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.
The hosts were very friendly and knowledgeable about the area and especially the family and masseria history, 5 centuries' worth! This is a genuine masseria and close to Bari and its airport as well as other key areas in Puglia. It's quiet and down to earth with traditional furniture and style.