5 Senses of Puglia

Once you arrive in the beautiful city of Bari, we’ll transport you to your new home for the week, where you can relax and unwind for the afternoon. Come evening time, we’ll take you to one of the local eateries to enjoy locally produced drinks and fine foods to sate your appetite. We’ll also give an overview of the exciting activities awaiting you this week.

Known as the white city, Ostuni is the first thing on our agenda where you’ll be able to shop, explore the area and enjoy food from any number of the local stores and eateries. Next, we’ll meet up at a local trattoria for an exciting lunch, followed by a tantalising olive oil taste testing in the afternoon, courtesy of one of the oldest Pugliese oil producers in the region. If you didn’t know; Puglia plays host to no fewer than 60 million olive trees and their locally produced oils are a staple part of the daily diet in the region. Lastly, you’ll get to enjoy dinner in the evening on us!

We’ll be up bright and early for breakfast as a trip to Matera – the host of the 2019 European Capital of Culture – is on the cards this morning. This ancient location is well known for its primitive homes, which are commonly renovated to blend antiquity with a modern appeal. You’ll get to take part in a guided tour of the city, which will be followed with free time to enjoy as you please. To help you relax after a day of excitement, we’ll arrange dinner once you’re back at your accommodation and will undoubtedly want to discuss your exciting outing to a region chosen by UNESCO to feature a World Heritage Site, as well as having played host to the film The Passion of the Christ.

After a leisurely breakfast, we’ll make our way to a local Caseificio, where you’ll get to witness first-hand how Mozzarella cheese is made! You’ll also get to enjoy a spot of taste testing to whet your appetite. From there we will make our way to Polignano a Mare – a part of the region featuring crystal clear water and ancient caves – and you’ll see just why it’s called the Pearl of the Adriatic. You’ll also likely appreciate knowing that the ruins of four watchtowers can still be found in this location, which used to overlook the region back in the days of its Spanish, Byzantine and Norman ownership. In the afternoon, we’ll head to a local trattoria for lunch and then for dinner back at the Masseria.

The stunningly baroque architecture of Lecce has led to this city becoming a firm favourite amongst photographers – and this is where we’ll be heading this morning. Widely regarded as the New Florence of Italy, you’ll find plenty to see and do, whilst being guided on a tour of the area. Whether you’re a fan of fine dining, or a follower of centuries-old architecture, you’ll love the time you have in Lecce. We’ll eat lunch here and then visit Otranto – an elegant sea-front region with its own traditions and activities. You’ll have the afternoon to explore this gorgeous town, have a swim, or simply enjoy a drink overlooking the water. The Romanesque cathedral stands pivotal within the town and still features its original 12th Century floor mosaics. Late afternoon we will make our way back to the Masseria, where a local chef will have dinner prepared for your arrival – and we’re sure that you’ll enjoy every bite of your meal.

This morning we will be starting with a trip to the UNISECO site of Alberobello, where you’ll be treated to a guided tour through the Trulli and learn more about this historic town, which has been a World Heritage Site for almost 25 years. From there we will make our way back to the accommodation where our chef will prepare a typical ‘light Pugliese’ lunch. You will then have this afternoon to go for a bike ride, laze by the pool or read a book.

Mid to late afternoon, in Italian style we will make our way into the local township of Locorotondo which you can explore at your own pace. Unlike other parts of Puglia, Locorotondo is notable for its lack of tourist attractions; being one of the last bastions of traditions in the area.

We will then all meet in the main square for an aperitivo prior to a delightful dinner.

During this free day, you’ll get to choose which activities you take part in; from an exciting cooking experience, all the way to a morning in Ostuni, a cycling tour, yoga, or an optional day tour to suit your preference.

With a final breakfast to say goodbye to you and thank you for choosing us, we’ll take you back to Bari where you’ll catch your flight and take away iconic memories to last a lifetime!