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A Village Reimagined
Borgo Egnazia surprised me in the best possible way. At first glance, it feels like a village that has stood for centuries, with its pale tufa stone buildings, winding alleys, and charming piazzas. But then you learn it’s not old at all—this “village” was brought to life in 2010.
I have to admit, I was skeptical when I first heard it was newly built. I’ve seen resorts attempt to mimic tradition and end up feeling staged, but Borgo Egnazia gets it right. It feels authentic, not like a theme park, and I think that’s down to Aldo Melpignano’s vision. His connection to Apulia is obvious, and you can tell this place is more than just a business—it’s a love letter to his homeland.
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Three Distinct Experiences in One Destination
The design of Borgo Egnazia is part of what makes it so memorable. Architect Pino Brescia has created something truly special here, and I found myself torn between which area I loved most.
- La Corte: The grand hotel entrance is sleek yet inviting, with a level of sophistication that impressed me from the start.
- Il Borgo: Wandering through the alleyways of this area, I felt like I was in a real Apulian village, complete with rustic charm and bursts of bougainvillea.
- Le Ville: This was my favorite. The private villas feel like an escape within an escape, and the luxury of having your own pool made it hard to venture out.
Every detail of the interiors felt carefully chosen. The muted colors—white, beige, cream—create a calm, serene atmosphere. But what stood out most were the local touches, like the woven textiles and artisanal ceramics. It’s luxury, yes, but it’s also grounded in Apulian craftsmanship, which I loved.
A Celebration of Apulian Flavors
As someone who lives for good food, the dining at Borgo Egnazia was a highlight for me. Every meal felt like an invitation to explore Apulian cuisine. I lost count of how many different olive oils I tasted, each one better than the last, and the fresh seafood dishes were unforgettable.
The chefs clearly take pride in showcasing local ingredients, and you can taste the care in every bite. Even the simpler dishes, like handmade orecchiette pasta, had a depth of flavor that stayed with me long after the meal was over.
Wellness Inspired by the Land
I wasn’t planning on spending much time at the spa, but I’m so glad I did. The treatments here are unlike anything I’ve experienced before. Instead of generic massages or facials, the spa draws on local traditions, using aromatic oils and healing plants from the region.
I opted for a treatment featuring olive oil, and it felt both indulgent and deeply restorative. It’s clear that Borgo Egnazia is committed to honoring its roots even in its wellness offerings, and that made the experience feel all the more special.
Beyond the Village
While I could have spent my entire stay within Borgo Egnazia, I did venture out to the private beaches and the golf course. The beaches were stunning, with crystal-clear water that felt like it was pulled straight from a postcard. And even though I’m not much of a golfer, I couldn’t resist trying the 18-hole course—it’s surrounded by olive trees, which made it as scenic as it was challenging.
Getting There
Borgo Egnazia is ideally located between Bari and Brindisi, making it easy to reach. The drive along the Apulian coast was gorgeous, and by the time I arrived, I already felt like I was on vacation. It’s about an hour from either Bari or Brindisi airport, so it’s close enough to be convenient but far enough to feel like a true escape.
Why It’s Worth the Visit
What struck me most about Borgo Egnazia was how deeply it reflects the essence of Apulia. From the taste of fresh olive oil to the scent of citrus in the air, every moment felt tied to the land and its traditions.
I loved spending mornings wandering through the piazza, afternoons soaking in the quiet of my villa, and evenings savoring dishes that celebrated the region’s flavors. Borgo Egnazia doesn’t rely on flashy gimmicks—it’s the understated elegance, thoughtful design, and genuine connection to its surroundings that make it unforgettable. For anyone who wants to experience Apulia’s heart and soul in comfort and style, this is a place that delivers in every way.