Big on allure and short on crowds, explore Italy’s next big region by vintage car, a bicycle tour, and more, with EDEN Concierge, Sandy Lowther…


 

​Think of the Italian Coast and most people will conjure up images of Amalfi… but if you're seeking something a little more off-the-beaten-track and a little less encountered, then Puglia could be your idea of paradise. ​

 

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Fly into Bari or Brindisi in just under 3 hours, and you're a quick 50-minute transfer away from the sexy-yet-contemporary, distinctly Puglian Borgo Egnazia with its soaring, locally sourced tufo-stone walls and inviting rooftop terraces – whether you choose to hire a car (recommended for those wanting to explore the area) or take a private transfer (for those content to simply soak up Borgo life by the pool). 

Either way your options are endless. The vast village-style set-up and all kinds of spacious accommodation choices; abundance of activities; plethora of child-friendly and adult-only pools; a show-stealing spa; 18-hole seaside golf course; and two private beaches means families and couples cohabit in sweet harmony. In fact the way this place manages to be so inherently family-friendly and so intensely romantic all at the same time is a real feat of design genius. And while you never need leave, as an avid explorer, it was the locally inspired endeavours that really caught my imagination.

 

During my relatively short stay, I spent a wonderful hour cycling the area, along the coast road and through the countryside, stopping off at gorgeous poppy fields. And the distinctively olive-based scents of the countryside meant this was a great way to work up an appetite for lunch. 

Speaking of food, I also joined the hotel's cooking class – a really sociable event where Chef introduced us to the region's 'earth-to-plate' philosophy and taught us how to make a couple of types of pasta – one which we enjoyed post-class, served simply with basil and tomatoes – delicious; and one of Puglia's most popular dishes, classic orecchiette with turnip tops, anchovies, garlic and local olive oil – the most mouth-watering, yet super-simple pasta dish I've ever tasted (or should I say, devoured!).

Top Tips

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    ​My favourite trip though was to Alberobello, checking out the region’s iconic beehive-shaped trulli by classic vintage car. We zipped along the coastline, cruised up into the hills, and motored through unspoiled countryside, before heading for a tastebud-tingling tasting of wine, Italian meats and cheeses. ​

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    ​​I can't think of any other resort in Europe that's any more perfect to while away idle summer days… but this one is pretty great in autumn too: the sun warms the skin up to mid-October; temperatures are great for gentle hiking, biking, or exploring the enchanting medieval towns.​​

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     And it's prime time for foodies and oenophiles, with locals celebrating the region's natural bounties at the annual Festival of the Grape each September (this year hosted by Borgo Egnazia itself); and throughout olive-picking season, usually occurring between very late October to December. 

Find Out More

  • Borgo Egnazia Savelletri di Fasano, Puglia

    ​Emerging almost organically from the sun-blushed Apulian ground, this masterpiece of hospitality is an entire purpose-built village that's dedicated to spectacular holiday-making.

    Call us on 01244 567 000 to start planning your next holiday.

    View this property

 
7 nights from £1450 per couple. Price is based on two adults sharing a La Corte Bella, and includes breakfast, and round-trip economy class flights. Excludes transfers.​​

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