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On the
outskirts of Ostuni, one of the most picturesque towns of
Puglia , a southern region
of Italy known for its mild and welcoming climate all year round, lies a
true treasure, Masseria Il Frantoio, a spectacular and impressive
farmhouse and holiday resort.
This beautiful white olive mill from the 16th century, amidst 180 acres
of ancient olive trees, well tended gardens and a small
pine-tree park, offers an
intimate and refined atmosphere. The public lounges exude taste
and style, and are exquisitely furnished with period furniture and
family antiques. No detail has been overlooked in the decor of the high
vaulted flowery named bedrooms, which are appointed with selected pieces,
wrought-iron beds, fine linens and lace, and paintings. Many with
adjoining room for families. The charming stone courtyard with
exotic palm trees, the well kept Italian style garden with a
peacock cage, the sunny citrus fruit garden with lemon, orange, mandarin
and citron trees, are all places lovingly cared for, to stop and
rest or dedicate to complete relaxation. The underground oil mill, which gives its name to the farm,
is one of the most fascinating places of the farm. It still has the original olive press and mill
where natural underground cave olive oil was produced.
Special mention must be made that the Masseria
Il Frantoio still produces some of the best quality
guaranteed extra-virgin olive oils, following the
instructions of very old recipes, and that an important part of the farm is dedicated to
organic cultivation of especial olives.
Armando and Rosalba Balestrazzi, purchased the farm 14 years ago. They
have brought the abandoned house back to life and oversee the land, its
produce and the gardens with a passion. Their friendly and warm
welcoming add to the pleasure of the place, and in the evenings,
they invite guests to succumb to the pleasures of good cooking,
making the stay here memorable. They
have a kitchen team that works hard to
introduce guests to the best products to be found on this
generous land. |
