Exploring the Quiet of Borgo degli Ulivi

Perhaps less dramatic than Italy’s other destinations, Puglia reveals itself quietly. Ancient trees have watched over the land for centuries, their presence still felt in a region shaped by continuity. Located at the heel of Italy’s boot, Puglia offers a sense of steadiness, something reflected in both its way of life and people.

From the practical, yet almost mystical trulli, with their conical roofs, to the millions of olive trees that produce more olive oil than any other region in Italy, Puglia quietly persists, nourishing its people through the natural abundance the land gifts.

Tucked among ancient olive groves and surrounded by rolling farmland, lies Masseria Torre Maizza, in the heart of Puglia’s Itria Valley. 

Nothing about the area feels like a coincidence. The land rolls effortlessly, woven together by the dry-stone walls and olive groves that structure the landscape. That same sense of intention carries through to Masseria Torre Maizza’s most secluded corner, Borgo degli Ulivi, a new private wing of eleven suites.

Designed to reflect the land, Borgo degli Ulivi pays poetic homage to its surroundings through delicate botanical artworks, sculptural wood elements and local Trani stone flooring. Celebrating local heritage, ceramics by local Grottaglie artists are dotted throughout the space, complementing hand-woven rugs and sumptuous fabrics, while bespoke details include a coffee table with tiles made using the ancient smammriato technique.

The light softens early here, the scent of your morning espresso agreeably blending with wild herbs carried through the valley. With a bright sun making its presence known more than 300 days per year, a leisurely breakfast on the terrace is rooted in Puglia’s culture.

Relax with family, framed by the pink bougainvillea that cascade over the wing’s stone walls, as you plan your day. With five spacious living rooms and dining areas, this private sanctuary is thoughtfully designed for effortless living. Children can drift between the gardens and four private pools, while parents have tranquil corners to retire with a book. In Puglia, the land remains constant, but family sits at its heart.

There is nothing ceremonial about dining together in Puglia, with ease is simply how life is lived. Families often reside across generations, with extended relatives close enough to be part of the everyday. As the day unfolds, drift to the beach at Lido Bambù. Time becomes a blur as siblings become co-conspirators in sandcastle architecture, their grandparents watching on. Older children and adults have an array of water borne activities to choose from, supported by an expansive coastline.

For those drawn to sensory experiences, go in search of native aromatic plants with a master perfumer, through the grounds of Masseria Torre Maizza. The scents here are seasonal, ensuring that any bespoke fragrance created is truly of the present moment. Or perhaps take shade beneath the olive groves for a Pilates session with friends, the ancient trunks twisting, but rooted as you find your own alignment. 

In Puglia, days widen to make room for the whole family. As evening settles, retreat to your terrace for a shared moment at twilight, perhaps over dinner together, prepared by a private chef. Sunset arrives slowly as the olive leaves catch their last light.

Conversations overlap with excitement, everyone eager to recount their day, pausing only to pass the fresh lemon and parsley over plates of bombette and roast vegetables. As the sun lowers along the horizon, attention remains in the present, with the trace of fresh sea salt still lingering in the air. 

From family stays, to private events, find out more about Borgo degli Ulivi at Masseria Torre Maizza and start your next unhurried adventure.