century gunpowder cellar; and steps lead directly down to Monopoli's public rocky beach.