Puglia Beyond the Postcards

Puglia: a region rich in culture, craftsmanship, and culinary tradition that goes far beyond the surface.

Located in Italy’s heel, Puglia is a land of contrast and character. Here, ancient olive groves stretch for miles, stone trulli houses dot the landscape, and Baroque architecture tells stories of past civilizations. The region is renowned for its authentic, farm-to-table cuisine, bold wines, and a deep-rooted respect for the land and its seasons.

What makes Puglia truly special is its spirit, a unique blend of tradition and innovation, of slow living and luxurious simplicity. It’s a place where time seems to expand, where every detail - from the texture of handmade orecchiette to the patina of limestone walls - contributes to an atmosphere of effortless beauty.

Epoca Collection: Hospitality with Heart

Masseria De Virgilis

On our recent journey through Puglia, we had the pleasure of travelling with Epoca Collection, a curated portfolio of properties, boutique hotels and exclusive villas & masserie, that reflect the soul of this region. From timeless countryside estates to elegant coastal escapes, each property we visited offered a sense of place that was both refined and deeply personal.

But this trip wasn’t just about where we stayed - it was about how we explored. We ventured off the beaten track with experiences designed to reveal the hidden sides of Puglia driving a vintage Fiat 500 through winding rural roads, got immersed with private guided visits in Lecce, Martina Franca, Mesagne, Polignano a Mare - that opened doors to exclusive cultural sites few ever get to see. Every moment felt carefully considered, immersive, and full of local colour.

The Epoca philosophy is rooted in authenticity - celebrating local materials, stories, and traditions while elevating the guest experience through thoughtful design and discreet luxury. It’s not just about the destination, but the depth of connection you feel while you’re there.

Visiting Puglia  reminded us why first-hand exploration matters. It’s how we deepen our knowledge, build the right connections, and craft experiences that go beyond the expected - tailored to each client’s rhythm, desires, and dreams.