Puglian Mornings

Nestled comfortably in the embrace of a terrace chair at Masseria Palombara in Southern Italy, I find solace in the symphony of morning songbirds heralding another day in paradise. It's the early hours, around 7 am, and with my husband still nestled in our room, I relish this tranquil interlude before the day's bustling cadence begins. Delicate butterflies alight on rosemary bushes, bathed in the soft glow of the morning sun, while wildflowers gracefully dance to the whispers of a cherished breeze.

The citrus-scented air carries the promise of a new day, painting green oranges on nearby trees with the warm hues of sunrise. As the sunlight gradually ascends to the heavens, I've fashioned a charming pre-breakfast sanctuary on our terrace – a reading nook adorned with a steaming cup of black tea and an indulgent slice of freshly baked almond ricotta cake. The almonds, plucked and sun-dried from the on-site grove, infuse the cake with a robust earthiness, complementing the tangy sweetness with a rich woody flavor.

Sipping from an exquisitely crafted cup, I lose myself in the pages of my book, allowing the morning to unfold at its own unhurried pace. These early hours are nothing short of magnificent – a blend of tranquility and warmth, embodying the quintessential southern charm. In this haven of morning bliss, each sip of tea, every morsel of cake, becomes a celebration of the simple and profound beauty that defines the dawn in Southern Italy.