A Serene Retreat at Borgo Egnazia

Arriving at Borgo Egnazia in Puglia, Italy, I was enchanted by its whitewashed stone buildings and olive groves, evoking a timeless village. This luxury resort, nestled along the Adriatic coast, is a haven of calm. My suite, with its creamy limestone walls and private terrace, felt like a Mediterranean dream. The scent of jasmine and the sound of cicadas lulled me into instant relaxation.

The resort’s offerings are pure indulgence. I swam in the Vair Spa’s candlelit pool, followed by a citrus-infused massage that melted my stress. Golfers will love the 18-hole San Domenico course, where I played a round with views of the sea. Cycling through olive groves to the nearby Cala Masciola beach, I lounged on powdery sands and swam in crystal waters. Evenings ended with aperitivos at the rooftop bar, watching the sunset paint the sky.

Dining was a highlight. At Due Camini, I savored handmade orecchiette with fresh octopus, paired with a crisp Puglian rosato. The resort’s weekly Puglian street food festival, with live tarantella music, brought local flavors like focaccia and burrata to life. Borgo Egnazia is where luxury meets authenticity, perfect for a soulful escape.

Borgo Egnazia’s Modern Legacy

Opened in 2010, Borgo Egnazia was crafted to resemble a traditional Puglian village, blending ancient Apulian architecture with modern elegance. Designed by Pino Brescia, it uses local tufa stone and draws inspiration from Puglia’s masserie (fortified farmhouses). It’s hosted high-profile events, like Justin Timberlake’s 2012 wedding, and is a favorite of celebrities seeking privacy. Wandering its lantern-lit paths, I felt the region’s rustic soul preserved in every detail.

Beyond the Resort: Puglia’s Delights

Puglia’s treasures surround Borgo Egnazia. The whitewashed town of Ostuni, 20 minutes away, dazzled with its hilltop cathedral and maze-like streets. Alberobello’s trulli—conical stone houses—are a UNESCO World Heritage Site, like stepping into a fairy tale. I explored Polignano a Mare’s cliffside beaches and savored seafood at Grotta Palazzese, a cave restaurant. The ancient ruins of Egnazia, nearby, offered a glimpse into Messapian history, while Fasano’s weekly market burst with local olive oil and ceramics.

When to Visit Borgo Egnazia

Spring (April to May) and autumn (September to October) offer pleasant weather (15-25°C) and fewer crowds, ideal for cycling and beach days. Summer (June to August) is warm (25-30°C) and lively, with peak resort activities, but book early. Winter (November to March) is quiet, with mild temps (10-15°C) and spa-focused stays. Reserve spa treatments and dining in advance, especially in summer, to secure your spot.

• Tip: Join a cooking class to learn Puglia’s pasta-making secrets.
• Don’t Miss: A sunset sail along the Adriatic for breathtaking coastal views.