Design Hotels and Fora Launch Bespoke Artisan Retreat in Puglia

Design Hotels has announced its first fully packaged retreat experience, a three-day immersion into Apulian artisan traditions, scheduled for May 22–25 at the 19th-century Palazzo Daniele in Gagliano del Capo, Puglia. This initiative marks a collaboration with travel agency Fora and creative partner Casa Lawa.

Olivia Palamountain of Globetrender reports that this venture represents Design Hotels' initial foray 'beyond the hotel stay itself' after three decades of championing independent, character-rich properties. Bookable exclusively through Fora advisors, the retreat is set within the intimate 15-room Palazzo Daniele, which features frescoed ceilings and original mosaic floors.

According to Olivia Palamountain, the programming for this bespoke retreat centers on culinary masterclasses. Attendees will learn to prepare pasta with heirloom grains and ancient Apulian techniques, alongside traditional methods for crafting ricotta and primosale cheese, guided by local Salento artisans. The experience aims to provide an in-depth engagement with regional traditions.

Ceara Sadler, senior director of brand and commercial, Americas, at Design Hotels, told Globetrender that the retreat is 'a natural extension' of the brand's work with its hotels and collaborators like Casa Lawa. Henley Vazquez, co-founder of Fora, notes that 'The future of luxury travel will be defined by incredible experiences,' adding that Palazzo Daniele offers an 'extraordinary setting for travellers to slow down, learn from local artisans, and experience Puglia in a way that simply isn't possible through traditional tourism.' Retreat packages begin at US$5,000 per person.

Our take: This move by Design Hotels signals a broader trend within the luxury hospitality sector. As discerning travelers increasingly seek immersive, experiential journeys over mere accommodation, hotel groups are pivoting to curate bespoke itineraries. The emphasis on slow wellness, artisan discovery, and deep cultural engagement, all within a curated architectural setting, aligns perfectly with the current demand for authentic, understated luxury. It underscores a shift from transactional stays to transformative experiences, leveraging local expertise and intimate guest numbers. Casa Lawa's involvement, with its chef-in-residence program, further highlights the move towards hyper-seasonal, locally derived culinary education.