masseria samenti, puglia Italy
My sister travelled to Puglia, Italy a few years ago and immediately fell in love with the region, the food and the people. She proposed the idea of her and I travelling to Puglia together on a sister trip. She was eager to show me the stunning Southern region in Italy and she put together an unforgettable itinerary for us.
We kicked off our sister trip to Puglia, Italy and started in Bari. We spent two nights in Bari and then headed to the airport to pick up our rental car. A rental car is absolutely necessary when travelling to Puglia as this will allow you to explore the various towns of the region that make it so charming. Renting a car allows you to get the full experience of the region. The public transit system is not very prominent in the South of Italy which can make things difficult. This is why I would 100% recommend a car.
We travelled from Bari to the Salento area of Puglia which took roughly 1 hour and 30 minutes. Our first stop was Masseria Samenti which is located in the Salento region of Puglia in Torre Suda.
Masseria Samenti is an ancient farmhouse typical of the Salento area. The property offers a perfect blend of rustic charm and modern luxury, showcasing typical Pugliese architecture with stone walls, whitewashed buildings and a central courtyard. The Masseria has been beautifully restored, while maintaining original features and integrating modern amenities for comfort. The pristine property offers guest views of the sea balanced with relaxation in the countryside. Masseria Samenti is an ideal retreat for those seeking a connection to nature, relaxation and incredible food.
When we arrived at Masseria Samenti, we entered through historic wooden doors and as soon as we stepped through, we were transported to the most beautiful property we had ever seen. When you enter the property, you are captivated by the stunning gardens, historic whitewashed Masseria and immaculate pool that mimics a beach. Masseria Samenti offers guests an authentic Pugliese experience, by providing a relaxing getaway and culinary adventure making your stay unforgettable in one of Italy’s most picturesque regions. Before we got settled into our rooms we wandered around the lush grounds and explored the gardens, pool and restaurant.
The Restaurant at Masseria Samenti
The Masseria has an outstanding restaurant on the property where we enjoyed breakfast each morning and dinner in the evening. The restaurant at Masseria Samenti, lead by executive chef and co-owner Matteo Normano is nothing short of perfection. The menu is a balance between local traditions and international inspiration. Each dish is better than the next and the dining experience was something that I will never forget.
Chef Matteo guided us through the menu and provided his suggestions on what dishes we should try. We followed his recommendations and were blown away by the culinary adventure we embarked on. The restaurant boasts an impressive selection of wines, primarily sourced from Puglia. Chef Matteo may also offer personalized wine pairings to complement the flavors of each dish. Chef Matteo is known for his commitment to using fresh, locally sourced ingredients from the surrounding gardens including vegetables and herbs. This was by far one of the best restaurants we ate at while we were in Puglia. There was a juxtaposition of traditional Pugliese cooking fused with contemporary dining. The menu is dedicated to focusing on traditional Pugliese dishes that celebrate the region’s culinary heritage combined with a modern interpretation. Chef Matteo’s use of local and sustainable ingredients makes it a must visit for food lovers seeking an authentic taste of Puglia.
The Rooms
The rooms at Masseria Samenti are bright, airy and offer breathtaking panoramic views of the coast. The rooms are designed with a blend of rustic and contemporary charm. The rooms feature whitewashed stone walls, exposed beams and high ceilings that reflect the traditional Apulian style. Each room has a private outdoor space and patio which is surrounded by greenery and the pristinely kept grounds. We enjoyed having a glass of wine on our terrace each night and watching the sunset. The Masseria is located close to the ocean, and we loved starting each morning with a walk to the sea, followed by a delicious breakfast and cappuccino at the restaurant.
We stayed at Masseria Samenti for two nights and made day trips to the local towns of Gallipoli and Santa Maria di Leuca. I highly recommend visiting the town of Gallipoli if you are staying on the South-Western side of Puglia. Gallipoli is on the Ionian coast and is formed by a series of long sandy beaches and turquoise waters. The town was built by the Greeks, and it offers a delightful blend of cultural heritage and coastal charm. After our day trips, we would come back to the Masseria and relax by the stunning pool. There’s nothing I love more than having an afternoon nap in the sun followed by an Aperol spritz or two.
We stayed at Masseria Samenti in the off season (at the beginning of May) and we found that the surrounding town was quiet, and the beach clubs weren’t open for the season. However, we enjoyed the tranquility during our stay and the weather was perfect. The location of Masseria Samenti is close to many popular beaches in the area making it a great base for beach hoping and exploring.
Masseria Samenti is a rural retreat that combines history, culture and nature, making it an ideal destination for relaxation. If you enjoy being surrounded by nature and fantastic food, you must stay here. The meals we had at Masseria Samenti were unforgettable. Matteo’s passion and love for cooking shines through in each dish. The staff were over the top with their hospitality and welcomed us in like family. Masseria Samenti provided us with an unforgettable experience, and I hope to come back one day soon to visit.
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