“Armando Balestrazzi’s ‘crazy’ idea to leave stressed corporate life in Bari and move to the country resulted in the wonderful Frantoio, a masseria with a genuine, country feel. An extraordinary collection of furniture, objéts and memorabilia fills public spaces and the 13 pretty bedrooms, housed in the 16th century farmhouse built around a bougainvillea-filled courtyard. Fruit, veg and herbs from the garden are used in fabulous multi-course meals prepared by Rosalba, Armando’s wife. House policy; no TVs in the rooms and no pool.”

Written by  Nicky Swallow

They say

“Masseria “Il Frantoio” is at the heart of Armando and Rosalba’s farm.The house is set out with antique bedrooms, there are two wonderfully tranquil gardens and a sixteenth century underground olive press. There are many communal areas. A ten minute drive will lead you to the four beaches, where there are umbrellas and lounges reserved for our guests.The kitchen ‘belongs’ to Rosalba, a passionate and creative chef. She leads a team of local women in a cuisine that incorporates all the organic and wild produce of the farm.“Il Frantoio” is in the middle of a 180 acre olive grove which one of us will happily show you around in his classic automobile. We will keenly explain all the different trees, all of which produce our
organic extra-virgin olive oils. From the sixteenth century Arabic citrus orchard we make different marmalades, all of which are served at breakfast. Breakfast is a delectable feast of home-made cakes and biscuits, local cheeses and salamis and a fantastic array of fresh fruit. Rosolio, a secret and antique digestivo, is also a main feature of “Il Frantoio”.”