Drawn to Puglia’s rugged coastline and understated beauty, Alexandra Heard and Heleena Trahanas, the co-founders and creative directors behind luxury lifestyle brand Alex and Trahanas, return annually in search of design inspiration and rustic Italian food. Here’s their ultimate guide to the southern Italian region.

Where to stay

The beginning of our love affair with Puglia started with a very special stay at Masseria Moroseta, about six years ago. ‘Masseria’ directly translates to ‘farmhouse’. We were welcomed with open arms into the six-bedroom house by founder Carlo Lanzini and his team, and from there we forged a beautiful friendship which continues to this day.

It’s become our happy place – an enclave of relaxation and rural simplicity. You’ll find Masseria Moroseta set on five hectares of centuries-old organic olive groves that overlook the sea and whitewashed old town of Ostuni. Not only did we fall in love with the carefully curated interior design, we also fell in love with the food here, too. Giorgia Goggi is the resident chef; she is incredibly talented and has a sophisticated sense of taste. By fusing the most interesting flavours together, she creates something delicious and unexpected on your plate.

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Where to visit

Puglia is a large region, so to get the most out of exploring it properly, we recommend jumping in a car and driving around. You’ll find the best beaches in Salento, just south of Puglia. The water is the most electrifying turquoise blue and green.

On the very southern tip of Italy’s heel is Marina di Novaglie, which is another beautiful spot for a dip. The city of Lecce is known for its beautiful baroque buildings.

And, although touristy, Polignano a Mare on the Adriatic coast is iconic and a good spot to walk around town and have some lunch, followed by a swim. For an aperitivo and dinner, head to the cobbled streets of Ostuni. You’ll find a quaint growers’ market here, as well. For those who prefer antique markets, try the town of Martina Franca. You’ll find some beautiful and unique pieces there.

Where to eat

The list is endless. Try Masseria Moroseta, which we’ve already spoken about, for a wholesome dinner by chef Giorgia Goggi. Taverna del Porto, in the coastal town of Tricase, is perfect for a delicious seafood lunch or dinner. Locanda Del Levante is also in Tricase, and is a really romantic fine-dining alfresco restaurant, perfect for couples or groups of friends who would like to have an intimate dinner.

For a long lunch, Lo Scalo might be the most perfect spot in Puglia. It’s a cliffside venue and offers unbeatable views of the sea and cliffs of Marina di Novaglie. There’s also direct access to the sea from the sun deck.

If you’re looking for a Michelin-star experience, we recommend dining at Già Sotto L’arco. The restaurant is set on the first floor of a Baroque palazzo in a piazza in Carovigno, and is run by a father and daughter team. Or alternatively, try Michelin-starred Pasha. The kitchen is run by chef Antonio Zaccardi and his wife, pastry chef Angelica Giannuzzi.

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