Relais Masseria Villa Cenci in Cisternino

I went to this facility for an event planning appointment. Unfortunately, the experience was very disappointing. Due to a slight delay, caused by getting lost, I arrived about 15 minutes after the scheduled time. Despite this, the person I was supposed to meet wasn't present. I waited over 20 minutes, while the very kind and helpful receptionist showed me around the venue. In the end, the manager never showed up, and I was forced to leave without any explanation. A facility that organizes events should demonstrate greater professionalism and respect for their clients' time.

On arrival no one advised regarding an issue with the swimming pool. We were shocked to go to it and find the pool bright green in colour. We enquired at reception and were advised the pool was being tested routinely and it was safe for guests to use. Staff advised it had been like that for 6 days and was due to grass cuttings blowing into the pool. We did not use the pool as we had safety concerns. The next day I asked to speak to the hotel Director regarding my concerns but he was not on site and reception staff did not know when he would visit next. I asked if the hotel had informed the ASL (local health authority) of the bright green pool issue and the fact that it was open for use but I did not receive an answer. I suggested the pool needed to be closed for guest safety, a notice informing guests of the issue and further testing for bacteria. Within an hour my suggestions were implemented and they starting to drain the pool. I never did get to use the pool during my 4 day stay and I never did get to speak to the Hotel Director about the issue. The hotel itself is in a beautiful setting and the guest facing staff extremely pleasant. Actions by Hotel Management in responding to the bright green pool issue was not to my personal standard as in my view guest safety is their highest priority. The trip was spoiled not so much by the lack of use of the swimming pool (mistakes do happen) but the response to the issue and lack of availability to Hotel Management.

Plastic cups/ an aggressive waiter at breakfast who was more interested in watching videos loudly as we ate, sat nav takes you to an entrance they have blocked off, 10am check out…dead plants on our stained private terrace…..seriously not worth the money. Which is a shame as the location and pool are lovely and the waitress and front of house man were lovely and very kind. It misses the mark in so many ways.