Turquoise sea, possibly the most breathtaking in the region; golden, untamed countryside; warmly inviting villages like Otranto; and Lecce, one of the most unexpectedly beautiful towns in the whole of Italy. This is Salento, the southernmost part of Puglia. Salento is salty hair and a warm breeze. A salad made from fresh tomatoes and a freshly caught gilt-head bream. It’s a horse ride along a beach, a romantic walk among Lecce’s Baroque wonders, a sip of cold coffee with almond milk – a local specialty. It’s the crystal waters of Santa Maria di Leuca and the genuine, smiling faces of the terracotta artisans as they craft their intricate artworks.
SUGGESTED LENGTH: you could stay here for a weekend, but I’d recommend 5-7 days if you’re looking to fully regenerate, while leaving enough time to explore Salento. You could also combine this travel experience with another destination or two – like Valle d’Itria or Matera. If you’re interested in picking Andrea’s brain to plan the ultimate escape for reconnection, get in touch here.
SUGGESTED SEASON: Late summer/late spring (September/May-June).
HORSE RIDING, TASTING FREEDOM
Someone once told me that riding a horse is a taste of freedom. At Masseria Prosperi, you can experience this freedom and a deeper connection to nature, courtesy of Mercedes (your host) and her majestic horses (your neighbours). Mercedes’ passion for this animal is contagious and, whether you’re an experienced rider or a complete beginner requiring her guidance, riding to the nearby lakes or beach will soon become your daily remedy.
This is a bespoke experience, and prices depend on your specific requirements. Get in touch with Andrea to learn more.
TERRACOTTA WORKSHOP
It’s well-known that handicrafts are an ideal way to unwind and be present, while igniting your creative instincts. In Puglia, the hand-production of works in clay and terracotta dates back to Messapian times, when the Iapygian tribe would craft their own utensils for everyday life from local materials. At Masseria Prosperi, you can familiarise yourself with this ancient tradition at a terracotta workshop, satisfying your curiosity and your creativity all at once.
This is a bespoke experience, and prices depend on your specific requirements. Get in touch with Andrea to learn more.
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WHERE ~ near Otranto, Southeast Apulia
BEMYJOURNEY’S EXPERIENCE ~ “Masseria Prosperi isn’t just a stay, it’s a lifestyle. A cosy farm, simple and yet sophisticated, where Mercedes, Antonio and their animals provide the warmest, most welcoming of atmospheres. I hope that staying at this intimate Masseria will allow you to recharge and unwind as much as I did.” Andrea
BEMYJOURNEY’S EXTRA ~ BeMyJourney travellers who stay longer than 7 nights will be treated to a discount, a welcome gift or a room upgrade (upon availability), depending on the timing of your request. Get in touch with Andrea to claim this treat.
WHAT TO EXPECT ~ If you are looking for restoration and reconnection in nature, this is the destination for you. At Masseria Prosperi, you’ll be greeted by Mercedes, Antonio and their menagerie of animals – a donkey, goats, turtles, dogs, cows, horses – as well as the most beautiful rural landscape that stretches on forever. Masseria Prosperi is a perfect combination of rurality and elegance, a place where every object has a story and every detail is simple yet refined. The country-chic farmhouse and wellness retreat is tucked away in the Otranto countryside, just a few minutes’ drive from the local village and beach. The intimate and familiar environment never sacrifices comfort: a heated indoor pool, jacuzzi, hydro-bikes, and steam and massage rooms await you. As does the Masseria’s lush garden, where you can enjoy yoga classes (upon advance request) and its outdoor swimming pool. With 8 guest rooms, Masseria Prosperi can accommodate up to 23 people, and if you’re interested in hosting a retreat or private event there, that’s possible, too – just let Andrea know. Prices start from 160 euro per night.
FOOD PHILOSOPHY ~ Breakfast is traditional and delicious. You can also reserve a light lunch under the garden pergola and, on set evenings, Antonio delights with his healthy-yet-tasty farm-to-table dishes. Fresh vegetables, picked in his organic orchard, accompany the freshest local fish and delicious local produce bought from nearby farmers. Antonio also hosts a cooking workshop to share secrets about the local cuisine (but don’t go telling everyone!)
COMMITMENT TO SUSTAINABILITY ~ Mercedes and her family live in harmony with nature, having fostered a deep connection with their environment – a lifestyle they’re keen to share with their guests. Sustainability underpins all aspects of life at Masseria Prosperi: during winter, the farmhouse is heated by a boiler that runs on recycled driftwood collected on the beach; while in summer, solar panelling provides hot water. Natural treatments are used to purify the water and the Masseria provides all guests with a water dispenser to refill their canteens.
OTHER INFORMATION
Free parking is available onsite
Closest airports: Brindisi approx 1.10h/Bari approx 2.20 h
Small pets are allowed in the property
Light lunch available every day upon reservation and dinner 2 or 3 days a week upon reservation.
Masseria Prosperi is open all year round
Check-in 3-11 PM – Check-out 10.30 AM
CANCELLATION POLICY ~ It depends on the rate you will choose. Get in touch with Andrea to learn more.
DROP A LINE TO ANDREA, SCHEDULE A CALL AND PICK HER BRAIN TO DISCOVER OFF-THE-BEATEN-PATH DESTINATIONS IN ITALY YOU WOULD NOT FIND OTHERWISE
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