Olives and Orecchiette

Bite-sized trip

Itinerary:
Ostuni
Duration:
4 days / 3 nights (flexible)
Price:
from £ 380.- per person (excluding flights)

Puglia is the beating heart of southern Italy and beckons with its enchanting charm and captivating landscapes. Here, time seems to slow down, allowing you to savour every moment of the stunning scenery that surrounds you. As you venture through the region, you'll be greeted by vast olive groves that stretch as far as the eye can see, punctuated by the iconic cone-shaped white trulli houses. To truly immerse yourself in the authentic spirit of Puglia, you'll stay in a traditional conical house, where history and tradition come together in perfect harmony, and connect with the local culture as you learn to make pasta from scratch alongside a friendly local chef.

Day 1 – Arrival in Ostuni, Puglia

Today you’ll arrive in Puglia, ready for a truly special stay. You’ll sleep in a typical cone-shaped trullo near Ostuni, where the charm of the past meets the comfort of the present. These whitewashed houses, with their cone-shaped roofs, carry the echoes of ancient times, adorned with primitive or magical symbols that add a touch of mystique. Step inside, and you’ll be pleasantly surprised by the spaciousness and comfort that awaits you within. Perched on a hill, the trulli offer breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape, adorned with olive trees that stretch as far as the eye can see. The central location in the valley also makes it an ideal base for you to easily explore the wonders of the area. From the picturesque streets of Ostuni to the scenic landscapes of Puglia, each day offers new adventures to be discovered.

Day 2 – Pasta cooking workshop and exploring the area

After a satisfying breakfast this morning, you can either set out to explore the charming white town of Ostuni or if you’re in the mood for an active adventure, hop on a bike and pedal your way through the mesmerizing olive groves. In the afternoon, it’s time to delve into the heart of Puglian cuisine with a special workshop, where you learn the art of making orecchiette, a small pasta shaped like ears, which is a symbol of the region. Under the guidance of expert chefs, you’ll discover the secrets of kneading dough and shaping this delightful pasta. As the workshop comes to a close, gather around the table and savour the fruits of your labour – a delicious feast of homemade orecchiette, accompanied by the finest local wine.

Day 3 – Around Ostuni, Puglia

Today promises to be a day of exploration and discovery as you venture into the surrounding area of Puglia. The north of the region offers a different landscape compared to the south, with its lush greenery and rolling hills. Among the scenic vistas, you’ll find vast olive groves, contributing to Puglia’s distinction as the source of 80% of Italian olive oil. A highlight of the day is a visit to Alberobello, the capital of the trulli villages. These iconic trulli houses, with their unique cone-shaped structures, create a picturesque scene that embodies the essence of Puglia’s heritage. In the centre, you’ll find the trulli that are designed for tourists, housing charming restaurants and souvenir shops. As you meander through the streets, you’ll be enchanted by the authenticity and charm of these traditional dwellings. Venture to the outskirts, and you’ll have the opportunity to stroll through streets where locals still live in these iconic buildings, providing a glimpse into the daily life of the region.

Day 4 – Departure from Ostuni, Puglia

Now it’s time for you to leave Ostuni and travel deeper into the heel of the Italian boot. To hit the market and do some cooking with an Italian mamma, drive to the white baroque city of Lecce in Puglia. If you prefer an Italian siesta then travel to the coast and discover Polignano a Mare, a lively and atmospheric fishing village with beautiful bays and an clear blue water.