What is the name of your accommodation? 

La Villa Magnifica

Could you introduce yourself and share a bit about your life, such as your interests, hobbies, or background? 

We are John Jaspers and Maartje van Mensvoort, and we live in a village near Eindhoven with our three daughters aged 11, 10 and 7. John runs his own construction management company, and Maartje works as a freelance communications consultant for various clients in the public sector. We both love Italy, delicious food, hospitality and taking on a challenging project.

How did your property become part of your life? When did it happen, and what inspired or motivated you to take it on?

We dreamed of a family home where we could share special moments together. Three years ago, we found the perfect plot: an idyllic spot in the countryside, with sea views and close to charming villages like Ostuni and main roads. Just 3 km away lies the Torre Guaceto nature reserve, perfect for walking, swimming, and snorkeling. On a clear day, the well-known tower can even be seen in the distance from La Villa Magnifica.

Architect Pietro Serio designed the house, where modern design effortlessly blends with Mediterranean warmth, visible in details such as the hand-carved stones on the exterior. Our Italian contractor then brought the house to life. The project took three years and resulted in a place that radiates tranquility, elegance, and a touch of Italian magic.

What was the process of creating your property like? Tell us about renovating, furnishing, or styling it.

We wanted to bring the comfort we know from the Netherlands to Puglia. The kitchen was designed and custom-made in the Netherlands, as were the built-in wardrobes. Comfortable box-spring beds were also essential. Maartje was able to fully indulge her passion for styling and color. Together with a stylist, she created an interior that is sleek yet inviting, featuring light tones and a harmonious mix of textures in fabrics and materials.The hand-shaped Zellige tiles in the bathrooms were ordered in the Netherlands but originate from Morocco. 

What makes your property truly special to you? Do you have any favorite spots, cherished memories, or personal touches that make it dear to your heart?

We watched this house come to life from the ground up. Every corner has been carefully considered. We never dared to dream it would all come together so beautifully and feel so magical. When we are there, we enter a world of complete tranquility.

How would you describe the atmosphere and interior of your property?

The interior is modern, yet warm and serene. The villa features a mix of materials. The combination of wood and rattan, along with the sea view through the large windows, creates a true holiday feeling.

Are there any sustainable or eco-friendly applications associated with your property that you are proud of?

The entire house is insulated and ventilated, which is not standard in Puglia. This provides a great level of comfort, both in the hot summer months and in winter.

What motivated or inspired you to rent your property to guests? 

We hope others will enjoy this place just as much as we do. We are proud of La Villa Magnifica and want to maintain both the house and the surrounding 10,000 m² of land with care.

What can guests expect when staying at your accommodation? Share the experience, the highlights, and perhaps the best compliment you’ve received from past guests.

We will open to guests in April next year, and this week we already received our first bookings. It’s wonderful that guests are already finding us – and exciting, because we want every guest to have a fantastic experience at La Villa Magnifica. We will do everything we can to make that happen. Fortunately, we have a wonderful Italian host who will assist guests during their stay whenever needed.

What do you hope guests will take away from their stay, and do you have any special tips or recommendations to make their holiday unforgettable? 

That they create special memories here, unwind completely, and enjoy the surroundings, the sea breeze, the beautiful light around the villa and all the luxury La Villa Magnifica offers.

And regarding tips to make their stay unforgettable, we always recommend dining at the small trattoria La Cantina in Carovigno. Order the antipasti menu and you will be amazed by what comes out of that tiny kitchen. The entire table is filled with the most delicious and fresh dishes. Wonderful.

And above all, enjoy being together. The entire villa is designed for that, with cosy corners, terraces and seating areas all around the private pool, both in the sun and in the shade.