Authentic Salento Experience: Culture, Food, and Local Traditions

Highlights

• Authentic Experiences
• Local Flavors
• Small Groups

What's included

Itinerary

1. 1

   Stop 1

   1h

   Here, where the cliffs meet the salty wind and the Mediterranean scrub smells of antiquity, a story that began more than fifty years ago comes to life. A trip to Sardinia, a return to Salento, and a courageous vision gave rise to a unique dairy production: cheeses born just a few meters from the sea. In Torre Sant'Emiliano, cows, sheep, and goats graze freely on the coast, feeding on wild herbs, sea salt, and sun. It is from this living landscape that genuine milk is born, capable of transforming into soft ricotta, primi sali, savory pecorino, and matured cheeses with an unmistakable character. The visit is a story that passes from the hands of the shepherds to the ancient cheesemaking techniques, up to the tasting. What to see: - The pastures overlooking the sea - The areas dedicated to milking and milk processing Tasting: - Ricotta, primo sale, giuncata, and aged cheeses - Honey, jams, pâtés, savory sauces, and select wines

2. 2

   Stop 2

   1h

   In the heart of the Salento countryside, in Uggiano La Chiesa, a stone's throw from Otranto, amid dry stone walls and the sea breeze, the Caggese family has carried on the tradition of extra virgin olive oil for over a century. Here, strong olive trees grow, rooted in a land steeped in sun and history, and from here comes an artisanal EVOO that captures the authentic essence of Salento. What to see: - Walk among the olive trees - Company story Tasting: - Pure olive oil - Friselle with tomato

3. 3

   Stop 3

   1h

   Among wind-soaked vineyards and stones that tell of myths and legends, Masseria Marangelli is a gateway to the most authentic Terra d'Otranto. Here, the Marangelli family has transformed an idea into an identity, choosing to give their name to the company to preserve its history. The visit is a sensory journey through vineyards, vegetable garden, and memories, all the way to the masseria: a place designed to rediscover time, silence, and pleasure. Menhir Marangelli wines—such as Sale, Menhir Rosato, and Pietra—are made from iconic grape varieties of Salento and become the common thread in a story that unites flavor, landscape, and culture. What to visit: - The masseria and surrounding vineyards - The vegetable garden-vineyard and the hospitality areas Tasting: - 3 selected glasses - Bread, oil, focaccia, and farm products

Before you go