Apulia is a region with centuries of history, incredible natural beauties, and fascinating villages. Food is a big part of its cultural identity. The local cuisine is deeply rooted in tradition and is often referred to as “cucina povera” (literally, poor kitchen) to indicate the ability of Apulians to create simple, delicious dishes making the most of the products of their land. This itinerary will focus on the Salento peninsula, the southernmost part of Apulia, uncovering beautiful landscapes, towns full of arts and some of the region’s most famous delicacies.
3 Nights & 4 Days
Apulian Delights
A delicious taste of Apulian cuisine amid Salento’s beautiful seascapes and charming towns
Chef
Antonio Russo
Chef
Apulian Chef Antonio Russo developed a passion for cooking as a child thanks to his family. He’s a man of few words and prefers to let his dishes speak for themselves. They are based on a traditional Mediterranean cuisine revisited to enhance the exceptional quality of local raw materials and offer a surprising culinary experience where land and sea come together in unpredictable ways.
Restaurant
Journey
Day 1 – Arrival
Welcome to Apulia! Palazzo Ducale Venturi will be your base for this itinerary. Upon arrival, enjoy a welcome aperitif in this beautiful location in the heart of Salento, followed by a delightful dinner paired with local wines.
Overnight at Hotel Palazzo Venturi
Day 2 – Lecce
Your exploration of Salento will start with a visit to Lecce, one of the most beautiful towns in Apulia, where you’ll enjoy a wonderful walking tour around its precious Baroque treasures. In the afternoon you’ll reach Gallipoli, on the Ionian coast, to explore its picturesque old town and learn more about Apulia’s gold – the olive oil. You’ll visit an ancient underground oil mill and then transfer to a modern farm to learn about the olive oil making process and taste the final product.
Overnight at Hotel Palazzo Venturi
Day 3 – Otranto
This morning you’ll drive to the Adriatic coast of Salento. Your first stop will be the dairy farm Torre Sant’Emiliano, where you’ll be welcomed by a Mastro Casaro who will illustrate the production process and guide you through a delightful cheese tasting. Then you’ll reach the gorgeous coastal town of Otranto for a traditional lunch and a visit to its fascinating attractions. In the afternoon you’ll have some time to relax before trying your hand at Apulian cuisine with a cooking class led by Chef Antonio Russo. A fabulous firewall dinner will then await you at the hotel’s restaurant.
Overnight at Hotel Palazzo Venturi
Day 4 – Departure
It is time to say goodbye and see you soon for your next trip!!!!!
Partner Hotels
Set in the magic borgo of Minervino, nestled between majestic olive trees and lush vineyards, Palazzo Ducale Venture is a perfect choice for any screenwriter looking for inspiration, a place where finding incredible, compelling and different stories.
