Masseria Moroseta
Masseria Moroseta is a charming bed & breakfast with six rooms amongst a 5 hectares organic olive grove between the Mediterranean and the white town of Ostuni.
Palazzo Piccinno encapsulates the essence of the original Salento – slow, simple and honest.
How would you describe Palazzo Piccinno in a nutshell?
Set within a 1900s building in the heart of Parabita (a town just minutes from Gallipoli), Palazzo Piccinno is one of only a few boutique bed and breakfasts in Salento. Drawing on a Neo-Gothic style, the palazzo was crafted by the same artisans who built the iconic Sanctuary of the Madonna della Coltura.
Contrasting with the building’s exterior style, the interior is light and fresh and our services are tailored to today’s travellers. Positioned strategically between the Ionian and Adriatic seas, we proudly serve as a base for unforgettable journeys of exploration.
What is the story behind Palazzo Piccinno, what was your inspiration to create it?
It all started with the building itself. Having the same artisans simultaneously constructing both the palazzo and the town’s main church, many features from the church were replicated in the palazzo. These include the large, tall windows, the Neo-Gothic columns, the door elements and the staircase. We loved the atmosphere of what felt almost like a sacred space.
From there, all of the refurbishment processes were carried out to protect the original features and provide a more relaxed and comfortable feel for our guests. The owners, Richard and Marco, spent part of their lives travelling for work and wanted to create a place that would represent what they love most about travel and hospitality. The result is an intimate and personalised experience for travellers wanting to explore the region.
How would you describe the atmosphere and the interior design of Palazzo Piccinno?
Relaxed, curated and personal. These are the words that best describe Palazzo Piccinno. With only four rooms, we can offer a tranquil and tailored service for our guests.
The interior design was executed to enhance the architectural features of the palazzo while providing an elegant and comfortable space. Many of the property’s original features have been retained, such as the double-height vaulted ceilings, the doors and door frames, the tiled floors and the studded entrance door.
To you personally, what is so special about Palazzo Piccinno?
We refer to Palazzo Piccinno as a microcosm of the best Puglia has to offer. It encapsulates the essence of the original Salento – slow, simple and honest.
Personally, I believe what sets us apart is our profound respect for the land and its people. As the saying goes: "It takes a village to raise a child.” We embody this ethos by striving to integrate as much local influence as possible. We actively promote local culture and artists through exhibitions and intimate concerts, as well as support local farmers by sourcing locally and honouring their way of life.
What do you particularly like about this part of Puglia?
Apart from the blue waters and white sands of the Ionian coastline, I personally like the fact that this part of Puglia is still very authentic and almost untouched. I love the fact that some beautiful spots are only known to locals (and they love to keep them secret so they don’t get too crowded). Here, life happens at a different pace – slow, warm and connected.
On the ground floor is the lobby, featuring a lounge area with a piano and seating where guests can enjoy a cup of tea or coffee during the day. On select evenings, local musicians are invited to perform on the piano and showcase their art.
Towards the rear of the property, we have a pool garden adorned with banana trees and a fire pit, offering guests a place to sunbathe, enjoy an aperitivo or simply relax. A dark pool serves as the focal point of the garden, surrounded by cushioned loungers and framed by cascading wall gardens. In the evenings, the staff set up candles around the garden, creating a serene and relaxed atmosphere where guests can enjoy a glass of wine.
Moving to the first floor, guests will find the bedrooms, each thoughtfully spaced and uniquely designed to highlight the beauty of the region. Each room is distinct, with specific themes such as Ancient Greece, Red Earth, Primitivo and Oliveto. All of the bedrooms have ensuite bathrooms equipped with luxury amenities and toiletries from Grown Alchemist.
Experience serenity in the Oliveto, a room that pays homage to Puglia's iconic olive groves and its liquid gold.
Balcony overlooking the town's castle and the town's main street. The flooring, adorned with its original tiles, doors, and windows, stands as a testament to its two-century history – an authentic time capsule.
Floor-to-ceiling windows invite the beauty of natural light, creating a serene atmosphere. A defining feature of Olivetto is its ceiling, adorned with frescoes showcasing glimpses of the neogothic style cherished by the original family.
Step into the expansive 25-square-meter bathroom, exclusively yours to savour and conquer, equipped with both a bathtub and a shower.
The room features: safe, Nespresso machine and kettle, TWG tea, bidet, Grown Alchemist bath amenities, bathtub with cascade shower, private balcony with view to the castle and air-conditioning.
Greece as we know is right across the sea, but Salento keeps a secret - it was also here where the Greeks arrived and established. This Greek influence echoes in the food, culture and even the dialect. This is what makes Salento special. The Magna Grecia room is a homage to the Grecia Salentina, and the references are in the small details.
Cozy up by the fireplace for warm conversations, surrounded by the allure of high vaulted ceilings, original tile flooring, and a high window framing moments of admiration – whether it’s watching the world pass by or counting stars.
The room features: safe, Nespresso machine and kettle, TWG tea, bidet, Grown Alchemist bath amenities, original floor tiles, vaulted ceiling, fireplace and air-conditioning.
This crimson soil graces every view, harmonizing with the vast olive tree orchards and the vibrant blue hues of the sea. Immerse yourself in the essence of this scenery in this room with high vaulted ceilings, authentic floor tiles, and a bathroom adorned in the rich tones of the red earth. Alternatively, savor the simplicity of a moment by the window, where you can leisurely enjoy a book while watching time unfold along the main road of the town.
The room features: safe, Nespresso machine and kettle, TWG tea, bidet, Grown Alchemist bath amenities, original floor tiles, vaulted ceiling and air-conditioning.
Specifically designed to evoke the deep red tones of Puglia's most celebrated wines, such as Salice Salentino and Primitivo di Manduria, this room features high ceilings and a captivating bathroom ambience. It's an ideal choice for those who value outdoor spaces, offering a spacious 25-square-meter balcony overlooking the pool and garden. Whether you want to bask in the sun, host an intimate dinner party, or simply savour a glass of Primitivo, this room provides the perfect setting to capture the moment.
The room features: safe, Nespresso machine and kettle, TWG tea, bidet, Grown Alchemist bath amenities, a 25 square meter terrace with a lounge area, air-conditioning.
In addition to our swimming pool, which is open 24 hours a day, we have a 24/7 concierge service that offers tailored suggestions based on each guest’s preferences. We can also handle bookings and arrangements to ensure a smooth and worry-free stay.
Private chefs and massage sessions are available on request and piano evenings are scheduled on select nights.
At Palazzo Piccinno, we have a concierge service dedicated to organising personalised activities tailored to our guests' interests. Options include romantic horseback rides at sunset along Torre San Giovanni Beach and boat excursions to explore Mediterranean Sea caves. We can also arrange gastronomic experiences at authentic trattorias in Parabita and tastings at renowned Primitivo wineries.
The closest beach to Palazzo Piccinno is Punta della Suina, named among Italy's top five most beautiful beaches by The Guardian. Just a 15-minute drive away, it remains largely natural, with only two beach clubs. Punta della Suina is our favourite beach, alongside Torre Lapillo and the picturesque Ciolo Canyon on the Adriatic coast.
Three standout attractions nearby that guests shouldn't miss while staying at Palazzo Piccinno are:
Palazzo Piccinno is located in Parabita, a charming town nestled in the heart of Salento, just 15 minutes’ drive from Gallipoli. Galatina and Nardo are 20 minutes away while Lecce is 30 minutes by car. This makes Palazzo Piccinno an ideal destination for guests seeking a tranquil retreat away from the hustle and bustle of Puglia’s larger cities. The locals warmly embrace visitors from all over, adding to the town's inviting atmosphere.
Parabita is also conveniently situated only 15 minutes’ drive from Punta della Suina, a beach that is affectionately known as the Caribbean of the Ionian Sea. It’s beloved by both locals and visitors alike. With its peaceful inland location yet close proximity to the coast, Parabita serves as the perfect base for guests looking to explore the surrounding area.
The best time to visit Palazzo Piccinno is undoubtedly spring. It's the perfect season, with the weather becoming warm enough for a swim in the sea and for exploring the cities without the summer crowds. May is particularly special for us as the weather is really nice and Parabita is bustling with activities, such as the renowned Madonna della Coltura Festival.
Summer also promises an exceptional experience, allowing guests to fully relish the nearby sea and warm evenings. Autumn holds its own charm, especially towards late September and October when the tourist crowds disperse, leaving behind a serene atmosphere. The mild climate still allows for beach enjoyment without the crowds.
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