OUR MASSERIA
Masseria Le Cerase is a beautifully fortified farmhouse in the heart of Puglia. Its secure courtyard and fortified structures denote the region’s battle strewn history, but where once stood a stronghold against marauding Barbary pirates, now stands an elegant family hideaway, teeming with narrative, begging to be explored. A luxury five bedroom villa with the kitchen, large living and dining areas, the pool and endless gardens, situated amidst 18 hectares of picturesque farmland – Masseria Le Cerase is the perfect combination of opulent elegance and rustic wilderness.
ENCHANGING LANDSCAPE
Our fully staffed luxury farmhouse could not be more conveniently situated, 3km from the historic town of Conversano, just a short drive from Bari and Brindisi, both of which are serviced by international airports. Masseria ‘Le Cerase’s once strategic vantage point offers sweeping views of protected ancient olive groves and the captivating Adriatic Sea. Nestled amidst 18 hectares of productive organic farmland, the Le Cerase estate yields delicious fresh produce for guests daily, and is a wonderland of exploration for budding botanists. The beach is just 3km away – an adventurous walk or a leisurely drive.
TIMELESS RESTORATION
The Masseria, formerly called Scatozzi, one of the oldest in the area, resulting in the locality of the surrounding district, was founded in the 18th century and later expanded in 1887 when it became the Fanelli family. The Masseria was a working farmhouse until the day this exciting restoration began. The ground floor rooms were used for agricultural purposes, while the prior owners occupied the first floor rooms only. Masseria Le Cerase’s owners saw the potential in this listed building, originally accessed via drawbridge, and enlisted the help of local craftsmen and international experts to turn it into something truly spectacular. Their sensitivity to the buildings unique legacy is evident in the features that have been maintained, such as the characterful cattle troughs in the drawing room, and the traditional stonework throughout the estate. The architect’s attention to detail and authenticity combined with the advanced technology of the plants give an air of modern refinement to the interior, while the history of the site lives in the massive stone.
SHARED SPACES
Whether the moment calls for a banquet en famille, or a stolen afternoon of quiet time for two, there are shared spaces at Masseria Le Cerase to suit every need. The grand Dining Hall sits 100 for dinner and is a spectacular setting for celebratory feasts. The Hall’s whit the stone vaults and arrow slit windows lend a majestic air to this rustic, stately space. The light and airy first floor is a charming place for casual dining. We are also blessed with many stunning places to dine al fresco. As pine gardens or inviting olive trees and carobs, where it is nice to rest or sleep during the summer heat or the manhole which offers water to the entire facility around which children can play table tennis or use the outdoor.
BEDROOMS
Masseria Le Cerase has 5 bedrooms sleep 10 in complete comfort. There are 3 apartments, two of which are composed of 2 double beds and 1 bathroom each, the last one is a double bedroom with a bathroom. These environments wind up on the first floor, opening outwards with 2 large outdoor panoramic terraces. The massive stone-faced ceilings and the expansive sea views combine with the interiors producing a breathtaking look. The result? Five private suites, each with a unique heritage, all full of rustic elegance and warmth.
DINING
The two grand Dining Hall sits 80 for dinner and is a spectacular setting for celebratory feasts. Our banqueting table bolsters time-honoured family gatherings with stately ease. The Dining Hall’s whit the stone vaults of the salon and arrow slit windows lend a majestic air to this rustic, dignified space. Outdoor dining is arguably the most enjoyable way to take in the delights of the Le Cerase estate. There are many places to dine at Masseria Le Cerase, all of them blessed with breathtaking views. A picnic at your favourite spot along our meandering pathways or dinner under the ancient olive groves and stars can be arranged with a day’s notice. The diversity of the estate yields a bounty of fresh produce, enabling our talented chef to source his organic fruit, vegetables and herbs from within the Le Cerase estate daily. The stunning simplicity of the local cuisine is rendered sublime by the quality and strength of our produce. Olive, oil, cherries, tomatoes and mushrooms are some of our favourite classic Apulian ingredients. While staying at Masseria Le Cerase you will sample Limoncello made with lemons, jams made with fruit from the orchard, honey from the Le Cerase beehives, and the house Passata made from our plump Kitchen Garden tomatoes. What indulgent sojourn would be complete without some refined yet hearty feasting?
ESTATE
Ancient olive groves and cherries The 18 hectare. Le Cerase estate encapsulates the diversity and richness of the Apulian countryside. Within its boundaries you will find ancient protected olive groves, productive working farmland, wild grass cherries. A walk, run, or adventurous cycle along our meandering pathways is the way to see it all, or to scope out the perfect spot for an afternoon of inspired contemplation or creativity. The beauty of the region lends itself to artistic representation. Dining al fresco is another way to immerse yourself in the Le Cerase estate. Our Products are available on our e-commerce: www.agriturismomontefieno.com/shop