Cibus Travel: Italy Food & Wine Tour   

Under the clear blue Mediterranean sky, the Salentine peninsula reaches towards the east across the sea, it has witnessed centuries of history. Discover a fascinating and ancient land, both rich in history and art. Meet warm and friendly people who enjoy the simple pleasure of being together in company and giving genuine hospitality. Try the delicious local cookery and memorable local wines.

The landscape is beautiful and the colours intense: The rich dark green of the olive groves, the gold of wheat fields, emerald green tobacco cultivations, and the deep red of the soil contrast the pure cerulean sky and turquoise sea. Find rocky coves and long sandy beaches. Ancient watch-towers line the coast and patiently watch the horizon, a testimony to past invasions from the east.The architecture is spectacular , built from the local honey coloured stone that changes colour subtly with the light; from charming narrow little streets that have lost none of their charisma over the centuries to the unbelievably ornate and sculpted Baroque churches that are masterpieces.Visit the "Masserias" fortified farm houses that have protected both people and animals from unwelcome invaders for hundreds of years.

In the winding streets of the towns and cities you can still find little workshops that continue to work the stone, clay, metal and papier-maché as it has always been done - an expression of inspiration and passion for the land. The wine is superb. Recently it has been appreciated by international connoisseurs, while as always preserving its honest, genuine local reputation and popularity. The use of simple fresh locally produced ingredients cooked in loving and imaginative ways gives Salentine cookery a truly individual and mouth-watering quality. The sheer variety will spin the head of even the most experienced gourmet. The hundreds of year old olives  with their strange twisted trunks produce a superb olive oil, traditionally made, giving an exceptionally high quality and original taste. Listen to the hypnotic and contagious rhythm of a local folk dance - The Pizzica (spider bite) a magical mixture of legend and cult. Watch dancers spin as they try to escape the venom of the tarantula!