Welcome to Vogue’s second edition of the global spa guide—a curated list of the world’s 100 best spas, handpicked by our editors and trusted experts. With endless wellness options out there, whether you’re traveling across town or across the ocean, we’re here to help you find the perfect retreat. No matter where your journey takes you, consider this your trusted roadmap.
### Why Go Here?
Borgo Egnazia is one of Italy’s most remarkable hotels, with 184 suites and villas spread across a vast estate designed to mimic a traditional Puglian village—except with every modern luxury imaginable. Built just 16 years ago, the property offers an endless list of activities: cooking classes, fitness sessions, a private beach club, four restaurants, and lively festivals in the “village square.” Despite its size, the resort never feels crowded—even at full capacity—thanks to dedicated spaces like a kids’ club and pool. Need more convincing? Madonna and the Beckhams are regular guests.
Of course, no luxury resort is complete without an exceptional spa, and Vair Spa delivers. While the rest of Borgo Egnazia shines with sunlit limestone and bougainvillea-covered walls, the spa draws inspiration from the region’s ancient past. Hidden beneath the resort’s main building, its candlelit corridors lead to a sanctuary offering everything from classic massages (using local olive oil, lavender, and garden-grown herbs) to multi-day wellness programs designed to restore balance.
### What’s the Vibe?
Descending into the spa’s underground chambers feels like stepping into another world—a maze of dimly lit corridors where you might just lose your way (though the staff, dressed in flowing linen like Roman attendants, are always ready to guide you). In winter, fires crackle in alcoves, while in summer, water trickling down stone walls offers relief from Puglia’s heat.
Treatments take place in candlelit rooms, emphasizing tradition and natural ingredients. Many draw from local customs, like the heated stone massage inspired by the Masciara, a Puglian folk healer, or the Lòuma chiaine (“full moon”) ritual, which uses caper oil and almond butter to sharpen focus. The experience is so immersive you’ll emerge blinking into the sunlight, half-convinced it was all a dream.
### The History
Despite its timeless feel, Borgo Egnazia was founded just 15 years ago by Aldo and Camilla Melpignano. Aldo comes from a Puglian hospitality dynasty—his parents still run the nearby Masseria San Domenico—but this property is their modern masterpiece, blending heritage with contemporary luxury.
(Photo: Courtesy of Borgo Egnazia)The first wave of luxury tourists arrived in this area when the resort opened in the 1990s. The spa boutique, Bottega Egnazia, is curated by a Milanese gemologist—and if you haven’t already splurged at the spa, you’ll be tempted by its handmade ceramics, airy linen dresses, and locally crafted slippers.
What to Try
Any treatment that reflects Vair Spa’s strong connection to the region is worth experiencing. The Mìre body ritual—a grape-inspired scrub and massage—highlights resveratrol’s antioxidant benefits. But the real highlight is the Roman baths: an hour-long journey through beautifully candlelit rooms with pools at different temperatures (frigidarium, caldarium, tepidarium), just like ancient Roman spas. Enhance it with a mud mask or salt scrub, and bring a companion—it’s best shared.
Sustainability
The spa uses local, natural ingredients—even manicures feature lemon, salt, and olive oil.
Beyond the Spa
A top-tier fitness center includes cutting-edge equipment, tennis courts, and classes from Reformer Pilates to Puglian dance. Private yoga sessions with expert trainers can even help ease aches and pains.
Access
Hotel guests enjoy the sauna, Turkish bath, indoor pool, and gym. Treatments and Roman baths require booking (day packages via A Taste of Vair).
Booking
Address: Strada Comunale Egnazia, 72015 Savelletri di Fasano BR, Italy
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Explore more in Vogue’s Global Spa Guide.