Ostuni – La Collection Travel Notes

It was meant to be a short team escape - a moment of calm, a change of scenery. But Ostuni gave more than we could have anticipated. In this edition ofThe Edit, Florence shares her most beloved places to stay, see and perhaps most importantly, savour. Against the backdrop of Italy’s White City, our travel companion Viviane wore pieces from ourSaorsacollection, captured by our favourite photographers Laure & Tijs, as she moved through the sunlit streets of Ostuni.

La Città Bianca

We arrived just as the historic G7 Summit had taken over the region. The city was buzzing, even the Pope was paying a visit. Yet somehow, in the midst of all the commotion, Ostuni welcomed us with open arms. It was as if the whitewashed city knew exactly what we were looking for: inspiration, warmth, and a bit of wonder.

Despite its rising fame, Ostuni remains deeply authentic. Locals gather in the streets, chatting and laughing on their balconies, late into the evening. We felt more like guests in a community than visitors in a tourist town.

Antonio - From Host to Guide

 We met Antonio as our Airbnb host, but very quickly he transformed into so much more. A passionate Ostuni local, Antonio became our guide, our driver, and our storyteller. He showed us the hidden corners of the city that no guidebook would ever mention. We offered him a box of Belgian chocolates, a tradition we carry with us on every trip.

We discovered the historic city, perched on top of a picturesque hill and surrounded by olive groves that extend to the Adriatic Sea, on foot. Its narrow backstreets, littlepassages and flights of steps, with beautiful vistas from all angles, easily let you immerse yourself in ancient culture and tradition.

Favourite spots

Our days always started at our rooftop terrace of our cosy townhouse for breakfast. Florence being in charge of this important task, it always contained fresh tomatoes and Italian cheese, lots of cheese. (address Airbnb)

For coffee, breakfast, ice cream or anything else, our go-to spot was Gelateria Borgo Antico. Florence’s favourite was the Greek yoghurt ice with honey. Also, the granitas were divine. The owner of the gelateria has a bistro as well just around the corner. Go there for a nice dinner with the most a stunning view: Borgo Antico Bistrot. (Viviane’s favourite)

 For lunch, fresh pizza was a team favourite at Osteria Pizzeria Sant’Oronzo.

The city truly comes to life at aperitivo time, as the sun begins to set. Another memorable restaurant with typical Apulian cuisine we visited, was Taverna della Geliosa.

Ospitalità Italiana

But what stayed with us most were the people. Kind, open and completely unbothered by how different we must have looked; dressed in black, in flowing silhouettes, clearly outsiders.Still, we were met with nothing but warmth. They offered us directions, recommendations, even they would have let us stay in their homes. It was that unexpected generosity, against such a beautiful setting, that made this trip unforgettable. We left Ostuni with full hearts and the feeling we had been welcomed into their community.