Your adventure in Puglia begins at the serene luxury restored monastery, where the promise of discovery and connection greets you. As you settle into this picturesque haven, take a moment to tour its historic grounds, an intimate backdrop for the journey ahead. The highlight of the day is our welcome dinner, designed not just to indulge your senses with exquisite local cuisine but also to introduce you to your fellow travelers. This evening is the perfect opportunity to meet your new friends, individuals who share your curiosity and passion for slow, meaningful travel. Together, you’ll toast to the start of a journey filled with shared experiences, laughter, and the kind of deep connections that turn fellow travelers into lifelong friends.

Awaken to a leisurely morning at the monastery. Enjoy a delightful breakfast featuring freshly baked pastries, cakes, and seasonal figs from the garden, along with savoury delights to fuel your day.

Today, we embark on a journey into Puglia’s rich traditions. First, we’ll visit a local cheese maker to explore the art of cheese making, a sensory experience that connects you deeply to the region’s dairy heritage.

After indulging in the delights of cheese, we’ll return to the monastery in the late afternoon. Take this time to wander through the charming streets of Nardò, marvel at its baroque and rococo architecture, and perhaps find a cozy café for an espresso. Enjoy this moment to soak in the vibrant life of the town at your own pace.

As evening approaches, we gather for a curated dinner experience, savouring local flavours together. It’s the perfect setting to share stories from the day and forge deeper connections. After dinner, we’ll return to the monastery, hearts and bellies full, under the enchanting Puglian stars.

After a leisurely breakfast, embrace the slow pace of the day as we head to a local beach*. This is your perfect opportunity to dive into that book you’ve been meaning to read or simply bask in the sun alongside the locals, truly experiencing Puglia’s laid-back lifestyle.

As the beach day winds down, we return to the monastery where the talented Maria awaits to guide us through a hands-on cooking class. She’ll share her secrets for crafting the perfect orecchiette, a beloved Puglian staple, along with other seasonal delicacies that you’ll help prepare.

If we’re in luck, Maria might even reveal her legendary cheesecake recipe—a dessert that has become the stuff of legend from my last visit. This isn’t just dinner; it’s a feast of our own making, celebrating the culinary heart of Puglia under the stars.

*subject to weather conditions

Today, we dive deep into the heart of Puglia’s renowned ceramic culture, guided by a local expert. Our day begins with a scenic drive to Grottaglie, a town celebrated for its exquisite ceramic craftsmanship.

Experience exclusive access to local botteghe (workshops), where you’ll gain insights into the intricate process of ceramic making. This immersive journey not only unveils the artistry involved but also connects you to the stories and people behind each unique piece.

It’s an exploration of tradition, artistry, and the rich cultural roots that define Puglia, leaving you with a deeper appreciation for this vibrant craft.

After a leisurely breakfast, we’ll spend the morning enjoying the peaceful atmosphere of the monastery. Then, we’ll gather for a delightful lunchtime wine and olive oil tasting, where you’ll taste the local produce of Puglia and learn about the meticulous processes behind these culinary treasures.

In the afternoon, we’ll head to Lecce, where you’ll have free time to explore this charming city at your own pace. Known as the ‘Florence of the South,’ Lecce is famous for its stunning baroque architecture and vibrant street life.

As evening falls, we’ll come together for dinner at a local trattoria, continuing our culinary journey with the flavours of Puglia. This is a perfect opportunity to share your discoveries and experiences from the day, creating lasting memories together.

Today, I invite you to truly embrace the leisurely pace of life that defines Puglia. Our charming monastery, nestled among olive groves and garden, sets the perfect backdrop for a day of relaxation.

Take your time to lounge by the pool, soaking in the warmth of the Puglian sun, or indulge in a blissful massage to unwind and rejuvenate.

As the sun dips below the horizon, painting the sky in hues of gold and crimson, we’ll gather for our final farewell dinner. This evening is a moment to reflect, laugh, and share stories. It’s a time to express gratitude for the experiences we’ve shared and the friendships we’ve forged.

As we raise our glasses in a toast to Puglia, to slow travel, and to new beginnings, we know this farewell is not an end but the start of many more adventures to come.

After a final breakfast at the monastery, it’s time to say goodbye to this slice of paradise. Depart with a heart full of memories, a palate enriched by Puglia’s flavours, and a spirit rejuvenated by the beauty of slow travel.

Each day of this retreat has been crafted to offer a blend of relaxation, exploration, and culinary delight, ensuring that “Savour the Slow” is not just a journey, but a transformation.

Accommodation

• 6x nights accommodation in a private double room with ensuite 

Food

• 6x daily breakfast

• 6x daily dinners

• 4x lunches (lunch at beach club not included)

Drinks

• Still & sparkling water with all meals

• Wine included lunch & dinners (limits apply)

Experiences

• Ceramics guided experience (including entry to ceramics workshop, museum, restored ceramic landmark)

• Cheese experience

• Olive oil & wine tasting

• Cooking class

• Beach club access & chair hire

Transport

• Arrival & departure transfer from Brindisi airport (times allocated 2 months prior to departure)

• All transport during retreat in air conditioned vehicle