Canne Bianche, a Stylish Slice of Puglia
It all started with a blue door on the beach. One morning, out on his usual run, Antonio Mangano spotted it, opened it—and stepped into a new chapter. That moment became the beginning of Canne Bianche, named after the pale sunlit reeds that lined the shore. A hotel born from curiosity, sunshine, and the simple magic of the sea.
There’s something effortlessly soothing about privately owned Canne Bianche Lifestyle Hotel. Perhaps it’s the sea air, the soft rustle of palm trees, or the calm white-on-white palette that whispers understated luxury. What I do know is that the welcome was one of the warmest I’ve had in Puglia – Lesley messaged ahead of our late arrival to check if the restaurant could prepare something for us. A thoughtful gesture that set the tone for the rest of our stay; a plate of soft mozzarella with tomato, fresh bread and a selection of cheeses, meats and salamis - with a bottle of delicious local white wine.
The rooms are simple yet classic – think cool stone floors, crisp white linens, and balconies for early morning coffee or sunset spritzes. My bathroom had a vast walk-in shower, plenty of fluffy towels and, yes, flannels – always a win in my book. My mother’s suite came with a jacuzzi bath – cue bubbles and bliss.
Gilda at Canne Bianche
Gilda is one of the stars of the show – charming, funny, and faultless in her service – and Anna stepped up beautifully when her colleague was away, running La Boutique with calm professionalism. The shop itself is a little treasure trove, filled with beautiful Italian brands and a rainbow of linen shirts, trousers and dresses you’ll want to live in all summer long.
Breakfast here deserves its own moment – I’d go so far as to say it’s the best I’ve had in Puglia. Tart after tart, perfectly baked breads and buttery pastries, fresh fruit, a bounty of ricotta, mozzarella, prosciutto, smoked salmon and eggs just how you like them. The coffee? Exactly as you’d hope – strong, smooth, and served with a smile.
The hotel’s pool is large and peaceful – and with the newly opened pool bar, there’s no need to move far for a refreshing spritz or snack. And just beyond the gardens, you’ll find the beach – complete with a swing to watch the sun slip into the sea. Pure magic.
Attention to detal at Canne Bianche
The spa ticks every box too, with a hydrotherapy pool, steam room, sauna, Swedish and emotional showers (yes, it’s a thing), and a calm relaxation space. There’s also a proper gym if you’re that way inclined.
My only very small quibble? The main restaurant. It’s trying a little too hard – the food is overcomplicated, and the layout of the tables in the glassed area makes it feel a little crowded when it’s full. My advice? Sit inside in the main restaurant area and order either the mouthwatering T-bone or one of the delicious wood-fired pizzas, which I only found out about on my last night!
Canne Bianche gets so much right – and with staff like Lesley, Gilda, the two Annas, Riccardo, it feels like a very happy ship indeed. A perfect base to experience the best of Puglia, with plenty of style and heart.
Rating: 9/10
Reviewed: May 2025
Why go? The location is stunning, and it’s just 30 minutes from Brindisi Airport. I stayed for four nights which was perfect, although i would have loved to have stayed a week!
When? May is a lovely time to go though some sleepy shops aren’t quite open yet.
Who for? Couples and girlfriends. Families are welcome, and there’s no better place to stay during the summer.