Andando slow travel

In sun kissed Ostuni,
in a wonderfully
quiet spot in
between the olive trees,
lies the Masseria
"Il Frantoio",
with tis magnificent whitewashed
walls.

Surrounded by cypresses and pine trees, we find the beautiful Masseria, where Armando Balestrazzi and his wife Rosalba will welcome you with open arms. Ask them about their adventure of fleeing the city, purchasing the Masseria "Il Frantoio", the oldest buildings of which were erected in 1500, and the enormous job of restoring the house.

In addition to the century-old Frantoio, olive-press, the Masseria boasts several romantic rooms. These rooms, such as la Camera degli Sposi which is the bridal chamber, all have a different atmosphere. Each has a specific style and is decorated with much eye for detail. The common feature is the original floor, which can be found in every room.
The romantic bridal chamber is decorated with an antique, cast-iron bed with handmade bed linens and an antique bath and faucets. The ensemble creates an atmosphere of times long gone.

Rosalba is an excellent chef, well-known in the region's culinary circles. Her kitchen is known for its traditional local dishes, for which she uses ingredients and wild herbs that grow on the estate. Due to this special care, Il Frantoio has made quite a name for itself in the business of 'slow food'.
Rosa welcomes each guest to the table and will give extra attention to preparing a special meal for newlyweds and people who wish to relive their honeymoon. Ten-course diners are no exception here and are made with ingredients that can only be found in this region of Italy.

The area surrounding Il Frantoio has so much to offer, that it is difficult to make a choice.
A trip to the Lido Bizzarro in Torre Canne can be made on foot or on horseback, excusions are organised to the amazing, protected Oase Torre Gauceto or you can take an old-timer for a spin.
What to think of the 72 hectares of the estate waiting to be explored by foot or on horseback, or of all the small chapels waiting to be discovered by bicycle?