Do you love Italy and everything about it - the food, the culture, the sights? In short 'La Dolce Vita'? Then you will adore Bogo Eganazia in Puglia - it's very special indeed. Luxurious, interior-designed, interesting spa programmes, outstanding service, an award-winning spa and great fitness options. Our Product Director, Helen, visited and gives us the inside track here:
What were your first impressions when you arrived?
How incredibly authentic and Puglian ‘olde worlde’ it looks, and yet it’s not at all – it’s a modern build. Plus, as I arrived at night, I was immediately struck by the dreamy creaminess of the interior, all stone and soft cushions and oh, those candles...
What do you think makes the hotel so special?
Aside from the stunning architecture and interior design (it feels like you’ve slipped into the pages of a Conde Nast Traveller magazine), it has to be the Vair Spa. Patrizia, the Spa Manager, oversees the team with a creative flair – it’s truly unique, focusing on the mind and the importance of letting go through spa treatments but also through local Puglian arts, such as dance and music.
What was your favourite treatment?
I loved the private Romanesque spa circuit, lit entirely by candles, as well as Patrizia’s insightful Psycho-aromatherapy session, harnessing the power of the scent to reveal the sub-conscious... a bit ‘out there’ for me but intriguing and novel all the same.
What was your favourite activity?
Taking part in a Puglian dance therapy session was pretty special – I felt awkward, far too British, then started to let go, laughed a lot and ended up feeling terrific and buzzing from the sheer weirdness and exhilaration of it all. Definitely worth experiencing and so unique!
How was the food?
As this is a luxury leisure hotel, much-loved by families during school holidays, there’s an assortment of cuisine on offer, from gourmet and indulgent options to mid-range fresh pizzas (after all, this is Italy...). However, if you wish to eat healthily you can; think Mediterranean flavours – fresh fish and lots of vegetables.
What was your favourite aspect of the hotel?
I like how it offers something for everyone – golfers are in their element, families can find space to relax, foodies won’t be disappointed and the Vair Spa is there to welcome those looking for an emotional release or rejuvenating break in a nurturing environment. Of course, I loved the stylish decor and also the proximity to some very pretty villages and, although the rocky outcrop by the sea isn’t a beach as such, the grassy area by the ‘beach’ club means there are plenty of sunbeds on hand for downtime. Heck, if it was special enough to be the wedding venue for a certain Mr Timberlake, then you know the service levels are also outstanding...
Who would you recommend the hotel to?
Independent solo travellers looking for a wellness break but happy with one’s own company, couples wanting a romantic or golfing break, families seeking Italian sunshine. Just go with an open mind and let the Vair Spa team work their Puglian magic...
For personalised advice, please call our expert wellness team on 020 3735 7555.
Why Wellbeing Escapes?
