Travel
A Sublime Retreat
Masseria Moroseta stands as a serene oasis amid Puglia’s olive-laden landscapes. It beckons travelers to escape the bustle of modern life and immerse themselves in the region’s timeless heritage, surrounded by captivating olive groves and warm hospitality. Whether you seek tranquility, cultural exploration, or a profound connection with nature, Masseria Moroseta offers an unforgettable journey through the soul of Puglia. It’s a place where history gently rustles through the leaves, where the present embraces with understated elegance, and where the future is welcomed with open arms. It’s an essential destination for those in pursuit of an authentic southern Italian experience, intimately intertwined with the magic of olive groves.
Nestled amid the stark white farmhouses and cascading olive groves leading to the Adriatic is Masseria Moroseta. This boutique establishment, comprising six rooms and a kitchen, is the brainchild of owner Carlo Lanzini. Renowned for its understated elegance, the property’s design, crafted by architect Andrew Trotter, has earned it a well-deserved reputation.
As you arrive at the masseria, the unassuming whitewashed facade, a symbol of the region’s architectural character, greets you. The building’s simplicity harmoniously blends with contemporary accents—clean lines and modest decor. This marriage of past and present creates an atmosphere that transcends time, where history and modernity coexist in serene harmony.
The property has more than 650 centuries-old olive trees from which we produce our own “Vecchia scuola” extra-virgin olive oil. Cold-pressed olive oil is the undisputed protagonist in the kitchen. The oil is also used in the range of ecological beauty products by the Masseria, where it is combined with the essences of the aromatic herbs from our countryside.
An atmosphere of warmth and intimacy prevails; a rustic table adorned with dishes fashioned from the garden’s bounty, under the culinary mastery of Chef Giorgia Eugenia Goggi, beckons guests from around the world. Here, in this inviting ambiance, conversations flow during intimate dinners that seem to stretch into the night. Adding a touch of charm to these gatherings is the gracious host, Alessio Manca.
Though not bound by blood, the modern “family” at Masseria Moroseta, composed of these four friends, extends a warm welcome to all who seek solace in their tranquil haven.
The place stands as a tribute to Puglia’s architectural legacy. This centuries-old masseria, an iconic Apulian farmhouse, has been painstakingly restored by dedicated owners Carlo and Bianca. Their vision was not merely to preserve the structure’s essence but to infuse it with modern design elements. The result is a seamless fusion of tradition and innovation.
Masseria Moroseta offers diverse accommodations, each thoughtfully designed to offer a unique experience. The rooms and suites exude rustic elegance with their natural stone floors, locally crafted furnishings, and whitewashed walls. Expansive windows frame captivating views of the surrounding olive groves, the distant Adriatic Sea, and an infinity pool that merges seamlessly with the horizon.
What truly sets Masseria Moroseta apart is its deep connection to the olive groves enveloping the property. These ancient groves, nurtured using sustainable farming practices, yield some of the finest olive oil in the region. Guests are invited to partake in olive oil tastings, immersing themselves in the rich flavors and fragrances of Puglia’s cherished “green gold.”
More than just a place for physical relaxation, Masseria Moroseta provides a sanctuary for the soul. The serene atmosphere, accompanied by the gentle rustling of olive leaves and captivating sunsets, creates an idyllic setting for yoga and meditation. Those in search of rejuvenation can indulge in holistic spa treatments inspired by ancient Apulian rituals, utilizing locally sourced ingredients like olive oil and sea salt.
For the adventurous, the masseria offers guided bicycle tours through the lush countryside and coastal horseback rides winding through the olive groves, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the tranquil landscape.
Masseria Moroseta’s strategic location makes it an ideal base for exploring Puglia’s treasures. The nearby town of Ostuni, known as the “White City” for its whitewashed buildings, is just a short drive away. Visitors can meander through its enchanting streets, savor fresh seafood at local trattorias, and absorb the local culture.
Puglia’s stunning coastline, with its crystalline waters and secluded coves, beckons exploration. Day trips to the nearby beaches of Torre Guaceto and Torre Pozzelle offer opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing. Additionally, the region’s UNESCO World Heritage sites, such as the iconic trulli of Alberobello and the historic town of Matera, are easily accessible from Masseria Moroseta, providing insights into Italy’s rich cultural heritage.
At the heart of Masseria Moroseta’s ethos lies a deep commitment to sustainability. Owners Carlo and Bianca have taken great care to minimize the masseria’s environmental impact. From using locally sourced and organic materials in construction to preserving the integrity of the surrounding olive groves, every aspect of the property reflects a dedication to eco-conscious living.
These ancient olive groves, meticulously nurtured using traditional and sustainable farming methods, offer guests a unique opportunity to connect with the land and understand the importance of responsible agriculture. Their tireless efforts to reduce waste and promote renewable energy set a commendable example for eco-conscious travelers.
The design of Masseria Moroseta has been made with extreme care to look after the environment. The one-meter-thick walls with eco-friendly recycled insulation, mean that very little air-conditioning is needed event in the hottest times of the year, and very little heating in the winter. The living space with it’s cross ventilation windows, needs no air- conditioning at all. Solar panels provide enough electricity and heat for the whole building, and we have our own water supply for our organic farm. All materials used in the construction are locally found, as are all the tradesmen. All food and drink are either grown by us or bought from local farmers, producers and artisans.
Words: Editorial Board.
Photography: Courtesy of Masseria Moroseta.