Last Updated on September 8, 2025 by Lauren Belzer Sanford
There’s something special about ending a once-in-a-lifetime celebration somewhere that feels like a deep exhale. After the whirlwind of our wedding in the Ostuni countryside, we traded the joyful chaos of family and friends for three quiet days at Masseria Santo Scalone — a serene hideaway between Ostuni and Carovigno, in the heart of Puglia.
This marked the kick-off to our honeymoon, our post-wedding wind-down — a time to slow our pace, reflect on the magic that had just happened, and soak in a little more of this part of southern Italy before heading to the next destination.
Arriving at the Masseria
We left Masseria Grieco after saying goodbye to our guests and took a short 15-ish-minute drive to Masseria Santo Scalone. From the moment we stepped through the gates, we knew we’d made the right choice.
Related: 3 Masseria Hotels to Visit in Puglia
Stone walls framed by vineyards, olive trees, and horses, a courtyard lined with pops of burnt orange furniture and umbrellas, and the faint scent of jasmine in the air — it all felt effortlessly romantic. Check-in was warm and personal, complete with a glass of welcome Prosecco and the best taralli we had on the trip!
Our {Junior} Suite
We stayed in one of the spacious junior suites, a perfect mix of rustic charm and understated luxury. Stone walls and arched ceilings gave it that authentic Puglian feel, while modern touches — crisp white linens, thoughtful lighting, and a beautiful walk-in shower — made it supremely comfortable. Scalone easily had the comfiest bed of all three masserie that we visited.
The back door opened to a little private terrace where we could enjoy a soft breeze, and the front door opened to a little patio where we could hang out with the cats wandering the property, a view of the reception structure from our window.
The Pool & Grounds
If the masseria is your home, then the pool is its heart. Surrounded by cushioned loungers and cabana-like structures, it became our favorite place to spend a late morning or pre-dinner evening in the sun. The water was crystal clear and refreshing — exactly what you want in Puglia’s early summer heat.
Beyond the pool, the grounds are relatively expansive. I wandered up the drive to where the vineyards sprawled and the masseria’s gorgeous horses roamed. Even with 19 rooms, it was hard to run into too many people given the different areas to spend your time.
Dining at Masseria Santo Scalone
Dinner on our first night was a highlight — a four-course Apulian meal included in the room package we booked. A seasonal menu that felt like a love letter to flavors from Puglia. Fresh pasta and risotto, locally caught seafood, vegetables from the garden, and delicious desserts. We ate slowly in the outdoor dining area at the back of the property, lingering over every bite and glass of red wine.
Breakfast each morning was served with the same attention to detail — homemade pastries, local cheeses, fresh fruit, and delicious cappuccinos. And I can’t forget the amazing lunches we enjoyed in the dining room, dishes that rotated with what fresh ingredients the chef had access to that day. We’re big Spaghetti alle Vongole lovers, and it was fun to try a few different variations from day to day.
Pro Tip: If you are not staying at the masseria, you can make a reservation to enjoy a dinner at Santo Scalone’s restaurant. Don’t forget to arrive a bit early for a pre-dinner cocktail in the courtyard!
Exploring Nearby
While we were tempted to stay put the entire time, we did venture out. On our last full day, we took a little half-day trip to Lecce, often called the “Florence of the South,” where we wandered through Baroque streets, had yet another plate of Spaghetti alle Vongole, spritzes in sunny piazzas, and admired the ornate churches. The reception desk staff were incredibly helpful with sharing the best place(s) to park, eat, and which churches to make sure we didn’t miss!
The masseria is also within a short drive of Ostuni, Carovigno, and several beautiful beaches — perfect for adding a mix of culture and coastline to your stay.
Why We Loved It
Masseria Santo Scalone was the perfect ending to our time in Puglia. It’s a place where you can slow down, breathe deeply, and savor the simple things — from the rustle of breeze through trees and vines to the taste of homemade pasta. After a week of celebration, it was exactly what we needed.
Know Before You Go
Location: Masseria Santo Scalone is located just outside Carovigno, about 20-ish minutes from both Brindisi Airport and Ostuni. It’s well-positioned for exploring the Valle d’Itria, coastal towns, and Baroque cities like Lecce.
Transportation: While you can explore by taxi or transfer, and the Scalone staff are more than happy to help you with transportation, renting a car gives you the most flexibility for beach days and countryside drives.
Best Time to Visit: Late May through early October is perfect for warm weather and pool days. June (when we visited) and September are ideal for fewer crowds while still enjoying generally sunny skies.
Booking Tips: The masseria is on the smaller side and books quickly, especially in peak season. I recommend reserving as early as possible (6+ months in advance) if you are planning a trip during the summertime.
Dining: Don’t miss dinner on-site at least once — it’s a beautiful, seasonal, and intimate experience!
What to Pack: Light, breathable clothing for warm days, a light sweater for evenings, a swimsuit for the pool, and comfortable shoes for exploring towns and markets.
If you’re looking for a romantic, peaceful base in Puglia — whether for a honeymoon or simply a restorative getaway — this is a place you’ll never forget!
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