This lovingly restored farmhouse, only five minutes from the Ionian Sea, combines understated luxury with a strong sense of responsibility for the land it occupies, creating an indulgent and authentic stay in Puglia.
Once a working masseria in the heart of rural life, the young owners have brought this property back to life with great care and attention to detail. Masseria Specula captures the essence of Puglia’s heritage from the vaulted ceilings and whitewashed stone walls to the antique touches that honour its roots. Behind the scenes, solar panels and a clever water recycling system ensure the Masseria operates harmoniously with the environment.
Why Stay Here?
Masseria Specula feels like a world of its own, perfect for anyone looking to slow down and reconnect. The four beautifully designed double rooms feel rustic, sophisticated and deeply comforting. Expect natural stone floors, soft textiles, and thoughtful touches like organic cotton bedding and eco-friendly bath and body products. They minimise the use of plastic, serve vegan & vegetarian food, keep bees to enhance pollination and plant trees every winter; they have calculated that two people for a stay of 7 days emit 900 kg of CO2 during their holiday at Masseria Specula, and therefore, for each 2-person stay of 7 days, they plant two trees.
Outside, the gardens are dotted with ancient olive trees, creating pockets of shade for lazy afternoons – the perfect backdrop for rest, reflection and relaxation.
Sustainability lies at the heart of Masseria Specula. Every detail has been carefully considered, from the locally sourced produce used in the kitchen to the energy-efficient practices woven into its daily operations. Meals here are a highlight, featuring fresh ingredients from the masseria’s organic garden and traditional recipes with a fresh twist. Beyond its green credentials, the masseria shines in how it connects you with the local community. Artisans and craftspeople from the area host workshops where you can learn to make pottery, press olive oil, or roll the perfect orecchiette pasta. These authentic experiences leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for the region of Puglia, known as Italy’s ‘vegetable garden’.
Ceglie Messapica, just minutes away, is a gem of a town celebrated for its incredible food and historic charm. Stroll through its cobbled streets, explore its medieval castle, and enjoy a meal at one of its family-run trattorias; Cibus is renowned for its traditional Puglian cuisine in a lovely setting.
Further afield, the iconic — Trulli of Alberobello UNESCO Site – the white conical houses that symbolise Puglia are a must-visit. The Adriatic coastline, with its unspoiled beaches and inviting waters, is close enough for a day trip. For a more adventurous day, the Torre Guaceto Nature Reserve offers scenic walking trails and opportunities to snorkel in its protected waters.
Masseria Specula serves as a hub for retreats, ranging from yoga and meditation to culinary adventures. Imagine mornings stretching beneath olive trees or afternoons perfecting your Puglian cooking skills alongside passionate chefs. These retreats are crafted to inspire, offering time to pause, recharge, and take home something truly special.
The surrounding area is alive with artisanal traditions. Ceramicists, stone carvers, and textile weavers work in studios that have been part of local life for generations. Many welcome visitors, allowing you to learn their techniques and perhaps bring back a handmade piece of Puglia.
Ceramics in Grottaglie: Grottaglie, a town renowned for its ceramics, boasts numerous workshops where visitors can observe artisans and purchase unique pieces.
Le Costantine Foundation: Located in the heart of Salento, this foundation preserves the art of embroidery and weaving. Artisans produce high-quality textile products using ancient wooden looms and natural fibres.
Lanaz Textiles: Based in Ceglie Messapica, Lanaz Textiles offers a range of cotton kitchen towels and other textile products, blending traditional craftsmanship with contemporary designs.
From sun-drenched breakfasts beneath ancient olive trees to that unmistakable connection you feel to Puglian land and tradition, Masseria Specula is more than just a place to stay. It’s somewhere you carry with you long after you’ve left. And if you’d rather keep it all to yourself, this beautiful estate is available for exclusive hire – just you, your favourite people, and the slow rhythm of southern Italy.
A Curated Lifestyle Magazine Focused on Art, Creativity, Fashion, Books, Interiors, Mindfulness, Travel & Beauty.
PLEB Group acknowledges Traditional Owners of Country throughout Australia and recognises the continuing connection to lands, waters and communities. We pay our respect to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures; and to Elders past and present.
