Cheesemaking Workshop in Puglia Near Lecce

Puglia , Italy

Cheesemaking Workshop in Puglia Near Lecce

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About this experience

Immerse yourself in the rich agricultural traditions of Puglia with a hands-on cheesemaking workshop located in a scenic farmhouse in Martano, just a short distance from Lecce. Guided by a local master cheesemaker, witness the fascinating transformation of fresh milk into mozzarella before rolling up your sleeves to craft your own delicious cheese to take home. Enjoy a guided tour of the farm, meet the animals, and savor a tasting of artisanal cheeses paired with exquisite local wines. For an added culinary delight, opt for the Farmer’s Lunch, featuring rustic dishes made with fresh ingredients from the land. This experience offers a unique connection to the heart of Puglia’s culinary heritage.

Available options

Workshop & Farmer's Lunch

Farmer's Lunch: Farmer’s Lunch with fresh mozzarella, handmade friselle, caprese salad, and seasonal vegetables, paired with a glass of wine.

Workshop & Tasting

Cheese Tasting: Sample freshly made artisanal cheeses paired with local wine.

What's included

Guided tour of a traditional farmhouse and introduction to local agriculture

Cheese tasting with a selection of artisanal cheeses and a glass of wine

Optional Farmer’s Lunch with fresh mozzarella, handmade friselle, caprese salad, seasonal vegetables

Hands-on cheesemaking workshop with your own creation to take home

Live mozzarella demonstration with a master cheesemaker

What's not included

Additional drinks not included in the tasting or lunch

Personal expenses and extras

Transportation to and from the farmhouse

Available languages

Guide guide

EN IT

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Public transportation options are available nearby

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Please wear comfortable clothing and closed-toe shoes suitable for walking around the farm and participating in the workshop. A hat and sunscreen are recommended in summer.

The itinerary may be subject to changes due to operational needs or weather conditions, but the number and quality of activities will be maintained.

Afternoon workshops are available on request with a minimum of four participants. Please contact us in advance to check availability.

Meeting point

The workshop takes place in a traditional farmhouse in Martano, easily reachable by car. You will need your own vehicle to reach the meeting point, as transportation is not provided.

About Puglia

Puglia, known as the heel of Italy's boot, is a region of stunning coastline, whitewashed hill towns, and ancient farmland. It offers a blend of rich history, vibrant culture, and some of the best food and wine in Italy, all at a more relaxed and affordable pace than many other Italian destinations.

Top Attractions

Alberobello

Famous for its unique Trulli houses, Alberobello is a UNESCO World Heritage site. These dry-stone huts with conical roofs are a must-see.

Historical Half day to full day Free to explore, entry fees for some Trulli museums

Polignano a Mare

A stunning coastal town known for its dramatic cliffs, turquoise waters, and charming old town. It's a great spot for swimming and enjoying seafood.

Beach Half day to full day Free to explore, fees for beach clubs and restaurants

Castello di Oria

A medieval castle with a rich history, offering panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.

Historical Half day Moderate entry fee

Gargano National Park

A beautiful national park with diverse landscapes, including forests, mountains, and coastline. Great for hiking and wildlife spotting.

Nature Full day to overnight Free to explore, fees for some attractions

Lecce

Known as the 'Florence of the South' for its stunning Baroque architecture and rich history.

Historical Full day Free to explore, fees for some attractions

Must-Try Local Dishes

Orecchiette con Cime di Rapa

A classic Puglian dish featuring homemade orecchiette pasta with turnip greens and anchovies, tossed in olive oil.

Dinner Vegetarian if anchovies are omitted.

Burrata

A creamy, rich cheese made from mozzarella and cream, often served with tomatoes and basil.

Appetizer Vegetarian.

Friselle

Twice-baked bread that is soaked in water and topped with tomatoes, onions, and olive oil.

Snack Vegetarian.

Panzerotto

A deep-fried pastry filled with tomato and mozzarella, similar to a calzone.

Snack Vegetarian.

Popular Activities

Hiking in Gargano National Park Scuba diving in Polignano a Mare Beach lounging in Polignano a Mare Wine tasting in Masseria Torre Maizza Exploring the Trulli houses in Alberobello Visiting the Basilica di Santa Croce in Lecce Swimming in the Adriatic Sea Boat tours along the coastline

Best Time to Visit

June to August

This is the peak tourist season with warm, sunny weather perfect for beach activities and outdoor exploration. Crowds are highest, and prices are at their peak.

25°C to 35°C 77°F to 95°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Italian
Widely spoken: English, French
English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited elsewhere

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Time Zone

GMT+1 (CET), GMT+2 (CEST during daylight saving time)

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Puglia is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates and friendly locals. However, petty theft and pickpocketing can occur in tourist areas and crowded places.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure
• Use licensed taxis
• Be cautious of strangers approaching you with unsolicited offers or requests

Getting there

By air

Bari Karol Wojtyła Airport • 8 km from city center
Brindisi-Casale Airport • 6 km from city center

By train

Bari Centrale, Brindisi Station

By bus

Bari Terminal Bus, Brindisi Terminal Bus

Getting around

Public transport

Buses are the primary mode of public transport in Puglia, offering a good network that covers most of the region. Services can be infrequent in rural areas.

Taxis

Available • Apps: FreeNow, ItTaxi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Bari Vecchia Polignano a Mare Old Town Alberobello Rione Monti

Day trips

Matera

100 km from Bari • Full day

A unique city known for its ancient cave dwellings, Sassi di Matera, and stunning rock-hewn churches.

Taranto

100 km from Bari • Full day

A coastal city with a rich history, featuring an impressive archaeological museum and a stunning castle.

Vieste

150 km from Bari • Full day

A picturesque coastal town on the Gargano Peninsula, known for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and dramatic cliffs.

Festivals

Festival della Taranta • August Fiera del Levante • September

Pro tips

Visit Alberobello early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy the Trulli houses in a more peaceful setting.
Try the local pasticciotto pastry, a sweet filled with custard or cream, and enjoy it with a cappuccino for a true Puglian experience.
Explore the region's agriturismi (farm stays) for an authentic and immersive experience, including farm-to-table dining and hands-on activities.
Learn a few basic Italian phrases to enhance your interactions with locals and show respect for the culture.
Visit the Gargano National Park for a mix of hiking, wildlife spotting, and stunning coastal views.