Vacation retreats in Puglia that embody "slow living"
Puglia is a region in the southern part of Italy that has been famous among Italians for quite some time and has recently had an influx of new visitors as of late. It wasn't the best-connected part of Italy, so when airlines opened routes to cities such as Brindisi and Bari, it was convenient for Italian expats or Erasmus students returning home to see family and friends. Today the region attracts cultural travellers that want to do more than tick yet another destination off their list. Sure, there are those that simply want to capture a selfie beside the Trulli rooftops in the ever-popular Alberobello town but there is so much more to see and discover.
Pure relaxation in a quiet nook at rustic Masseria Potenti Image © Masseria Potenti
A certain richness is attained when staying in Puglia. The region is unapologetically authentic and we experienced that firsthand whilst staying at Masseria Potenti. Hospitality goes above and beyond. The food is colourful, inviting, homely and delicious, always using locally sourced ingredients and relatively healthy and served on spotty plates that you’ll want to take home. This property has an effortless rustic yet chic style that is forever picture-worthy. Maria and her family have lovingly opened the doors to their boutique estate and aside from welcoming guests into all things Apulian, their space is used for shoots, workshops, and breathtaking weddings. A stay here will have you wanting to extend your holiday in Puglia.
An incredible view of the neighbouring green surroundings at Masseria Alchimia Image © Masseri Alchimia
Another example is Masseria Alchimia, a splendid simple and stylish design retreat in Fasano. The property is ideal for a romantic escape with self-catered suites set among olive trees and lots of leafy outdoor spaces to relax in. Perfectly situated alongside neighbours Masseria Lama di Pecora and Minimarket "Da Franco" who happen to produce biological food such as fresh fruit, vegetables, bread, cheeses, jams, and more, for guests to purchase and whip up meals back at their Puglian hideaway. Beautiful estates with acres of land, connections to well-sourced products, and effortless hospitality are just a few reasons why people return to the region.
Open and inviting long wooden table for sharing dishes and memories Image © Salva Lopez
The resident pug at Masseria Moroseta enjoying the comforts of slow life Image © Salva Lopez
Masseria Moroseta is an architect’s dream, exuding sheer simplicity with its stark white building in contrast to the leafy landscape surrounding it. The boutique property has been featured in numerous design and travel magazines but what is amazing about this relative newbie in comparison to its "competitors", is that it remains connected to its environment. A stay at this Masseria means, hitting the snooze button, eventually having breakfast at the long wooden table in the kitchen, and relaxing poolside. Although you can venture quite easily by car to other areas, there isn’t a sense of pressure to do so. It is a Masseria to...simply be. The project successfully designed by Andrew Trotter continues to attract people worldwide and the studio has now gone on to build another Puglian retreat.
A presiding and noble tree on the grounds of new property Villa Castellucio Image © Salva Lopez
Locally sourced food on the bespoke marble counter top at Villa Castellucio Image © Salva Lopez
Image © Salva Lopez
Villa Castelluccio is a new addition to Ceglia in Puglia, which has been renovated carefully using traditional building methods. The 3 bedrooms, 3 bathroom house is encircled by olive trees and oozes a rustic edge. In keeping with Masseria Moroseta, it has a contemporary flair, with bespoke kitchen tops, concrete bathroom sinks, and a modern fireplace. Guests can enjoy meals alfresco with nature as your uninvited guest and nothing short of good vibes.
The picturesque white stone walls of boutique bed and breakfast, Fikus Image © Marta Puglia
Owners Luisa and Francesco returned to Puglia after living abroad for many years. Keen to have a more “slow” lifestyle paired with their international charm and working capabilities, they decided to set up a charming boutique B&B, Fikus. A 10-minute drive from Ceglie Messapica, this is the place to go to should you wish to participate in a cooking class with Luisa herself, relax in the garden, and spend time poolside with the white conical trullo roof in view. It’s ridiculously homely, you can even pick ripe figs from the trees and literally enjoy the fruits of the labour. Breakfast consists of two menus to reflect each owner but there’s also a buffet option available. Other moments such as private dining on your terrace, wellness treatments, and excursions can all be arranged by the team.
