Staying at Tenuta Nuccio means coming into direct contact with the most authentic Salento: villages that preserve their soul, traditions that withstand the passage of time, and landscapes where sea and countryside blend in a unique balance. Each place tells a different story, shaped by architecture, faith, folk rituals and genuine flavours. And it all begins here, in Ruffano, the village that hosts us and represents the beating heart of this land.
Ruffano enchants with its understated elegance and rich cultural heritage. The historic centre is a maze of cobbled alleys, hidden courtyards and palaces that bear witness to centuries of history. Strolling here means breathing an intimate atmosphere, far from the rush of modern life, and discovering authentic glimpses of Salento.
Among the most remarkable landmarks stands the Mother Church of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary, a majestic building dominating the main square and preserving fine works of art. Not far away, the former Capuchin Convent reveals the deep bond between the community, spirituality and monastic life.
A short distance from the centre rises the Sanctuary of Madonna della Serra, offering not only a place of faith but also a spectacular view over the Serre Salentine and the surrounding farmland.
Ruffano is also a lively town, animated by celebrations and community gatherings. During the summer, its squares become a stage for cultural events, concerts and festivals that celebrate folk music and local traditions.
The most eagerly awaited moment is the Feast of San Rocco in Torrepaduli, a hamlet of Ruffano: on the night between 15 and 16 August, thousands of people gather to witness the famous sword dance, a symbolic ritual accompanied by the beat of tambourines, turning the square into a vibrant stage of emotions.
Winter too has its charm: in December the village lights up for the Christmas Markets, with artisan stalls, live nativity scenes and moments of sharing that bring the whole community together. On these occasions, Ruffano reveals its warm and welcoming soul, offering visitors the chance to experience village life as part of the community.
Around Ruffano stretches a network of towns preserving the memory of rural life. Specchia, with its paved alleys and hidden courtyards, is recognised among the most beautiful villages in Italy. Tricase fascinates with its noble palaces and harbour, a meeting place between sea and town life.
Just a few kilometres away lies Presicce-Acquarica, a municipality born from the union of two neighbouring settlements, sharing an extraordinary heritage: underground olive-presses, noble residences and enduring traces of olive oil culture, which has long defined the identity of this land.
Travelling towards the Adriatic coast, Otranto welcomes with its majestic Cathedral and the famous 12th-century floor mosaic, a stone tale that intertwines myth, religion and legend.
Further south, Santa Maria di Leuca becomes both a symbol and a boundary: the Sanctuary of Santa Maria de Finibus Terrae, flanked by the lighthouse, marks the point where the Ionian and Adriatic seas meet, creating an endless horizon that moves every traveller.
The sea is a constant companion on every journey. On the Ionian side, Marina di Pescoluse amazes with its crystal-clear waters and shallow seabed, perfect for those seeking relaxation. A little further north, Lido Marini offers wide, welcoming beaches where sunsets reflect on the water.
On the Adriatic side, the coast turns wild: from Baia dei Turchi to Punta Palascìa, Italy’s easternmost point, nature displays its raw power. Here every walk, every pause, every swim becomes an unforgettable memory.
Salento is also recognised in its flavours, telling the story of a people rooted in the land. Hot pittule, stuffed pucce, handmade pasta such as ciceri e tria, almond sweets, all accompanied by intense wines like Negroamaro and Primitivo, turn every festival into a celebration of taste.
On summer evenings, villages light up with illuminations, squares fill with music and the aromas of cooking spread through the air, creating an atmosphere that unites locals and visitors in one great celebration.