Masseria Palombara Resort & Spa

We picked Masseria Palombara for a few days in March 26, and with the rainy weather, it turned out to be exactly the right place to settle in. Puglia felt like heaven here. The staff were so warm and thoughtful, and the property is gorgeous. The rooms and shared spaces are beautifully designed, with lots of second hand furniture that still feels modern. The lighting is managed so well, and fireplaces crackle from morning to late at night, even in the spa. I actually loved that there wasn’t a TV in our room. It made things feel restful. The gardens are lovely too, and must be quite something in summer. The spa is well equipped and fits beautifully into the place. You can spend ages here just relaxing. Breakfast was a favorite, especially since it wasn’t another buffet, and dinner was delicious enough that we didn’t feel like eating elsewhere. We’ve only been gone a few hours and already miss it. Hope you have a lovely stay too.

Masseria Palombara Relais & Spa became the highlight of our 20th anniversary trip through parts of Italy we hadn’t explored before. We arrived in November, well outside the usual tourist season, when many places were closed. After Sicily, a ferry, and a drive of more than six hours, we came across this incredible surprise. At 8 PM we called to ask if they had a room. Francesca, the General Manager, answered right away and was gracious and accommodating. She welcomed us as if she’d been expecting us. Soon after we arrived, we got a tour of the property at night, then sat down to an unforgettable farm-to-table dinner that was thoughtful, authentic, and delicious. Our room was spacious and beautifully designed, with a lovely working fireplace. Owner Angelo Lippolis and his wife have turned the property into a romantic, peaceful adults-only retreat full of character. Blue, the resident dog, and Francesca both helped us feel right at home. We’d planned to stay one night, but ended up spending three. It’s a hidden gem, though it deserves to be found by travelers who appreciate charm, authenticity, and heartfelt hospitality. Masseria Palombara Relais & Spa has so much to offer, and we can’t wait to return.

The food was a highlight all the way through. Breakfast each morning had plenty to choose from, excellent coffee, fresh juices, homemade cakes, cookies, jams that changed daily, and a hot savory option. Dinner on the terrace was magical, with a smaller menu but exceptional quality, plus their own bread and olive oil. Weekly pizza night was honestly the best pizza we had on the whole trip. The property is huge, rustic, and beautiful. There are two pools, though we wish it had been warm enough to use them, plus a spa, bikes, and an outdoor cinema. Evenings at the bar felt relaxed but elegant, with music, great drinks, homemade taralli, and other snacks. We also appreciated the sustainability efforts, from restored salvaged furniture to homegrown vegetables, and the care that goes into everything. Our room was spotless and well stocked. There was a small issue with the first room, and they kindly moved us to a suite in another building for the four nights. Angelo, the owner, and his adorable dog added a personal touch. The staff made the stay special too: Fabio, Pasquale, Ishmael at dinner, the ladies at breakfast, and Sara and Francesca at check-in were all wonderful. Warm, genuine hospitality. We’d come back.

The grounds at Masseria Palombara are stunning, with a magical calm that put us at ease right away. We felt at home and very cared for, even though check-in was a little difficult at first. They sorted it out quickly. We loved the cooking class. We learned to make orecchiette, a local eggplant dish, and tiramisu, and made some new friends along the way. Chef Fouzia and her assistant Mesi were warm, patient, and engaging. Francesca, the manager, was incredibly kind and attentive, and the whole staff went above and beyond. Ishmael was always smiling and had great local suggestions, while Pasquale made the best Old Fashioned I’ve ever had. The hammam felt otherworldly, and the massages left us renewed and deeply relaxed. We’re so grateful for the hospitality. A 10/10 stay, and easy to recommend.