Masserie (farmhouses) of Porto Cesareo

Porto Cesareo, with its crystal clear waters and enchanting beaches, is one of the most popular destinations in Puglia. But the beauty of this corner of paradise is not limited to the sea: in its surroundings, among the countryside surrounding the town, authentic masserie are hidden, places that tell the story and agricultural traditions of this land. The masserie are ancient fortified farms that once served as a refuge for farmers, and today represent an unmissable stop for those who want to discover the most authentic Puglia. Here is an overview of the most fascinating masserie around Porto Cesareo.

1. Agriturismo Torrevecchia

Agriturismo Torrevecchia is a multifunctional farm located in San Pancrazio Salentino, close to a crypt from the 7th century AD full of Byzantine frescoes. Extending over 200 hectares of wine, olive and cereal production, the estate represents the ideal place for lovers of nature and genuine flavors. You can visit the stables of ponies, horses, the chicken coop or watch the milking of cows, sheep and goats. Starting from the farmhouse, the heart of the entire company, we find the dairy and, adjacent to it, the point of sale of the many company products: cheeses and dairy products, meats, extra virgin olive oil, wines, vegetables, fruit and legumes. Walking through the park, you reach the farmhouse. Built following a careful restoration of an ancient farmhouse from the 1300s, the original stables, once used to shelter animals, have become large rooms, which are accessed via an independent entrance, equipped with all comforts. In the large park and in the sports facilities present, time passes pleasantly: playing tennis, relaxing in the pool, discovering the beautiful Mediterranean scrub by trekking, taking long walks by bike or on horseback.

2. Masseria Tenuta Quintino

Located a few kilometers from Porto Cesareo, Masseria Tenuta Quintino is a farm that offers an immersive experience in the Salento countryside. The property is perfect for those looking for a relaxing and peaceful stay, with modern rooms with a rustic charm. Guests can enjoy a large swimming pool, a restaurant offering typical local dishes and a wellness area. The farm is also an excellent starting point for exploring the natural and historical beauty of the surroundings, such as the beaches of Porto Cesareo.

3. Masseria Torre Nova

Masseria Torre Nova is a historic estate located along the Salento coast, immersed in a breathtaking landscape of olive groves and vineyards. The tower, which gives its name to the farm, dates back to the 16th century and was used for defense against pirate raids. The property, which preserves its original architecture, offers elegant and spacious rooms. Among the main services there are an outdoor swimming pool, a restaurant with typical cuisine and the possibility of participating in wine tastings. The strategic location allows you to easily reach the sea, but also to explore the Porto Selvaggio Natural Park, which is just a few minutes’ drive away.

4. Masseria Zanzara

Masseria Zanzara is a traditional farm located in the heart of Salento, a few kilometers from Porto Cesareo. In addition to offering rustic and comfortable rooms, the masseria is famous for its production of extra virgin olive oil and other typical products. Guests can participate in guided tours of the farm and the processing of agricultural products. Among the services, an outdoor swimming pool, a restaurant serving genuine dishes and the possibility of taking walks among the surrounding olive groves and vineyards stand out.

5. Masseria Rescio

Immersed in the Salento countryside, Masseria Rescio is a structure that combines tradition and modern comforts. The masseria offers elegant rooms and a wide range of services, including a swimming pool, a restaurant serving typical Salento dishes and a spa for moments of pure relaxation. Guests can participate in various activities, such as cooking classes, hiking or cycling tours and guided tours of local attractions. The property is ideal for families and couples seeking tranquility and nature.

6. Masseria Corsano

Masseria Corsano is a beautiful estate located in the heart of Salento, a few minutes from Porto Cesareo. Characterized by typical architecture and a rustic atmosphere, the masseria offers comfortable accommodation and an outdoor swimming pool surrounded by greenery. The property’s restaurant offers typical specialties, prepared with fresh ingredients directly from the estate. In addition, guests can enjoy various activities, such as walks in the gardens, bike rides and visits to the nearby beaches of Torre Lapillo.

7. Tenuta Curti Russi

Tenuta Curti Russi is located in the Salento countryside, a few kilometers from Porto Cesareo, and is the ideal place for a relaxing and nature-filled holiday. Guests can stay in rustic yet elegant rooms, and enjoy amenities such as a swimming pool, a restaurant serving typical dishes and a wellness center. The estate also offers the opportunity to participate in wine and oil tastings, as well as excursions in the surrounding area to discover the natural and historical beauty of Salento. The rooms offer the possibility of hosting ceremonies from the simplest to the most complex such as weddings.

8. Masseria Casina Bellanova

Masseria Casina Bellanova, located near the park of the La Strea peninsula, dating back to the early 19th century is considered one of the major testimonies of the Middle Ages in Salento. The property is located 700 meters from the sea, 3 km from the center of Porto Cesareo and 30 km from Gallipoli and Lecce. The architecture of the masseria, typical of rural homes in Salento, is characterized by the presence of ancient star vaults in tuff and carparo, solid wood floors, thick perimeter walls, imposing dry stone walls and olive trees, orchards and typical Mediterranean vegetation that frame it. The rooms are mini duplex apartments, equipped with every useful comfort, obtained from the old stables, the master’s houses and the large farmhouses of the factors through a wise and careful renovation.

9. Agriturismo Masseria Scianne

Immersed in the greenery of the Salento countryside, Agriturismo Masseria Scianne is located a few kilometers from Porto Cesareo, and is the ideal place for those seeking a holiday dedicated to relaxation and tranquility. The masseria dates back to the 17th century. and has left intact its typical appearance with tuff ashlars and star vaults. The name probably derives from the dialect word “sciannì” which means container (in sheet metal), used a few centuries ago in oil mills, for the transport and decanting of oil. Once the farmhouse was used for livestock breeding (cattle-sheep), today it has been transformed into a pleasant agritourism company, where you can enjoy the scents and tranquility of the countryside and taste the pleasures and rhythms of ancient life, through the rediscovery of the culinary traditions of Salento. The structure offers comfortable rooms, a swimming pool, a restaurant, and many additional services such as guided excursions and activities for families, such as cooking workshops and outdoor games.