EUROPE | SOUTHERN ITALY
Recommended country B&Bs in Puglia, Italy
Sample the countryside for an authentic, unforgettable taste of Southern Italy.
Although Puglia now has its share of luxury resorts complete with golf courses and spas, staying at an agriturismo or B&B in the countryside or the historic center of Lecce will give you a more authentic taste of Puglia. Some, like the famous Il Melograno in Monopoli, are full-scale hotels and expensive; others are more modest and truly familial. Choose one or two as a base for exploring the surrounding region.
MASSERIA IL FRANTOIO
The place: S.S. 16, Kilometer 874, Ostuni (Brindisi), 011-39-0831-330276, www.masseriailfrantoio.it , or e-mail armando @trecolline.it .
The flavor: Well-known agriturismo (pictured above) on a working farm with more than 4,000 olive trees. Rooms are old-fashioned and not very big. Prices are per person, not per room, starting at $105 for adults, including a lavish breakfast spread. In high season, make reservations well in advance. Dinner is $70. Check the website for a list of books about the area.
AGRITURISMO MONTEPAOLO
The place: Contrada Montepaolo, Conversano; 011-39-080-495-5087, www.montepaolo.it .
The flavor: Great for families; moderately priced agriturismo in 16th century two-story stone building with pool and large garden. Ten simple rooms (no air conditioning) and rustic regional cooking from owner Niny Bassi. Doubles start at $103, including breakfast. Dinner, $26 per person.
BORGO SAN MARCO
The place: C. da S. Angelo, 33, Fasano; 011-39-080-439-5757; www.borgosanmarco.it .
The flavor: Perfect for bohemians, a rustic, suite-only agriturismo (shown below) once used by the Knights of Malta as a watchtower and military garrison. Rooms, painted in lush colors, are moderately priced compared to the luxe masserie in Fasano; some can be combined for larger family groups. It has a pool, but only a rudimentary restaurant. Comfortable but not luxurious. Adults starting at $125 per person.
HOTELS
AIA DEL VENTO
The place: 79 Via Locorotondo, Cisternino; 011-39-080-444-8388, www.aiadelvento.it .
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