Environment
The dominating location of Masseria Poesia offers a 360-degrees panoramic view of the trulli, vineyards, farmers' fields and macchia mediterranea of the central Valle d'Itria. Horses often roam free in fields that are closed in only by low stone walls (cows are well-nigh invisible as they kept in shaded sheds). You may see herds of sheep and goats. Swallows and magpies are the most frequently visible birds. If you are lucky you may have a chance encounter with a fox or badger early in the morning or at nightfall. In Martina Franca there are a couple of donkey farms, some of which you can visit. Wooded areas include the Riserva Bosco dell Pianelle in Martina Franca and the Pineta Ulmo in Ceglie Messapica. Driving or cycling downhill from Cisternino close to the coast you can enjoy the spectacular view of vast fields with centuries-old olive trees (on a carpet of many-coloured flowers in Spring). Particularly the area near Montalbano, close to the coast, offers breathtaking views.
The Itria Valley straddles the acquedotto pugliese, a bicycle and hiking itinerary constructed on top of the APULIA ACQUEDUCT, a mammoth public project realised in the early 1900's. Heading to the coast you will find the archaeological park of Egnazia (with a splendid museum) and even some dolmen, specchie and paretoni.
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