Celebrities love them, tourists would travel for countless hours just to stay in one and brands can’t stop using them to shoot their campaigns. You definitely follow a few masserias on Instagram already – but which are the best in the business? Our own Alessia Armenise gives us a tour of the most beautiful masserias in Puglia.
Once a secluded part of Italy that tourists didn’t seem to bother to discover, for the last few years Puglia has been at the top of anyone travel list. Editors rave about the beauty of it, foodies drool over the delicious-looking food made by expert nonne, and Instagrammers can’t get enough of the amazing backdrops worth thousands of likes that can be found in masserias all over the region.
Justin Timberlake and Jessica Biel – who got married at Borgo Egnazia in the province of Brindisi – are just one of the many couples flying to Italy every year to tie the knot in one of Puglia’s iconic farmhouses. They are so pretty, people are happy to spend thousands and transport their whole families across the globe to celebrate. Thanks to rising demand from all over the world, in the last few years we have seen more and more masserias popping up – but which ones are really worth a visit? We selected the best ones to save you some precious planning time.
Masseria Torre Coccaro
Torre Coccaro is more than a masseria, it’s everything any member of the family might want, all in one place. A beautiful hotel, both romantic and great for children; an amazing beach club; a golf club and a fabulous spa signed AVEDA.
Masseria Torre Maizza
A Rocco Forte hotel, Torre Maizza is another amazing place offering a private beach, a golf course, a spa and a rooftop terrace to enjoy the magical Puglian sunsets. The big plus? They offer a dreamy air-balloon experience which includes a classic Italian aperitivo, in the sky.
Masseria San Domenico
An uber-luxury experience, difficult to forget, San Domenico offers a thalasso spa that it’s worth the trip in itself. Add a golf course, not one but two beach clubs and, of course, delicious food and you are all set for a great holiday.
Masseria Le Carrube
Located next to one of the most beautiful cities in Puglia, Ostuni, Le Carrube is perfect if you want to relax but also visit the region. A particularity of this masseria is their commitment to their values. The restaurant, lead by chef Massimo Santoro, is vegetarian and revisits the classics of Puglian cuisine using delicious, local and seasonal vegetables.
Masseria Potenti
Potenti took Instagram by storm when they opened and they are now on every list of the places to visit in the region. The family-run hotel has a warm charm that is sometimes lost when hotels become popular. Travellers go for the beauty of the masseria and they return to visit Maria Grazia and their family.
Masseria Moroseta
If your passion is food, you need to visit Moroseta and their talented chef, Giorgia Eugenia Goggi. Start your trip by following their Instagram account and prepare to salivate.
Masseria Le Torri
In one of the most visited places in Puglia, Polignano a Mare, Le Torri is a masseria that really feels like home. From cookery classes to dolce far niente (‘sweet idleness’ in Italian), you will come back home relaxed and probably a bit heavier.
Masseria Trapana‘
Located only fifteen minutes away from Lecce city centre, Trapana’ is a great place to spend a sun-soaked weekend in Puglia eating, tanning and enjoying the beauty of the region.
Masseria il Frantoio
Another gem tucked away near the lovely town of Ostuni; Il Frantoio is a place that will stay in your heart. This masseria has the luxury standards of a five-star hotel and the warmth of a family home – making your stay there extra special.
Borgo Egnazia
Beloved by celebrities and influencers, Borgo Egnazia is 360 degrees luxury experience that includes a Michelin starred restaurant, private villas (with their own private pools), a golf club and tennis courts.
Lead image: Masseria Torre Maizza
