Puglia Masseria Stays
Masseria Tenuta Yala (Parabita)
Experience the Charm of a Masseria Stay in Puglia
Imagine waking up to the soft rustle of olive trees, with the scent of wild rosemary drifting in the air and golden sunlight warming the historic stones of a centuries-old farmhouse. This is the essence of a holiday spent in a Masseria in Puglia, a region in Italy that perfectly blends rustic simplicity with refined elegance. If you are ever planning a holiday in Puglia, staying in a masseria which is a restored farm-like hotel makes the holiday that much more special. We usually like to mix our locations by staying in a hotel or air b&b in the city and then a couple of masseria’s in the countryside.
A Masseria is more than just a place to stay; it's a gateway to understanding Puglia’s deep-rooted connection with the land. These traditional fortified farmhouses, dating back to the 16th and 17th centuries, were originally built as working farms, complete with orchards, vineyards, and sprawling olive groves. Today, many have been lovingly restored to welcome travelers, offering a unique blend of luxury and authenticity.
Living Off the Land Staying in a Masseria immerses you in the practice of living off the land, a tradition that is central to Puglian culture. From farm-to-table dining experiences that feature seasonal produce harvested directly from the estate, to the opportunity to participate in olive-picking or learn about local winemaking, visitors can taste and feel the life of rural Italy. The meals are often prepared using old family recipes, highlighting the simplicity and bold flavors of the region—ripe tomatoes, fresh burrata, handmade orecchiette pasta, and, of course, the robust local olive oil.
Beauty and Comfort of Renovated Farmhouses Many Masserie have undergone stunning transformations. While preserving their thick stone walls, vaulted ceilings, and traditional courtyards, these farmhouses have been updated with modern comforts such as infinity pools, spa facilities, and beautifully designed rooms that blend traditional Puglian decor with chic, minimalist aesthetics. The charm lies in how the past and present coexist: aged stone arches frame contemporary lounges, and antique wooden doors open into serene bedrooms with views of fields stretching to the horizon.
Masseria Tenuta Yala (Parabita)
This time on our holiday we stayed at Masseria Tenuta Yala (Parabita) & Masseria Lama San Giorgio in Rutigliano. In the last years, we have also stayed in a spa masseria called Relais Histo (in Taranto), Masseria Potenti and Masseria Palombara, which have all been lovely. Masseria Potenti and Palombara have been my favourites.
We wanted to try new masserias this time on holiday: The beauty about Masseria Tenuta Yala, was that we had our own little house in the grounds and the main house was used for dining. The house was so cosy and visually beautiful with its own terraces overlooking the vinyard, which was a real highlight. It felt really private and easy with a toddler, and it was special having a glass of wine and eating cheeses overlooking the sunset before dinner time. There were a lot of animals in this property too, from birds (ducks, geese, chickens and a turkey), to goats, horses, cats and dogs. We made it a thing to go visit the animals and feed them which was a highlight for our son. We will for sure be returning here again.
From this masseria we visited a coastal town called Santa Maria al Bagno for lunch along with another town called Nardó.
sunset overlooking the vinyard from our house rooftop terrace
Masseria Lama San Giorgio in Rutigliano
Masseria Lama San Giorgio in Rutigliano
This masseria had more families as guests then the preivous hotel. This may be due to the fact that, the grounds had a massive playground (thankfully placed on the side so it did not affect the visuals) which was a big hit for children. This masseria had a lovely pool and a nice room, but I did prefer the mini house more in the previous masseria as it just felt more private. The main masseria was a beautiful old manner surrounded by vineyard. If you stay here, make sure to book a private candle light dinner has the room is lovely where they serve the dinner. From this masseria we visited the town of Monopoli for a lunch as a daytime trip.
Here is a list of other notable Masseria hotels in Puglia, known for offering luxurious stays in historic and rustic countryside settings:
Masseria Torre Maizza, a Rocco Forte Hotel (Savelletri di Fasano) – A luxurious resort offering refined accommodations, beautiful olive groves, and elegant amenities.
Masseria San Domenico (Savelletri) – A high-end masseria known for its traditional architecture, spa, golf course, and proximity to the Adriatic Sea.
Masseria Torre Coccaro (Savelletri di Fasano) – A charming and luxurious property offering a mix of modern comforts and historic charm, with a private beach club and farm-to-table dining.
Borgo Egnazia (Savelletri di Fasano) – While not a masseria in the strictest sense, it is inspired by the traditional Apulian village design and is famous for its luxury, spa, and world-class service.
Masseria Montenapoleone (Pezzapane) – A unique and rustic hotel set amidst olive trees, known for its authentic atmosphere and eco-friendly focus.
Masseria Salinola (Ostuni) – A charming masseria that combines traditional elements with modern amenities, ideal for those seeking a more intimate stay.
Masseria Trapana (Lecce) – An elegant and exclusive property with a rich history, surrounded by lush gardens and offering luxury accommodations.
Masseria Potenti (Manduria) – A beautifully restored farmhouse known for its family-run warmth, organic gardens, and picturesque surroundings.
Masseria Le Carrube (Ostuni) – A peaceful retreat surrounded by olive trees and offering traditional cuisine and serene views.
Masseria Cervarolo (Ostuni) – A boutique-style hotel that combines rustic charm with modern luxury, featuring trulli and unique interior design.
Masseria Moroseta (Ostuni) – A modern, minimalist masseria set in olive groves, known for its stylish design, wellness offerings, and panoramic views of the sea.
Masseria Palombara (Oria) – A charming adults-only masseria offering an authentic, serene experience with organic gardens, a focus on sustainability, and a tranquil atmosphere.
A Common Sight in Puglia The rolling landscapes of Puglia are peppered with these iconic structures, each with its own unique story and character. They are as much a part of the region’s identity as the trulli houses of Alberobello or the dazzling Baroque architecture of Lecce. Whether you choose a coastal Masseria with sea breezes or one nestled in the countryside surrounded by olive trees, you’ll find that staying in a Masseria embodies the heart and soul of Puglia—its hospitality, its flavors, and its timeless beauty.
If you're dreaming of a vacation that combines history, comfort, and a true taste of Italian life, a stay in a Masseria in Puglia is an experience that will leave you with cherished memories and a deeper appreciation for the art of slow living.