Masseria Potenti is the dream of a family from Puglia, in the South of Italy, who once decided to relocate to Milan and spend long summers in the family farmhouse on the outskirts of Manduria, a village in the heart of the Salento region.

Masseria Potenti is the story of a Pugliese family who revived a 16th-century traditional farmhouse to introduce the culture and cuisine of the Salento region to the world.

After decades of enjoying their farmhouse with family and friends during sunny and warm summers in Puglia, the family decided to return to their roots and start their most personal project by creating Masseria Potenti. They aimed to introduce the Puglian culture to the world through local agriculture and traditional cuisine in a laid-back environment at their farmhouse. The family wanted to share their pride in what it means to be Pugliese with guests and give them a sense of the historical and culinary richness of the Salento region. In their native Puglia, this is how the story of this family from southern Italy began to take shape after 30 years of living in the north of the country.

THE STORY BEHIND MASSERIA POTENTI AND ITS PEOPLE

Today, the story of Masseria Potenti revolves around the marriage of Maria Grazia and Paolo, along with their two children, Chiara and Walter. In 2003, the Tommasino family acquired an original farmhouse, a 16th-century masseria typical of the Puglia region and some parts of Sicily. It was not an ordinary residence, though. It was nothing less than a 130-hectare masseria, which formerly belonged to the wealthy and influential family of The Imperiali. The farmhouse's remarkable past makes it even more unique.

Located in Manduria's countryside, amidst Primitivo vineyards, olive groves, and the Ionian Sea, Masseria Potenti stands out because of its immaculate whitewashed structure, sun-blessed Mediterranean light, and natural scenery.

For many years, the Tommasino family used the masseria privately. However, it was only in the past few years that they slowly started to share it with visitors. Masseria Potenti opened its doors to revitalize regional agriculture by using organic production from their land. Olive oil, wine, jams from centuries-old orchards, and preserved vegetables are some of the most characteristic Puglian flavors grown at the masseria, following sustainable practices.

A few years later, the family's plan to convert parts of the farmhouse into a small hotel became a reality. To this day, Masseria Potenti has evolved into an unparalleled location with 23 lodgings for conscious travelers looking to explore the Salento region and its deep-rooted local gastronomy.

AN ODE TO MODERN MINIMALISM AND RUSTIC HOSPITALITY

Masseria Potenti inspires the urge to slow down and appreciate the gentle way of life with ease and joy. The entire property, indoors and outdoors, is covered in whitewashed local stone, creating a perpetual summertime vibe that encourages barefoot living all year round.

The farmhouse, meticulously renovated and honoring the original fortified construction from the 16th century, is genuinely exceptional due to its rustic-stylish design combined with modern minimalism. Hence, it features an optimal balance of authenticity and comfort.

Entering Masseria Potenti feels like being transported into an ancient world through its immense central high-walled courtyard, with a complex of buildings running along its two sides. These buildings include the family's residence and the hotel's guest rooms, historically the farmers' houses, the stables, and the barns.

Masseria Potenti also embodies the Puglian culinary art. Maria Grazia and her team masterfully cook traditional Pugliese recipes for their guests with a personal and contemporary twist. Maria Grazia always strives to surprise her guests through their palate by awakening their senses with unique flavors, colors, aromas, and textures.

Indulging in a homemade meal at the masseria, surrounded by the Pugliese countryside, is also an invitation to experience the history of this extraordinary land. After all, food is at the heart of what makes Puglia so fascinating.

WHY SHOULD TRAVELERS STAY IN A TRADITIONAL MASSERIA

Nowadays, many travelers are increasingly interested in staying in lodgings that are mindful of the environmental impact and are committed to protecting the uniqueness of the local landscapes. A masseria is a structure that aims to preserve the most authentic aspects of the Pugliese culture.

Sustainability and self-sufficiency are part of the essence at Masseria Potenti. Every food-related choice offered to their guests is either grown in their extensive gardens or sourced from nearby farmers with whom they have a long-standing connection. Additional sustainable practices are also in place to manage their environmental footprint efficiently, such as decreasing energy and water use and minimizing waste and recycling whenever possible.

The surroundings of Masseria Potenti are landmarks in the Puglia territory, and the Tommasino family is determined to preserve and thoughtfully promote their beloved homeland among conscious travelers. Some of the most stunning locations near Masseria Potenti, for those visitors not only interested in the natural beauty of Puglia but also its cultural heritage, are the historic baroque city of Lecce, Ostuni with its whitewashed old town, the peaceful city of Manduria, the lesser-known elegance of Martina Franca, and Grottaglie for anyone with a taste for traditional ceramics.

WHEN TO VISIT PUGLIA AND MASSERIA POTENTI

Puglia is an all-year-long destination. Therefore, it depends on the traveler's interests to decide which time of the year is most appropriate to visit this captivating region in southern Italy. But shoulder and off-season travel is recommended for those who wish to explore the distinctive villages, landscapes, off-the-beaten-path locations, and cultural highlights of Puglia at their own pace and outside the hustle and bustle of summer.

March, April, and May are excellent months to tour Puglia during the Spring blossoming season. With still warm but fresher days, October and November are ideal for visitors who prefer an autumnal experience in Puglia. Generally, relaxing seaside dips are also assured for sea lovers in May and October.

The Tommasino family and Masseria Potenti welcome travelers with open arms year-round. For those who genuinely want to discover Puglia, its traditions, and its territory, they provide unique activities tailored to their guests' preferences.

Whether it is through traditional Pugliese-style cooking classes, yoga retreats, strolls in the countryside for nature enthusiasts, wine, cheese, and olive oil tastings, or just being pampered by the pool for some wellness and relaxation time, staying at Masseria Potenti will be an unforgettable travel experience any time of the year.

Address: Contrada Potenti. 74024 Manduria (TA) | Puglia.

Instagram: @masseriapotenti

WORDS AND PHOTOS BY: SENSORY TRAVEL

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