Before we dive into the details, could you briefly introduce yourself?

We are Corné and Ans Ooms, a Dutch couple and the proud owners of Il Trullo degli Zii and Trullo Zio Piccolo. After many years of traveling for business and living in the Far East with our two sons, we now call both the Netherlands and our beloved Puglia home.

We’d love to share more about you with our clients. Could you tell us a bit more about yourselves?

A few years ago, an unexpected turn in our lives made us realize that it was time to slow down and savor life more. We decided not to delay our dream of a home in Puglia, and now split our time between the Netherlands and Italy. Corné has a passion for cooking and always dreamed of producing his own olive oil and wine. Ans, who works in medical marketing and has a background as an ICU nurse, has a love for finding unique items at flea markets that add an authentic touch to our holiday homes.

When did this accommodation come into your lives, and what motivated you to make it such an important part of your journey?

Our love for Italy, especially for Puglia with its cuisine, beaches, climate, and culture, brought us here. On the countryside of the "white city" Ostuni, we found two beautiful trulli, which we transformed into vacation accommodations, surrounded by olive trees that provide us with delicious olive oil.

Could you share more about the renovation and decorating process of your accommodation?

In the fall of 2021, we began our search for a home and soon found our dream trullo. At the start of 2023, we added Trullo Zio Piccolo, located just 800 meters from Trullo degli Zii. “Zii” reflects our family name, Ooms, and represents our Dutch family connection in Italy.

What makes your accommodation truly special to you? Are there any memorable moments that make it particularly dear to you?

Our accommodations are authentic trulli that we have lovingly restored. We've preserved original details, like the wall niches in Trullo Zio Piccolo, which now hold small lights that create a cozy atmosphere. Staying in a trullo offers a unique experience that blends the nature and heritage of Puglia.

How would you describe the atmosphere and interior of your accommodation?

When decorating our homes, I aimed to preserve the charm and simplicity of the Pugliese style. The items I find at markets fit perfectly with the old trulli walls. These details give our holiday homes a warm ambiance, allowing our guests to experience the local culture firsthand.

Which part of your accommodation do you love the most, and why?

We adore the outdoor area with its veranda, outdoor kitchen, BBQ, and pizza oven. The long table is perfect for meals and gathering together. The gardens are filled with olive, fruit, and nut trees, and from the veranda, you step onto the sunny deck with a beautiful 13-meter pool.

What makes the location of your accommodation unique and special?

Our trulli are situated in the countryside, surrounded by olive groves and wildflowers. You wake up to views of rolling hills and the scent of the countryside, far from the hustle and bustle. Nearby in the Itria Valley, you can find charming villages like Alberobello and Ostuni, and both the Adriatic and Ionian coasts are within easy reach for beautiful beaches.

Are there any sustainable or environmentally friendly features in your accommodation that you’re proud of?

Our trulli are in a remote location and are not connected to mains water or gas. Water comes from an underground reservoir, and we use a solar boiler for hot water. The thick walls keep the interior cool during the summer. We ask our guests to separate waste and to be mindful of water usage.

What inspired or motivated you to share your property with guests?

We enjoy sharing our passion for the trulli and the Pugliese lifestyle with others. It’s fulfilling to let our guests experience the comfort and charm of this area, in a setting that offers peace and inspiration.

Can you provide a vivid description of the experience guests can expect during their stay at your accommodation?

Our trulli embody the traditional atmosphere of Puglia. The vaulted ceilings and stone niches give the feeling of stepping back in time. The interior is simple yet charming, with natural materials that perfectly suit the building style and landscape.

In what ways does your accommodation stand out from others? What unique features make it an unforgettable experience for guests?

Our trulli are nestled in nature, with views of olive groves and wildflowers. Here, you can experience the tranquility of rural life, yet still be close to charming villages and beaches. The central location in the Itria Valley makes it easy to explore the region, with day trips to cities like Ostuni and Lecce.

What is the nicest compliment you have received from a guest?

“Booking again for next year, without hesitation!”

What do you hope guests take away or remember most from their stay at your accommodation?

We hope our guests experience the ultimate holiday feeling in our trulli, filled with peace, space, and beautiful moments. We wish for them to return home with positive energy and inspiration, and to look forward to coming back to Puglia.

Do you have recommendations for guests to make the most of their holiday? Your valuable tips will be shared on your accommodation page!

In this region, a rental car is essential. We also offer the option to borrow our Fiat Scudo, which seats 9, with an all-inclusive rate and insurance. A taxi bus picks you up at the airport, and upon arrival at our accommodation, you receive the car keys. This saves waiting time at a rental company and ensures a worry-free holiday.