Following our culinary journey through Le Marche and Lake Garda in our previous blog, we now head south for more delicious inspiration. Puglia and Sicily are where you find many of our favourite Italian villas for foodies. Shaped by a warm Mediterranean climate and distinctive history, these southern regions produce incredible cuisine. From sun-drenched olive groves and rolling vineyards to seafood-rich coastal cuisine and citrus groves, these regions are treat for the senses.
Puglia and Sicily are known for their intense flavours, vibrant produce and rich culinary traditions, shaped by the land and sea that surround them. Staying in a villa in these regions offers food lovers the perfect base to experience Italy’s cuisine in the most authentic way possible.
Firstly, you can start the day by sourcing fresh produce locally for lunch later at the villa. Secondly, explore villages where family-run trattorias serve dishes perfected over generations. Thirdly, be sure to try traditonal snacks and street food while you explore the area. Finally, enjoy private chef-prepared meals under the stars at the villa, perhaps for a special celebration or two. From rustic farm-to-table dining to street food or Michelin-starred experiences, Puglia and Sicily offer endless possibilities for foodies.
Puglia – A Land of Timeless Traditions
Puglia stretches along the heel of Italy’s boot, a region of whitewashed villages, Baroque architecture, sun-drenched olive groves and stunning coastal landscapes. With an agricultural tradition spanning centuries, Puglia is renowned for its extra virgin olive oil, handmade pasta and fresh Adriatic seafood.
What makes Puglia special for food lovers?
Puglian cuisine is a true reflection of the land, with dishes that are simple yet bursting with flavour. Orecchiette con Cime di Rapa, the region’s signature pasta, combines handmade pasta with turnip tops, garlic and chilli for a dish that is as comforting as it is delicious. Fave e Cicoria, a creamy fava bean purée served with wild chicory, embodies Puglia’s rural traditions, while freshly caught seafood is a highlight along the coast, particularly in Gallipoli and Monopoli. Wines such as Primitivo di Manduria and Negroamaro provide the perfect accompaniment to the region’s robust flavours.
If you are on the move, perhaps heading to the beach, be sure to stop by a local salumeria for a freshly made panino filled with regional cured meats and cheeses. Along the coast, try i ricci, or freshly harvested sea urchins, eaten straight from the shell with rustic bread and a splash of crisp white wine. For those who want to start the day like a local, nothing beats heading to a traditional bar for a pasticciotto or custard-filled cornetto and a strong Italian espresso.
Villas for foodies in Puglia
Kyvos is an elegant, contemporary-style villa near Santa Maria di Leuca and an idyllic base for experiencing Puglia. Languishing in the tip of Italy’s heel, this villa rewards you with a fabulous backdrop of stunning sea views as well as easy access to picturesque beaches. A chic, modern kitchen inside will inspire budding chefs in the group, while a dining area on the terrace is the perfect place to enjoy al fresco meals together. The nearby town of Leuca is known for its historic lighthouse and elegant coastal promenade, while the villa’s location provides opportunities to explore both the Adriatic and Ionian coasts.
Opuntia Trulli e Lamie is perfect for a gathering of friends or family. Set in the rolling hills of the Valle d’Itria and surrounded by a vast garden and olive trees, it feels private and peaceful. Stylish but traditional, the structure integrates the traditional conical roof and cool stone of the ‘trulli houses’, resulting in a welcoming space for relaxation. It is also beautifully equipped for foodies. Inside, a convivial open-plan kitchen, dining and living space set the scene for leisurely meals, while a built-in barbecue with a sink and food preparation area are perfect for laid-back dining al fresco together after a swim in the magnificent saltwater pool. Here you are also well positioned for exploring Ostuni, Locorotondo and Polignano a Mare, with their excellent trattorias and coastal restaurants.
Sicily – A Fusion of Cultures and Flavours
Sicily is a land of contrasts, shaped by volcanic landscapes, sun-drenched citrus groves and a long and varied coastline. The cuisine of Sicily is an intriguing mix of Arab, Greek and Spanish influences, resulting in a bold and diverse gastronomic identity.
Why is Sicily a dream for food lovers?
Sicilian cuisine is as varied as the island’s landscapes. The sweet and sour notes of Caponata, made with aubergines, capers and raisins, reflect its Arab heritage. Coastal towns celebrate their fishing traditions with dishes such as Sarde a Beccafico, where fresh sardines are stuffed with breadcrumbs, pine nuts and citrus zest. Cassata Siciliana, a decadent ricotta-based cake, highlights the Spanish influence on Sicilian desserts. The island’s volcanic terrain also gives rise to exceptional wines, such as those from Mount Etna’s fertile slopes, where Nerello Mascalese and Carricante grapes produce some of Italy’s most exciting vintages.
Sicily is also a paradise for street food lovers, and no visit would be complete without exploring Ballarò Market in Palermo. Here, food stalls overflow with stigghiola (grilled lamb intestines), panelle (crispy chickpea fritters), and golden arancini – deep-fried rice balls filled with ragù or mozzarella. Those with a sweet tooth can indulge in brioche con gelato, where a soft, buttery brioche is stuffed with creamy gelato, or sample delicate ricotta and pistachio pastries that capture the essence of Sicilian desserts.
Villas for foodies in Sicily
Perched on the northern coast of Sicily, Villa Vittoria, near the little town of Lascari, offers a serene escape between mountains and the sea. Off the beaten track, but just a short drive from the larger coastal town of Cefalù, this villa has easy access to sandy beaches, historic sites and an array of authentic Sicilian trattorias and restaurants. Nearby, the medieval town of Castelbuono is renowned for its Slow Food movement, panettone making and local manna production, making it a must-visit for food lovers.
Situated on the slopes of Mount Etna on the grounds of a farm, Agrume’ Country House has a distinctly Sicilian feel. Colourful interiors, artworks and antiques effortlessly combine modern comforts such as its sleek kitchen and smooth floors. Surrounded by citrus orchards and vineyards, the setting connects you to Sicily’s agricultural traditions. Located near Santa Venerina and Zafferana Etnea, this villa is ideal for those looking to discover volcanic wines, traditional Sicilian dishes and breathtaking hiking trails around Europe’s highest active volcano.
More villas for foodies
For more villa inspiration, go to our website for more villas in Sicily and villas in Puglia. All of our villas are equipped for al fresco dining and some have the option of a private chef for a truly relaaing stay. Please contact us to tell us your holiday plans so we can guide you to a suitable villa.
