Borgo Egnazia’s Vair Spa is inspired by Puglia’s nature and wellness traditions

Why go here?

The Vair Spa in Borgo Egnazia epitomizes the traditions and passions of the Apulian people. “Vair” means “true” in the region’s dialect and reflects the spa’s purpose: to help people find their true selves. The staff at Borgo Egnazia are “wellness artists” and as such the treatments are not conventional – you are more likely to find treatments that pay homage to the power of olive oil or the strength of the sea breeze. At Vair Spa, you will enjoy a fully personalized, intimate experience that goes far beyond well-being.

What is the vibration?

Located in the heart of Borgo Egnazia, a beautiful Puglia resort surrounded by centuries-old olive trees, Vair Spa welcomes you with hundreds of candles that stay lit day and night. The materials are raw and natural: stone, wood, huge lemons in the center of the tables, ceramics everywhere. (The nearby town of Fasano is known for its artisanal pottery.) The treatment cabins are minimalist but fully equipped, while the wet area is inspired by Roman baths, offering a particular kind of tranquility. The staff are attentive, attentive and very passionate about their work.

Photo: Courtesy of Borgo Egnazio

The story?

The idea of ​​Melpignano’s parents played a crucial role in establishing the region as a tourist destination in the 90s. Borgo Egnazia is the next chapter in this effort. The rooms and suites are so elegantly worn that the hotel feels like a place that has been around for decades, if not centuries. In fact, the resort was built from scratch in 2010 – as mentioned in a previous report Vogue review, architect Pino Brescia reportedly chiseled the new walls to give them a more authentically ancient patina—with the idea of ​​recreating a traditional small town in Puglia. The spa is definitely the beating heart of that city. And today it is directed by Aldo and Camilla Melpignano.

What should you try?

You can try “Affascenè”, which evokes the name of “affascino”, a traditional ritual similar to dispelling the Greek “evil eye”. When people praise you insincerely, it can ostensibly cast a kind of headache-inducing curse; Enter Puglia nonna, who knows how to remove it. A particular treatment is dedicated to this tradition, focusing on the head and face, using movements, aromatic oils and gestures inspired by “affascino” to relieve any tension in the head or shoulders. Another lovely treat is “fruscè”, which means “rustling” – or the sound olive trees make when they sway in the sea breeze. The treatment involves very delicate gestures, as if the wind were blowing on the skin.

How eco-friendly is it?

Vair Spa uses only local products and the ingredients are natural and simple. Even getting a manicure involves local natural products: a scrub with salt and lemon and then olive oil to moisturize.

Photo: Courtesy of Borgo Egnazia

What else do we need to know?

You can also book a full retreat called “Tarant”, which takes local tradition to a new level. According to Puglian custom, the best way to treat a tarantula bite is by invoking the entire community, who engage in dancing, singing and caring for whoever has been bitten to release the venom. Over four days, this journey of self-discovery involves personalized treatments and traditional dance workshops (no spiders required). The last treatment lasts an hour and a half lying on a mattress while a masseuse follows the rhythm of Puglian music to make you “dance” on the treatment bed, as if exorcising any “poison”. (An ancient interpretation of the modern stress epidemic?) It’s a profound and meaningful experience.

Who can go?

Anyone can visit Vair. I suggest booking the Tarant retreat with a friend. It’s the perfect experience to share with someone you care about.

Booking details for Vair Spa

Read more at from Vogue Global Spa Guide.