Amidst hundreds of acres of olive groves, roughly half an hour from Matera, lies this stone masseria with watch tower and dovecote. A handsome medieval building, it’s been in the D’Urso family since the 16th century and today owner Emilia, the founder of the local Slow Food movement in their area, is based in nearby Bari. Bedrooms have an imposing selection of antique furniture: dark wood armoires and side tables, paintings, bedspreads and tiled floors. Bathrooms are basic but fresh and tiled in white. Step out onto the terrace for views over the centuries-old oak forest which runs right up to the door. Wander through the orchards, relax in the walled garden, or take a dip in the small pool. The Murgia Park Natural Reserve is yours to explore, and nearby towns Altamura, Trani and Polignano are all within reach. Food is central to the experience and chef Francesco ratchets up the quality; for breakfast, try almond cakes and the farm’s own fruit nectars. For dinner, served in the former stables, there’s homemade pasta with almond pesto and saveloy torittese with wild herbs and home grown organic vegetables.
Wonderfully setting. Friendly and informative hosts who were genuinely interested in their guests. Fabulous breakfast and dinner. The chef took pride in his creations. Always delicious and full of surprises. Excellent wines. Altogether an experience of Puglia worth choosing above others. We booked in 2020 and had to wait three years to visit. So worth the wait!