Here's the last weekly report from our recent Italy sojourn. Admittedly, this weeks title is a slightly obscure reference to one of my favorite movies circa 1990, a great love story and still highly recommended. And for those who don't know what a Trulli is then read on...
The whole point is, I fell in love with Puglia.
Top 5 - Puglia, Italy
1. Trulli (above and below)
The trulli of Puglia are distinctive limestone dwellings with conical roofs, found primarily in the Itria Valley in Puglia, Italy. The unique structures, dating back to the 14th century, are characterized by their dry-stone construction and whitewashed exteriors. Built without mortar, the trulli feature intricate, often religious, symbols on their cone tops. Originally used as temporary field shelters or storage, some trulli are now adapted into charming homes and accommodations, showcasing the region's architectural heritage. The enchanting landscape of Puglia, dotted with these iconic structures, gave us a beautiful glimpse into the area's history and traditional way of life.
2. Monopoli (above and below)
Monopoli is nestled on the Adriatic coast in Puglia and captivated us with its historic charm and maritime allure. The town's coastal beauty is complemented by a medieval old town featuring labyrinthine streets, ancient churches, and a fortified seafront. Monopoli's vibrant harbor bustles with fishing boats, adding an authentic touch to the atmosphere. The city also boasts a couple of sandy beaches, offering a perfect blend of cultural richness and seaside relaxation It's a delightful destination for those seeking a quintessential Puglian experience.
3. Il Melograno (2 above and below)
We spent our entire stay in Puglia at Il Melograno, an exquisite hotel and a haven of luxury and tranquility. Nestled amidst lush, ancient olive groves, the hotel showcases the region's charm with its traditional architecture and modern amenities. It's elegant rooms and suites feature a blend of rustic elements and sophisticated design, while the lush gardens and pool offer a serene retreat. The hotel's renowned restaurant delights guests with authentic Puglian cuisine, creating a memorable experience in this idyllic setting that reflects the essence of Southern Italy. I could have stayed here for 3 weeks instead of 3 days.
4. Food (above and below)
Combine all the best from Tuscany (eg, truffles, pasta etc) and then add in super fresh seafood, plus the best olives and olive oil and that's Puglian cuisine. Photos tell the story.
5. Cheesemaking (above and below)
After a walk around the incredible hilltop town of Locorotondo and an e-bike ride through the narrow backroads of the area, which included the trulli tour above, we then experienced a local organic cheesemaker's guide to how to make the perfect mozzarella and burrata.The whole process is more complicated than I make it sound but it is literally cow to table in just a few hours, and with no preservatives, consumption has to be within the next 48 hours. We even had the experience of attempting to knot a mozzarella cheese and make our own burrata. Wonderful, meaningful, and of course we ate it all immediately afterwards!
If you're ready to take on your own Trulli, Madly, Deeply experience in Puglia on your next trip to Italy, let us know. Click the button below to get started planning a trip of a lifetime with an easy, and stress-free process the entire way with your Luxury Travel Tailors.
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