Independent Minds: Steven Riseley, Castle Elvira

Crumbling castle it might have been for over a century, but Steven Riseley and husband, Harvey B-Brown, are writing their own contemporary fairy-tale at Castle Elvira in Puglia. Following a four-year restoration project with local craftsmen working to keep the original ceilings and stonework intact, the creative couple could finally dress the walls with Harvey’s own artwork and infuse the interiors with eccentricity and playfulness — qualities which carry over into the light-hearted but ever-so-luxurious guest experience.

My philosophy is that when guests first arrive at a hotel, they shouldn't feel they have to fit in; instead, they should feel completely relaxed and at home.

Do you have a vision for the future of the hotel?

Our vision remains steadfast, and our commitment to it is unwavering. We strive to create a one-of-a-kind oasis of beauty and tranquillity, a space where guests can feel both inspired and safe. Our guests endorse our efforts and frequently return. Admittedly, Castle Elvira is not for everyone, but we believe that this knowledge, at the same time, contributed to our success. This should hold true for many independent hotels, if you create a hotel that appeals to everyone, then you have probably produced something considered off-the-shelf. We like to go beyond the tried and tested, and prioritise attracting our tribe rather than every type of traveller.

Previous

How to spend a short break in Syros, Greece

Next

12 of the world’s most photogenic hotel pools

Latest stories

The art of doing nothing, perfected in the Maldives

In a world that praises packed itineraries, early-morning flights, and the humblebrag of needing a vacation from your vacation, slow travel can feel almost counterintuitive. It’s a conscious shift away from the pursuit of more, a choice to be present, to truly know a place, and maybe, just maybe, to

Turning nature into nourishment on a remote Norwegian island

On a small island a short boat ride from Herdla, where salt carries on Arctic winds, sustainability isn’t a slogan — it’s the rhythm of life. At Lilløy Lindenberg, the days move with the tides: seaweed is foraged from the surrounding shallows by chef Antje de Vries, whose vegan, season-driven

The must-know boutique hotels of 2025: SLH award winners revealed

As SLH marks 35 years of celebrating independently minded stays, this year’s awards spotlight the hotels redefining boutique luxury around the world. Handpicked by our travel experts and voted for by our passionate community, the 2025 winners are stylish, soulful stays to have firmly on your radar. Bookmark this list

Tuscany, not as you know it: inside La Roqqa’s riviera escape

In the mid-20th century, Porto Ercole was a hot spot for the Hollywood jet-set. Now, design-led La Roqqa is putting this quaint seaside town – and Tuscany’s unsung Argentario coast – back on the international crowd’s map.