• VIA #SHORTCAST SERIES
  • VIA Pocket Guides
  • Contact Us
0
The first all-English luxury travel & lifestyle magazine in Puglia
  • VIA #SHORTCAST SERIES
  • VIA Pocket Guides
  • Contact Us
The first all-English luxury travel & lifestyle magazine in Puglia
0
The first all-English luxury travel & lifestyle magazine in Puglia
Hospitality

Hospitality Feature: Upscale Hôtellerie on the Hill

VIA Magazine Editorial Team
No Comments
June 19, 2021
4 Mins read
296 Views
borgo-dei-lecci_cover-560x420

The hilltop town of Selva di Fasano, just minutes from the valley of the prestigious resorts, is home to a charming hideout for travelers seeking a bit of nature and privacy with the perks of luxury hospitality

In the midst of editing the 2021 edition and in the rush to complete the publication as the world begins to open up again and the doors of Puglia are polished to welcome visitors, I decided this would be the right moment to find a quiet space to work. Something led me to the hillside town of the Selva di Fasano, a renowned holiday destination among locals from Fasano who used to close their homes down the valley and head up to the hills for a summer of fresh air, lots of space, and Italian villa life – all in all, a 20-minute drive – perfect.

My eyes searched for a majestic gate and within minutes, there it was. Behind an elegant entrance stands a blue and orange-toned palazzo lit up just after sunset, surrounded by cypress trees and wildflowers. This must be the place, and it is called Il Borgo dei Lecci.

Upon arrival in the late afternoon, a young staff member helps me with my bag as we walk through perfectly manicured gardens and botanical plants stretching up from the ground to meet the afternoon sun. Checking in is a breeze, complete with the friendly smiles of the staff, led by a very experienced hospitality director, Emilio, who brings years of experience working with luxury hoteliers. To look around and see that most of the work was done under lockdown is astounding and illustrative of what we are capable of achieving regardless of external circumstances.

Room to Dream

The design is just right, elegant, and refined without overtaking the beauty of the surroundings and the character of each room. Each room has its own color theme with complimentary design accents from Apulian creatives. The lighting fixtures are particularly beautiful, adding the right moment to every environment and according to the room type. Textiles are exemplary, hand-made by local artisans, and bed linens promise a wonderful night’s sleep. In fact, I had a hard time deciding between pool time and bedtime; the combination of style, comfort, and silence was really tempting. In-room comforts include plush robes and fresh towels, toiletries, television, in-room WiFi, and a minibar. Travelers who are sensitive to light will appreciate the shutters that block out all light. Some of the rooms have an extra bed, including separate spaces, accommodating couples with one child (curated baby cots are available, too). Outside each room and suite is a patio with outdoor seating so you can bask in the sun, read a book, or enjoy an afternoon cocktail while the sunsets. Time simply stands still, and that’s a luxury as we slowly ease out of a challenging period.

Facilities include the swimming pool, hydromassage pool, and a semi-open-air Technogym – while it is essentially indoors, the full-size windows can be opened and overlook the beautiful gardens.

borgo-dei-lecci_kingdeluxe-scaled
borgo-dei-lecci_bedroom1-scaled
borgo-dei-lecci_junior-suite-scaled

Service Concept: Ask and Thy Shall Receive

The hotel offers all-day pool service, starting from breakfast in the courtyard (internal seating available) after which lunch by the pool is always a great idea. Menus are placed in the room to give you the chance to change your mind about other plans and just chill – not a bad idea when in holiday mode. On my first night, I opted to stay in-house and enjoy dinner in the open-air dining space. Decked with hanging tealights, dishware by the celebrated Franco Fasano, and ambient music,

I was immersed in Apulian cuisine that showcased regional products and local seafood with international accents, evident in the serving style, accompanying sauces, and delicate spices. Service is of high standing with English speaking staff, and well-trained waiters that are highly informed about wine and pairings. There is great complicity between the teams and you can feel it in the way they deliver, communicate and serve. In between courses, I have the chance to engage with fellow travelers and discover holiday-goers from The Netherlands and the U.K., and in moments we are all connected, thanks to the spacious yet intimate set-up. Breakfast offers just the right amount of everything you need, with specials made on request and with a smile. Fresh juices, coffee, croissants and pastries, marmalades and honey, fresh bread, and sliced fruit are nicely presented and served to guests.

Starting Point to Explore Puglia

From here you can explore the nearby towns of the Itria Valley such as Cisternino, Locorotondo, Ostuni, Martina Franca, Putignano, and much more. Since Il Borgo is located in the countryside, the drive is equally majestic so expect to stop for plenty of photos and take a moment to admire the peaceful expanse of land. By night, the Selva di Fasano has a pedestrian promenade with bars and cafes and is coming back to life after about 15 years of shadow mode, yet it’s easy to reach the coastal towns nearby (Savelletri, Torre Cane, Monopoli) for nightlife and explore historic villages all around.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Book Il Borgo dei Lecci

www.ilborgodeilecci.com

info@ilborgodeilecci.com

Use VIALECCI for extra perks and late check-out specials.

 

Total
1
Shares
Share 1
Tweet 0
Pin it 0
Share 0
'VIA
VIA Magazine Editorial Team
family-friendly hospitality Il Borgo dei Lecci Itria Valley luxury hotels new hotels Puglia Selva di Fasano swimming pool
Shares
Previous Post

Lords of the Trance: The Mystical World of Pizzica

Next Post

The 2021 Edition: On Demand

  • Stardom in Puglia: First Edition of ALLORA Fest
  • Retreat with Cara Mia May
  • The Apulian brand turning industrial waste into table decor
VIA Pocket Guides
You might also like
wedding-couple-560x420
Arts & Culture

Special Feature: The Traveling Minister

5 Mins read
June 11, 2020

VIA’s Editor-in-Chief meets with a woman of many domains, now a Traveling Minister of the Universal Life Church, too. All in the name of love. Some people like to officiate things in the most formal of ways: paperwork, signatures… While others prefer another route – more open-minded yet nonetheless binding. What was once a bohemian …

106490087_1074185709650487_5321523558613655907_o-560x420
Non categorizzato

Dining in Fasano – Top Picks

3 Mins read
July 10, 2020

What’s the story with this sleepy-looking town? Well, in the summer, locals pack up shop and the kids, and either head to the countryside (yes, 20 minutes up the road) or down to the coast (yep, 15 minutes away) to retreat in their summer homes. The town seems silent but in reality, every year more …

cover-photos-for-cuisine-1160x1160
Dine

Recipes from Puglia: Chef Guarini

1 Min read
December 8, 2020

VIA magazine cooks with the chefs of Puglia

A new villa collective comes to Puglia. Launched b A new villa collective comes to Puglia. Launched by EPOCA Collection, the portfolio comprises chic private villas set between the Adriatic Sea and olive groves and designed to meet the demand of experienced travelers looking for comfort, quotidian wellness, sustainability, and authenticity.

This charming property, Dimora Dei Semplici, is one of several villas managed by EPOCA Collection and has already been chosen by several VIP travelers who loved the intimacy, privacy, and Provencal-like feeling. The six-bedroom villa is privy to its own vegetable and aromatic herb garden from which you can pick fresh herbs and produce.
Stretching out from the fully-equipped kitchen is a spacious lounge with a fireplace, and outside are two outdoor swimming pools with a shaded outdoor patio - complete with a pizza oven and barbecue facilities. The in-house concierge team is at your service to help plan your days and ensure a smooth holiday experience.

#viamagazine #epocacollection #villacollective #summer2023 #wheretostayinpuglia #wellnessholidays #wellnessinpuglia
We came across this wonderful painting by Dire Str We came across this wonderful painting by Dire Straits' bass guitarist, John Illsley, titled Puglia II (2017). It's from a three series painting created during his time in Puglia, and perfectly depicts the landscape when flying above the land. 

This painting is available for sale at the Belgravia Gallery in London. 

https://www.artsy.net/artwork/john-illsley-puglia-ii

Learn more at: https://johnillsley.com/prints

#viamagazine #johnillsley #direstraits #musicart #landscapes #theviewfromhere
On such a beautiful and unconventionally warm wint On such a beautiful and unconventionally warm winter's day we ask, what about the trees?

Check out this moving video by @fondazione_sylva 

https://www.facebook.com/106121578329979/posts/476361951305938/?mibextid=1BnibGME8S4PAYXY
Where are Puglia's finest 'green lungs' and nature Where are Puglia's finest 'green lungs' and nature reserves? We've put together the Top 10 locations across Puglia, from Gargano to Salento. 

What will you find? Kid-friendly parks, leisurely walks, charming gardens, and challenging trekking routes for adventurous spirits.

VIA Magazine brings you Puglia in your pocket.

Get your copy now on via-magazine.com

#Viamagazine #viapuglia #viatravel #parksinpuglia #botanicalgardens #mothernature #awalkinthepark #naturelovers
Tune in to the latest episode from the VIA #shortc Tune in to the latest episode from the VIA #shortcast podcast series featuring Alex Loprieno, founder of WeShort. You'll love this interview on the future of cinema and film production in Puglia in particular. 

www.via-magazine.com

#viamagazine #viapuglia #viashortcast #podcast #peopleofpuglia #madeinitaly #pugliagram
Basket weavers, textile producers, and master tail Basket weavers, textile producers, and master tailors have worked in Puglia for centuries, if not more. Tireless workers, young trainees and women alike took to the looms, weaved under the trees in a shaded yard, or in the kitchen between meal preparations to create fishing nets, baskets, detailed embroidery, and linens for the home. 

Over time, Puglia became a hub for tailoring factories and while many of these have disappeared in the face of economic strife and competitive production costs the region’s craft making traditions are making a major comeback thanks to young entrepreneurial artisans and cooperatives that are empowering locals to uphold the ancient trade of ‘handmade in Puglia', sharing yet another facet of fine Italian craftsmanship with the world.

#viamagazine #apuliancrafts #craftsmanship #handmade #artisanwork #fruitoftheloom #madeinpuglia #ancienttrades
When you’re longing for fresh air and blissful s When you’re longing for fresh air and blissful swims in the salty sea minus the crowds, what better a plan than to rent a boat?

Here are some spots you won’t want to miss:
San Menaio
Punta Prosciutto

We’ve got our Top 3 highly recommended partners ready to help you; contact us and we’ll hook you up ;-)

#viamagazine #viatravel #keepitsimple #diningexperiences #seasidedining #wheretoeatinpuglia #apulianlifestyle #rusticelegance #seeksimplicity
Aren’t those vast, lush plains and shaded carpet Aren’t those vast, lush plains and shaded carpets under the olive trees tempting?

They are indeed great for meditating or engaging in some yoga stretches, but they’re also picnic-perfect scenes.

We suggest heading over to some fine delis and putting together a basket of your favorite cheeses, cold cuts, crisp breads from Alta Mura and anything else that will warm your soul.

Need some ideas? Of course, that’s why we’re here:
@spaccio_mortadellajazz , Conversano
Caseificio Zaccaria Deli , Fasano
@numeriprimi.srl , Brindisi (second location in Monopoli)
@la_bottega_del_corso_lecce , Lecce

You can also book a picnic experience at Giardini Pistola, one of our latest favorite finds.

#viamagazine #viatravel #viaexperiences #picnicinpuglia #picnicideas #apulianlifestyle #holidayinsalento #apuliandeli
Prepare to be charmed and enchanted by Palazzo Don Prepare to be charmed and enchanted by Palazzo Donna Elisabetta, one of the newest hospitality properties to open in Puglia. Of notable mention are the refined furniture pieces, plush bedding and textile, and eloquent wallpaper throughout the property that complement the palazzo’s historical features. You’re not only in one of Puglia’s “wine country” epicenters, but also close to the pristine, sandy beaches of Salento and beautiful towns that host summer festivals throughout July and August. Plus, there’s a spa in-house to give you a dose of well-being every day.

#viamagazine #palazzolife #donnaelisabetta #apulianvacation #wheretostayinpuglia #historicpalazzos #viatravelguide #salentohotesl #bestrecommendationsforpuglia #newopening #hotelsinpuglia
Apulian vineyards cover more than 85,000 hectares Apulian vineyards cover more than 85,000 hectares of land, the majority of which are cultivated in the hills and plains across the region.

Red and rosé wines make up for 65% of production, and 35% are white wines. You’ll find Fiano, Negroamaro, Primitivo, Malvasia, Verdeca varieties, and more.

Here are a couple of wineries to add to your itinerary:

@claudioquartawinery 
@terredisanvito 
@masserialiveli 
@menhirsalento
@scholasarmenti 
@ducacarloguarini 

#viamagazine #viatravel #apulainwine #wineriesinpuglia #vineyardvisit #winetastings #wineinpuglia #livelli #lucaguarini #menhir #claudioquarta #cantinasofpuglia #vinoinpuglia
Today, we’re sharing the story of a lesser known Today, we’re sharing the story of a lesser known town just minutes from the Baroque capital: Welcome to Monteroni di Lecce. 

It is believed that the name Monteroni comes from the Latin Mons Tyronum (Mount of the Spear-Men), the possible location of a Roman training camp. Archaeological findings suggest that Monteroni was also the location of a military stronghold, with coins of the Roman era found here. 

Frederick II granted fiefdom to the Montoroni family somewhere between the 14th and 15th centuries, there they built the first Baronial Palace in the shape of a small fortress - one of the biggest in the province of Lecce. 

You can visit it today, along with additional sites including the bell tower and two chapels, designed in the Leccese Baroque style. The town’s prestigious status is evident in the majestic villas peppered along the roads and recognized by the Italian Botanical Heritage association.

You can also visit: Villa Carelli Palombi, Casina Andretta, Villa de Giorgi, and Villa Grassi. 

Book a guide to explore these architectural marvels
“I really wish that young people could stay and “I really wish that young people could stay and not leave… the future of our land is always connected to the young vision…”

The beautiful Chiara Tommasino of Masseria Potenti talks to VIA Magazine about being a young entrepreneur in Puglia, what it take to build a successful business, and how she envisions the future of this region.

Tune in now to VIA Magazine’s #shortcast interviews.

Link in bio!

#viamagazine #viashortcast #podcast #peopleofpuglia  #pugliapodcast #entrepreneursinpuglia #viapuglia #masseriapotenti #summerlistening #explorepuglia
If you’re looking for a break from sightseeing a If you’re looking for a break from sightseeing and the beaches, may we suggest a meditative ceramic workshop?
HIt the ‘pause’ button on smartphone texting and experiment with new materials, textures and colors to ignite your creativity, intuition and connect back to the simple things in life.

Connect to life in Puglia.
❤
Plus, it’s a great activity for adults and kids, too.

If you love antique ceramics, add the Ceramics Museum in Grottaglie to your itinerary (Castello Episcopio).

#viamagazine #viapuglia #culturalactivities #ceramicsclass #potteryinpuglia #summerworkshops #artisansinpuglia #apuliandesign #apulianlifestyle #madeinpuglia
Hello Baglioni, lovely to have you here among us i Hello Baglioni, lovely to have you here among us in Puglia. 

Masseria Muzza is the latest addition to the Italian hotel collection, a sublime summer hideout steps from the sandy beaches of southern Salento and surrounded by pristine nature reserves that can be explored on foot or bicycle.

Since you’d be at the southern tip of the peninsula, we recommend at least five days to rest, recharge and explore.

#viamagazine #masseriamuzza #masserialife #baglionihotels #apulianvacation #wheretostayinpuglia #charminghotels #viatravelguide #bestrecommendationsinpuglia
Have you got all your bases covered on must-see pl Have you got all your bases covered on must-see places in Puglia?

Here are 5 old towns to add to your Apulian itinerary, recommended by us at VIA Magazine:

Barletta
Mesagne
Parabita
Matino
Corigliano d’Otranto

Learn more about these charming towns at via-magazine.com.

All of these are best visited in the early mornings (especially during Market Day), or early evening with the sunset when you can extend your stay to enjoy a pre-dinner aperitif and appreciate the small town buzz.

#viamagazine #pugliatravel #historictowns #salento #ostuni #apulianholiday #holidayinpuglia #whattoseeinpuglia #offthebeatentrack
La Cialledda, also known locally as ‘Acquasale’, is a very traditional dish in Puglia and Basilicata that uses ‘yesterday’s bread’ or crumbled friselle, softened by the juices of fresh tomatoes and cucumbers, sprinkled with olive oil and topped with red onions and fresh basil.

It’s fresh, crunchy and delicious in its simplicity.

Reminds us of the Lebanese ‘Fattoush’, doesn’t it?

Foto by @laregaladeipiatti

#viamagazine #puglia #apulianrecipes #traditionalfood #italianfood #viacuisine #lacialledda #italianfattoush #foodexperiences
One of the highlights of a holiday in Puglia? You One of the highlights of a holiday in Puglia? You can keep it as simple as possible, and the experience will still be exceptional..

Like this table on the Ionian coast of Salento, just in time for sunset... or this charming set-up on the shores south of Taranto.. or a rustic table for two up in beautiful Gargano. The choices are all down to you. ❤

#viamagazine #viatravel #keepitsimple #diningexperiences #seasidedining #wheretoeatinpuglia #apulianlifestyle #rusticelegance #seeksimplicity #barefootdinners #pugliagram
We want to treat you to something extra special wh We want to treat you to something extra special while you're on holiday here in Puglia. 
👆
Check out our story now!

#viamagazine #viapuglia #viatravelguide #shortfilm #filmlover #travelfilms #weshort #madeinpuglia
Looking for a private villa rental in Puglia? We Looking for a private villa rental in Puglia?

We recommend Villa La Torre Bianca, spank in the middle of Gagliano del Capo. 

Designed by owner Lorenzo Grifantini, the villa is utterly charming, spacious, functional and family-friendly. Equally helpful is its close proximity to the sandy beaches on the Ionian Coast, port towns that make perfect spots for dinner, and a host of villages with shops that can be enjoyed after sunset.

Contact us for more recommendations across the region, we'll connect you to the most beautiful spots and hospitable owners. 

#viamagazine #viatravel #viavillas #familytravel #privatevillainpuglia #salentoholiday #holidaywithkids  #familyfriendlyhouses
Wondering what to take back home to encapsulate yo Wondering what to take back home to encapsulate your Apulian experience?

Explore our Editor’s Picks for home textile and decor that will add a southern Mediterranean touch to your home and work spaces.

Best of all, it’s all “Made in Puglia” using locally-sourced materials.

Our Insta Guide is updated monthly, so check it out and let us know what your favorite finds are.

#viamagazine #homedecor #editorspicks #viaeditorial #madeinpuglia #apulianfashion #textilefinds #giftsfrompuglia #memoriesinitaly
Follow on Instagram
All rights reserved. VIA Magazine © 2022.
The first all-English luxury travel & lifestyle magazine in Puglia
  • Cookie Policy
  • Privacy Policy
The first all-English luxury travel & lifestyle magazine in Puglia
  • THE #SHORTCAST
  • Digital Travel Guides
  • Culinary
    • Dine
    • Wine & Spirits
  • Lifestyle
    • Health & Wellness
    • Style
    • Architecture
    • Arts & Culture
    • Design
    • People of Puglia
  • Traveler
    • Hospitality
    • Experiences
  • About VIA Magazine

Archives

  • December 2022
  • July 2022
  • June 2022
  • May 2022
  • April 2022
  • February 2022
  • December 2021
  • October 2021
  • September 2021
  • August 2021
  • July 2021
  • June 2021
  • May 2021
  • April 2021
  • February 2021
  • January 2021
  • December 2020
  • November 2020
  • October 2020
  • September 2020
  • August 2020
  • July 2020
  • June 2020
  • May 2020
  • April 2020
  • December 2019
  • October 2019
  • September 2019
  • August 2019
  • June 2019
  • May 2019

Categories

  • Architecture
  • Arts & Culture
  • Design
  • Dine
  • Experiences
  • Health & Wellness
  • Hospitality
  • New! Italiano
  • Non categorizzato
  • People of Puglia
  • Style
  • Traveler
  • Wine & Spirits
0
Our site uses cookies. Learn more about our use of cookies: cookie policy
I accept use of cookies