Head to Puglia for a summer of food, wine and music

Summertime in Puglia is hot, vivacious and welcoming. The festivals from July to September offer visitors a glimpse into the past, present and future of Southern Italy, where locals demonstrate their proud Medieval heritage, distinct cuisine and unique identity in all its theatrical colour.

Visitors can enhance their Italian adventure by staying at one of the leading ‘agri-turismos’ in Puglia, Masseria Cimino. This 18th century farm-turned-boutique hotel, is unique in many ways. Situated next to the ancient Roman city of Egnathia, it’s the closest agri-turismo to the beach in Puglia. It’s also bang in the middle of its own PGA-designed 72 par golf course and features organic, local cuisine sourced from its own farm.

Most importantly, Masseria Cimino offers a relaxing, cool escape after a hot summers day of dining on local delicacies, tasting wines, watching processions of medieval horsemen; bargaining for sculptures made of salt or listening to international jazz.

Puglia is one of Italy’s best kept secrets; quiet and tranquil - a place where visitors can travel back in time and discover a rural, relaxed Italy. Yet in true Italian tradition, summer heralds the festival season across the medieval towns of Puglia; setting the stage for religious and historical celebrations that are full of music, colour and passion.

Couples, families and groups of golfers are regular guests at Masseria Cimino, and it’s the small details that sets this retreat apart – wide smiles and al fresco dining are a welcome sight; baskets in every room filled with goodies beckon guests on picnics; huge cushioned loungers by the pool entice sipping of Apulian wines; the rooftop terrace allows for some serious stargazing after sunset; and the food, in true Italian style, is sumptuous, fresh, seasonal and always plentiful.

Festivals abound in Puglia over the summer months. To find out more, see lonelyplanet.com/travelstories/article/puglia_0208.

British Airways and Ryanair offer up to seven flights a week to Bari, whilst Ryanair offers an additional three flights a week to Brindisi.

Masseria Cimino features 15 rooms including two suites. Rates per room on half board - Low season, €220–€390; mid-season, €300–€510; high season, €340–€590, including dinner, buffet breakfast and tax. Special ‘Golf and accommodation’ packages available.

Rates for Masseria Cimino guests to use San Domenico Golf start at €50 per person for 18 holes.

For more information on Masseria Cimino, visit Masseriacimino.com.