Masseria Brancati
Discover Puglia's ancient olive heritage at Masseria Brancati, home to millennia-old trees and exceptional olive oil. Experience history and taste tra...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant weather for grove walks
Masseria Brancati
Best Time
Pleasant weather for grove walks
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover Puglia's ancient olive heritage at Masseria Brancati, home to millennia-old trees and exceptional olive oil. Experience history and taste tradition.
"One of the most amazing parts of our trip through Puglia was this tour! So interesting and informative."
Book Tours in Advance
:admission_tickets: Secure your spot for popular olive grove and tasting tours, especially during busy seasons.
Wear Comfortable Shoes
:athletic_shoe: You'll be walking through olive groves and historic areas, so comfy footwear is a must.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Ancient Olive Grove
Masseria Brancati grounds
Walk among some of Italy's oldest olive trees, some dating back thousands of years. A truly awe-inspiring sight.
+1
Olive Oil Tasting
Tasting room
Discover the nuances of extra virgin olive oil with an educational tasting session. Learn to differentiate flavors and uses.
Ancient Milling Crypt
Underground section
Explore the historic underground crypt where olives were pressed centuries ago. A fascinating glimpse into the past.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Your Olive Oil Experience
Accessibility Considerations
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book Tours in Advance
:admission_tickets: Secure your spot for popular olive grove and tasting tours, especially during busy seasons.
Wear Comfortable Shoes
:athletic_shoe: You'll be walking through olive groves and historic areas, so comfy footwear is a must.
Ask Questions!
:speech_balloon: Guides are knowledgeable and eager to share insights about olive oil and the farm's history.
Don't Skip the Tasting
:wine_glass: The olive oil tasting is a highlight and very educational. You'll learn a lot! +1
Tips
from all over the internet
Book Tours in Advance
:admission_tickets: Secure your spot for popular olive grove and tasting tours, especially during busy seasons.
Wear Comfortable Shoes
:athletic_shoe: You'll be walking through olive groves and historic areas, so comfy footwear is a must.
Ask Questions!
:speech_balloon: Guides are knowledgeable and eager to share insights about olive oil and the farm's history.
Don't Skip the Tasting
:wine_glass: The olive oil tasting is a highlight and very educational. You'll learn a lot! +1
Check Accessibility
:wheelchair: The underground crypt may pose challenges for those with mobility issues.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Masseria Brancati for its informative and engaging tours, particularly highlighting the ancient olive groves and the educational olive oil tastings. The guides, often family members, are commended for their knowledge and passion, making the experience deeply personal and worthwhile. Some note that certain historical areas might be challenging for those with mobility issues.
"Olive orchard and ancient milling tour was very informative and engaging - our guide was an 8th-generation family owner. He graciously shared lots of cultivation ideas and milling history with our group. Very interesting! We all loved the tasting at the end of the tour - well worth the trip"
Bill Campbell
"We took the Olive grove tasting and tour. Really well done, informative, fun, and a great tasting the end."
Rob M
"Fantastic! Mid winter we were fortunate to have a wonderful & informative tour. Astonishing place! I have recommended it to many friends.
Would love to return in fall & stay for a few nights."
Carole Whelan
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Masseria Brancati is located near Ostuni. Many visitors opt for a rental car for flexibility, as it's a short drive from the town center. Taxis are also available, though can be more expensive. Some tours might offer pick-up options.
Public transport options directly to Masseria Brancati are limited. It's best accessed by car or as part of an organized tour that includes transportation.
If you're coming from Polignano a Mare or Locorotondo, renting a car is the most convenient option. The drive is scenic and relatively short.
Yes, there are parking facilities available for visitors arriving by car.
Cycling is possible if you enjoy longer rides through the Puglian countryside, but it's a significant distance for many. Ensure you have a reliable bike and navigation.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
It is highly recommended to book your tour and tasting experience in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, to guarantee your preferred time slot.
Opening hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check their official website or contact them directly for the most up-to-date tour schedules and availability.
Tour and tasting prices vary depending on the package chosen. Expect to pay a moderate fee, which is generally considered well worth the experience and educational value.
Yes, Masseria Brancati typically offers tours focusing on the olive grove, the ancient milling process, and culminates in an olive oil tasting. +1
Masseria Brancati primarily operates through guided tours and pre-booked experiences. Spontaneous visits without a reservation may not be possible.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Tours typically last around 1.5 to 2 hours, allowing ample time for exploring the grove, learning about the history, and enjoying the tasting.
The tour can be engaging for older children who are interested in nature and food production. However, the historical aspects and tasting might be less captivating for very young ones.
The tasting involves learning to identify different olive oil varietals, their aromas, and flavors. You'll understand what makes 'extra virgin' truly special. +1
Yes, there is a small store where you can purchase the high-quality olive oil produced on-site. There's no pressure to buy, but it's a great souvenir.
Restroom facilities are available for visitors during their tour.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, photography is generally allowed and encouraged, especially in the beautiful olive groves and historic areas. Capture those ancient trees!
The ancient olive trees, especially the 3000-year-old one, are iconic photo opportunities. The underground crypt also offers unique, atmospheric shots.
Drone usage policies can vary. It's best to inquire directly with Masseria Brancati before your visit if you plan to use a drone for aerial photography.
The olive groves offer beautiful natural light, especially in the morning and late afternoon. The underground areas will be darker, requiring good camera settings.
A standard camera or smartphone is sufficient. If you're serious about photography, a wide-angle lens can be great for capturing the vastness of the grove.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider focusing on the visual aspects of the grove and the historical elements of the milling process. The presence of cats on the property has also been noted, which can be an added delight for younger visitors.
Ensure comfortable footwear for everyone, as there will be walking involved.🌿 Nature & History Enthusiasts
The ancient milling crypt provides a tangible connection to historical food production methods, making it a fascinating site for anyone interested in archaeology and traditional crafts. The family's long-standing stewardship of the land further enhances the historical narrative.
foodie travelers
Beyond the tasting, the experience offers insight into the agricultural heritage that underpins Puglian cuisine. You'll leave with a deeper appreciation for the ingredients and the dedication involved in producing them, making it a truly enriching experience for any food lover.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Ancient Olive Trees of Masseria Brancati
+1These trees are a vital part of the Masseria Brancati olive oil production. The unique terroir and the age of the trees contribute to the exceptional quality and distinct flavor profile of their olive oil. Visitors can learn about the cultivation techniques passed down through generations, ensuring the preservation and health of these precious natural resources.
The experience of seeing these trees is often described as awe-inspiring and unforgettable. It's a chance to connect with nature on a profound level and appreciate the resilience and beauty of these ancient organisms.
Understanding Olive Oil Production and Tasting
A key highlight is the olive oil tasting session. Here, you'll be guided through the sensory experience of appreciating different types of extra virgin olive oil. This isn't just about tasting; it's about understanding the subtle differences in aroma, flavor, and texture, and learning how to identify quality. Guides explain how to discern notes like peppery, fruity, or herbaceous, and suggest pairings for various dishes.
This educational approach demystifies olive oil, transforming it from a simple condiment into a complex culinary element. Many visitors report leaving with a newfound appreciation and the ability to confidently select and use high-quality olive oils in their own cooking.
The History and Family Legacy
The Antica Masseria Brancati dates back to the 16th century, and its structures, including the ancient milling crypt, reflect centuries of agricultural life in Puglia. The family's dedication to preserving this legacy, from the ancient trees to the traditional production methods, is evident throughout the estate.
This deep-rooted history makes a visit to Masseria Brancati a journey through time. It's an opportunity to understand the enduring connection between the land, its people, and the production of one of Italy's most cherished products.
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