Magical Puglia

October 2-9, 2021

$5,800.00/person

Explore the fairytale “Trulli” stone huts and unique architecture of Puglia’s towns, from Alberobello and incredible Matera to Lecce, Ostuni, and Polignano a Mare. Join us on a journey of appreciation of farm & sea-to-table cuisine as you experience first-hand the relaxed way of life in Southern Italy. We’ll blend culture and cuisine on this unique adventure.

Inquire now

Overview

Enchanting, Magical & Unspoiled. This is Puglia. Italy’s most secluded coast boasting miles of ancient olive orchards, vineyards and a slow-paced culture. This region is celebrated for its rustic organic cuisine, ancient wonders, and charming locals. A sun-drenched coastline and stunning Baroque cathedrals are just a taste of this alluring coastal gem. We’ll explore this breathtaking area, spread lengthwise and bordered by the Adriatic and Ionian Seas.

Embrace this picturesque region also known as “the heel of the boot” of Italy, bordered with hundreds of kilometres of Mediterranean coastline and dotted with small villages in shades of white and gold.

Savor the culinary pleasures of Puglia. From world-renowned wine & olive oil to gastronomic cuisine, with local and Michelin star chefs.

Itinerary

Day 1

Arrival – Bari Airport at 10:20 am – Alitalia Flight #1617 from Rome

After arriving and getting your luggage, please proceed to the exit. Oronzo, our driver, will be there to welcome you.  Approximately a 30 minute drive to Monopoli, depending on traffic.

7:30 pm – Welcome Dinner at Masseria Garrappa

Day 2

Ancient Olive Trees, Michelin Star Dining & Ostuni

Breakfast

9:15 am Departure – Following breakfast, we will visit the impressive olive orchards of Masseria Brancati – This Masseria (farmhouse) has olive trees that are thousands of years old. A sight to be seen, with a visit to the ancient mill, tour of the property and olive oil tastings. This is a  secular olive orchard dating back to the Roman era.

After our visit, we will enjoy a very special lunch at Al Fornello da Ricci, one of the first    restaurants in Southern Italy to receive a Michelin Star.

We will walk off our wonderful lunch in Ostuni – This unique historic city is regarded as an architectural jewel and is commonly referred to as the “white town”. One of the most beautiful and famous towns in Puglia, with its baroque-style churches, great architecture and culture that characterizes this part of South Italy.

Dinner – Monopoli – Time to be confirmed

Day 3

Baroque Beauty in Lecce & Vineyards

Breakfast

8:30 am Departure – Today we will visit the historical and beautiful town of Lecce. Because of the rich Baroque architectural monuments found in the city, Lecce is commonly nicknamed “The Florence of the South”.

A private walking tour of the city, starting with a “pasticciotto”, a typical dessert of Puglia and a caffè. Enjoy some leisure time to discover and shop.

On our return to Monopoli, we will visit Li Veli Vineyard. Enjoy a tour of the winery and tastings of Negroamaro and Primitivo wines with a lovely lunch in a beautiful setting.

Dinner – Monopoli  – Time to be confirmed

Day 4

Cooking “Pugliese”!

9:45 am Departure – Following a “suggested” light breakfast, we will depart to a beautiful Masseria to enjoy a cooking experience. A hands-on cooking class, where one of our favourite Italian Nonnas will share her rich culinary traditions, as we have fun making typical Pugliese dishes. Lunch will be the fruits of our labour with tastings of Puglia wines.

Dinner – Monopoli  – At our leisure

Day 5

Magical Alberobello & Local Specialties

Breakfast

8:30 am Departure – Today we will visit Alberobello – A UNESCO World Heritage Site – A   private guided tour has been arranged as we step back in time visiting the famous “trullo” – fascinating small dwellings with a conical roof. A magical area with over 1,500 trulli. Time to shop at some of the lovely little artisan shops and enjoy lunch at a local restaurant.

We will then make our way to visit Polignano a Mare – a beautiful seaside village.

Return to hotel to relax.

7:30 pm – Dinner – In the charming town of Locorotondo

Day 6

Incredible Matera, Vineyards & Artisanal Baking

Breakfast

8:00 am Departure – Following breakfast, we will be driven to Matera in the region of        Basilicata. A visit to this unique and outstanding UNESO settlement will transport you to    another world. A sight to be seen to be believed, as this town is thought to be one of the world’s oldest. Dating back as far as the Palaeolithic times, its history goes back more than 30,000 years. A private tour has been arranged for us.

Puglia is definitely a little slice of paradise for cheese lovers. A light lunch and tastings of a   variety of cheeses will be enjoyed at small, artisanal family-run shop in Altamura – one of the best producers in the region. Return to hotel to freshen up and dinner this evening will be in the charming town of Conversano at Michelin Star Pashà restaurant.

Day 7

Leisure Day & Farewell Dinner

This is a free day to do as you please. Please let us know if you would like to discuss options for this day and it will be a pleasure to make the arrangements.

7:30 pm – Farewell Dinner at Due Camini, a Michelin Star restaurant in the stunning Borgo Egnazia Hotel. A perfect end to a wonderful week!

Day 8

Departure times to be confirmed in Puglia

Accommodation

Don Ferrante Boutique Hotel

This beautiful property is situated in the seaside town of  Monopoli. A historical fortress, beautifully restored, with magnificent views of both the Adriatic sea on one side, and whitewashed houses on the other.

Leaders

Carol

Carol has perfected the formula for a successful trip: small groups; an attentive host; and culinary adventures off the beaten path. Her contacts around the globe include local cooks, internationally-renowned chefs, experienced drivers and personable vineyard owners. All come together to ensure Carol’s clients have a first-class travel experience.

Details

Included

  • Round trip pick up and transfer – Bari Airport (BRI – airport code) or train station
  • 7 nights accommodation at a 5-star luxury boutique hotel
  • All breakfasts, lunches and dinners
  • Local wines included with all lunches and dinners
  • All Cooking demonstrations and/or hands-on classes
  • All excursions and tours as per itinerary
  • Ground transportation – Private for our group

Excluded

Airfare, train travel, insurance, incidentals, personal expenses and other expenses not indicated as included.

Want to Join Us?