Masseria Il Frantoio is an agriturismo—a working farm hospitality property—located on the SS16 state road near Ostuni in Brindisi province, Apulia. The masseria traces its origins to the 16th century, when it was established as an olive oil production estate, and the property remains a working farm producing award-winning extravirgin olive oil from its ancient groves. Masseria Il Frantoio is one of the most celebrated masserias in the Ostuni area, combining authentic agricultural heritage with refined hospitality in a setting of historic stone buildings, terraced gardens, and centuries-old olive trees.
Accommodation consists of rooms and suites housed in the converted farm buildings, decorated with antique furnishings, locally woven fabrics, and terracotta details. Rates begin at approximately €160 per night for standard rooms, with suites from €220. A large outdoor pool is set within the garden and surrounded by olive and citrus trees. The farm restaurant is the property's most acclaimed feature: dinner at Masseria Il Frantoio is a fixed-menu farm-to-table experience rooted entirely in the estate's produce and the ancient Puglian tradition of cucina povera—dishes prepared with whatever the land provides seasonally. The table is set once nightly for guests and a limited number of outside diners by reservation; advance booking is essential.
The estate's olive oil production facilities are open for tours and tastings, and guided walks through the ancient groves are offered during the harvest season, typically in October and November. Cooking classes taught by the masseria family focus on traditional Puglian bread, pasta, and preserves. The property lies just off the coast road, eight kilometres from Ostuni's centro storico and approximately fifteen kilometres from the Adriatic beaches. The White City of Ostuni, its market, and its baroque cathedral are easily reached by car.
Room types
- Rooms from €160/night (~$173)
- Suites from €220/night (~$238)
Amenities
- pool
- farm restaurant
- olive oil production
- cooking classes
- garden
- wifi
Location
SS16 km 874, 72017 Ostuni BR, Italy
40.7150, 17.5720 View on map
Highlights
- Working olive oil farm producing award-winning Apulian extravirgin olive oil since the 16th century
- Farm restaurant serving a fixed nightly menu rooted in estate produce and traditional cucina povera
- Ancient olive grove walks and olive oil tastings, especially during the October–November harvest season
- Pool and terraced garden set among centuries-old olives and citrus trees near Ostuni
- Cooking classes in traditional Puglian bread, pasta, and farm preserves
Tips for visiting
- Dinner at the farm restaurant must be reserved well in advance—sometimes weeks ahead in high season
- The olive oil harvest tour in October and November is an unmissable experience for food enthusiasts
- A car is essential; the masseria is on the SS16 without reliable public transport access
- Guests with dietary restrictions should notify the masseria well in advance as the fixed menu has limited flexibility
- Morning walks through the olive groves are best before 9:00 am when light and temperatures are most pleasant
Accessibility
The masseria grounds include gravel paths and uneven stone surfaces between buildings and the pool area. Most guest rooms are on the ground floor and accessible without stairs. Guests with specific mobility needs are advised to contact the property in advance to confirm room arrangements.
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Frequently asked questions
Is dinner at Masseria Il Frantoio open to non-residents?
Yes, the farm restaurant accepts outside diners on a reservation basis. Tables are very limited, and advance booking—sometimes weeks ahead in peak season—is essential.
What is cucina povera at Masseria Il Frantoio?
Cucina povera refers to the traditional cooking of southern Italian peasant culture, using seasonal, locally grown, and preserved ingredients. At Il Frantoio, the nightly menu changes with what the farm and garden produce seasonally.
Does the masseria offer olive oil to purchase?
Yes, the estate's award-winning extravirgin olive oil is available for purchase at the masseria in a range of bottle sizes. It is also used throughout the cooking and tasting experiences.
What is the best time to visit Masseria Il Frantoio?
Late spring and early autumn offer the most pleasant weather. October through November is olive harvest season—an especially atmospheric time, with harvest activities and oil-pressing available to observe.
How far is the masseria from Ostuni's historic centre?
The masseria is on the SS16 coast road, approximately eight kilometres from Ostuni's centro storico. The journey takes about fifteen minutes by car.