Once peasant houses, now structures of great charm and charm, the masserie of Salento are now the most sought-after places for exclusive, open-air vacations: rural chic tourism is in fashion today, and Salento is the ideal place in Apulia for this type of vacation.
We have already told you about the masserie of Salento, shining examples of rural Salento architecture.
The rebirth of the masserie of Salento
The masserie still evoke the ancient rural spirit of Apulia and Salento, when these majestic buildings, used as farms, housed the lodging of the latifundium owner, the farmers’ houses, stables, barns and all the ancillary structures essential to run the business.
The historical changes over the years have, however, led to a slow and gradual abandonment of the estates that, only recently, have been handed back to the world in a completely renovated form.
Many of them have become cozy agritourisms or bed and breakfasts, where you can treat yourself to a dream vacation, immersed in nature, among vineyards and centuries-old olive trees.
The architecture of the masserie
Some basic elements recur in all the masserie: for example, Lecce stone, tuff and wood are used in the finishes, while vaulted roofs give the interiors a touch of elegance. The vast open-air courtyards, where laborers went about their tasks, have instead been transformed into ideal places in which to relax, sunbathe by the pool, take a swim or prepare a tasty barbecue with your fellow travelers.
Masserias in Nardò
If you have decided to treat yourself to an alternative stay, then the masserias in the Salento resort are just right for you.
The territory of Nardò is, in fact, dotted with accommodations of this kind; all that remains for you to do, then, is to choose the one that inspires you the most and meets your needs.
Masseria Pagani
Masseria Pagani, founded in the 15th century and located in Via Giuseppe Risi, is a typical example of a fortified complex and is perfect if you want to combine relaxation with historical-cultural deepening, since it is located in the areas bordering the historic center.If, on the other hand, you love nature, you can’t miss a visit to the Regional Park of Porto Selvaggio and the cave of the Horse.
The rooms have undergone various modernizations, but the gray tuff elements and dry-stone walls are still the same as they used to be.
The twelve suites and rooms, obtained from the lodgings in which the farmers used to rest, have been renamed with the names of different plants and have, inside, all kinds of comforts.
Wrought iron, wood and terracotta alternate in the furnishings, while the amenities include an accessorized kitchenette, air conditioning, LED television, mini-bar, safe, free wi-fi and private bathrooms including shower stalls and hairdryer.
The owners are ready to pamper you with hearty breakfasts based on traditional local pastries, homemade jams and fruit preserves, yogurt and cheeses produced in the area; finally, you can’t miss delicious aperitifs and tasting dinners by the pool.
You can, in addition, take part in cooking classes, pizzica and tambourine lessons, guided excursions, food and wine tours of various kinds (mozzarella production and wine tasting at local wineries) and, if you happen to be in the right period, you can participate in the grape harvest.
The facility, which caters to a wide range of clientele thanks to the many activities it offers (yoga, massages, beauty treatments, children’s entertainment and adjacent sports fields), is therefore ready to give you its warmest welcome.
Finally, it is worth mentioning that the Pagani farmhouse gave asylum during World War II to the many Jews fleeing Nazi persecution.
The Masseria Bernardini
Masseria Bernardini, in Contrada Agnano, is located just 10 minutes from the beach of Porto Selvaggio Natural Park and combines, inside, the magical atmosphere of historic residences with the taste and refinement of made in Italy design.
In the spacious suites, different in shape and structure, modern furnishings blend with period elements and each accommodation includes television, wi-fi connection, private bathroom and much more.
The property also has an independent villa, Casa dell’Arco, consisting of two apartments of different sizes.
The services offered are truly countless and include massages and holistic treatments, organized trips, yoga and water sports classes, swimming pool and babysitting.
Masseria Nucci
The accommodation facility, in Torre Inserraglio marina di Nardò, boasts ancient origins and is located at an old Byzantine-Norman watchtower.
The masseria, which stands out for its strongly rustic connotation, has rooms with two, three and four beds and apartments that include a fully equipped kitchen and private bathroom.
A wonderful garden, a large swimming pool, a vast furnished porch, wi-fi service, air conditioning and television complete the offer.
