There are few voices in the world of luxury hospitality that so seamlessly blend heritage, vision, and heart—and Andrea Filippi is undoubtedly one of them. With a career spanning some of the world’s most iconic names—Aman, Four Seasons, Belmond, and Park Hyatt—Andrea has forged a path guided by a fascination with culture, beauty, and authentic human connection.
Today, as Chief Commercial Officer of Egnazia Ospitalità Italiana, he leads a brand redefining Italian luxury through authenticity, emotion, and place. From the sun-drenched limestone villages of Puglia to the dramatic peaks of the Dolomites, and the turquoise serenity of Costa Smeralda, Egnazia properties are immersive reflections of their landscapes and heritage.
The Egnazia portfolio includes:
Borgo Egnazia, Puglia – The quintessential Puglian experience, crafted in local tufo stone, where culture, wellness, and authenticity converge.
Hotel de Len, Cortina d’Ampezzo – A sustainable alpine retreat combining wood-crafted design, wellbeing, and mountain charm.
Santavenere, Maratea – A seaside sanctuary offering expansive spaces, tailor-made experiences, and a profound sense of freedom.
Masseria Le Carrube, Ostuni – Rustic elegance surrounded by nature, lemon trees, and whitewashed courtyards.
Hotel Ancora, Cortina d’Ampezzo – A historic Dolomites landmark reimagined with timeless elegance, offering terraces, restaurants, and exclusive suites.
La Tiara di Cervo, Costa Smeralda – A panoramic hillside residence surrounded by protected natural parks, opening in 2025 for an exclusive preview.
Castel Badia, Val Pusteria – A thousand-year-old castle restored as a serene mountain retreat, blending heritage and contemporary comfort.
Hotel Diana – An elegant property offering refined accommodations and bespoke experiences. Scheduled for 2027 reopening.
A heartfelt thank you to 𝐀𝐧𝐝𝐫𝐞𝐚 𝐅𝐢𝐥𝐢𝐩𝐩𝐢 for taking the time from his busy schedule to share his insights and passion with us—and for helping our readers get to know more about his career and the Egnazia group in Italy.
Below, you’ll find the full, unedited conversation—part of In Conversation With, a series from Suite Sojourn spotlighting the hoteliers, entrepreneurs, and creative minds shaping the future of luxury travel. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or simply someone in search of true escape, I hope this inspires you to consider Italy for your next unforgettable journey—and if you’ve already explored the classic touristic attractions, I invite you to discover the hidden gems of Puglia, Sardinia and the Dolomites.
Suite Sojourn: Andrea, what initially drew you to the world of luxury hospitality—and how has your perspective evolved throughout your career?
Andrea Filippi: From a young age, I was fascinated by travel, intrigued by the idea of meeting people from different cultures, and drawn to beauty, aesthetics, and elegance. Connecting these passions, I realized early on that my professional path belonged in the world of luxury hospitality. I still remember being 15 and telling my parents about my decision — it caught them by surprise, as they had always imagined I would follow in my father’s footsteps and become a lawyer. That moment marked the beginning of a journey that continues to inspire me every day.
My perspective is constantly evolving, especially in today’s rapidly changing landscape. Each week, I reflect on what I’ve learned and how those insights can inspire my team to deliver even more innovative and memorable experiences for our guests.
Suite Sojourn: Looking back on your time at iconic brands like Aman, Four Seasons, Belmond, and Park Hyatt—what were some pivotal moments that shaped you as a leader?
Andrea Filippi: I treasure my past experiences, which have helped shape my professional skills. If I were to summarize the key milestones of my learning journey with major international brands, I would highlight the following.
With Costa Smeralda Hotels (in the golden years of the Aga Khan), I took my first steps into the world of sales and commercial strategy. There, I learned how to manage the sales operations of a fully comprehensive resort comprising several hotels, golf courses, a Yacht Club, pleasure boat rentals, and restaurants.
With the opening of Amanpuri, at Aman Resorts I learned the significance of offering an unparalleled level of privacy, providing exclusive service with extreme discretion.
At Four Seasons, I discovered the true importance of quality and, above all, of consistency in service. During those years, I also had the opportunity to immerse myself in the North American business culture.
With the opening of Park Hyatt Milan, I deepened my understanding of revenue management, pricing, and distribution techniques.
Belmond gave me a great deal, just as I, in turn, gave a great deal to Belmond. Being one of the key players in the 2014 rebranding from Orient-Express to Belmond—contributing to the launch of a brand that is now globally recognized—was a tremendous privilege for me.
More recently, following the LVMH acquisition, I had the chance to fully embrace the entrepreneurial spirit typical of the French group. From that experience, I sought to absorb a constant drive toward innovation.
Suite Sojourn: What inspired you to join Egnazia Ospitalità Italiana—and what excited you most about taking on this role at this stage in your career?
Andrea Filippi: I have known Borgo Egnazia since its construction, and I vividly remember my first visit, accompanied by Aldo Melpignano, with whom I have since developed a lasting friendship and mutual respect. Borgo Egnazia, along with the recent launch of Egnazia Ospitalità Italiana, is deeply rooted in values and principles that I fully identify with: the enhancement of local territories; an obsession for authenticity; a profound passion for what we do; the desire to enrich the lives of both our guests and our team of talented staff; a strong sense of family; and a commitment to preserve the art of hospitality “made in Italy”, with a focus on continuous improvement.
Suite Sojourn: You’ve worked across multiple continents and cultures. How have those global experiences influenced your approach to hospitality in Italy today?
Andrea Filippi: My global experiences have been instrumental in shaping my approach to hospitality in Italy. Having worked across multiple continents and immersed myself in diverse cultures, I’ve learned the importance of blending authenticity with innovation. Italy’s rich heritage and deep-rooted values are central to its hospitality, but I believe it’s equally crucial to embrace new perspectives and ideas to stay ahead in an ever-evolving industry.
What I’ve taken from my international experiences is a refined understanding of how to cater to different expectations and needs, while always staying true to the essence of what makes Italian hospitality so unique—its warmth, sense of family, and focus on creating genuine, memorable connections. By merging the global influences I’ve encountered with the deep cultural pride I have for Italy, we strive to create experiences that are both globally appealing and authentically Italian.
Suite Sojourn: Egnazia is deeply rooted in Italian heritage, yet forward-thinking in its vision. How would you describe the brand’s DNA in your own words?
Andrea Filippi: Egnazia’s DNA is a harmonious blend of tradition and innovation. At its core, it is deeply rooted in Italian heritage—celebrating the authenticity, craftsmanship, and timeless elegance that define this beautiful country. However, what sets Egnazia apart is its forward-thinking vision. The brand doesn’t simply preserve Italy’s rich cultural legacy; it reimagines it, always seeking new ways to enhance the guest experience while staying true to the essence of Italian hospitality.
The brand’s spirit is defined by a passion for excellence, a commitment to sustainability, and an unwavering focus on creating meaningful, immersive experiences. Egnazia embraces the future by merging cutting-edge hospitality with the warmth and charm of Italy, always striving to evolve while remaining grounded in the values that have made Italian hospitality so respected worldwide.
Suite Sojourn: In a previous interview, I’ve read that you’re aiming to grow to 20 properties in the next five years. What do you look for when considering new destinations, properties, or partnerships?
Andrea Filippi: When considering new destinations, properties, or partnerships, there are several key factors that drive our decisions. First and foremost, we look for locations that align with the core values of the brand—places that celebrate authenticity, have a strong sense of heritage, and offer an opportunity to create exceptional, immersive experiences for our guests.
We focus on regions that allow us to highlight the local culture, cuisine, and craftsmanship, creating environments where guests can experience something unique and deeply rooted in the destination.
Partnerships also play a crucial role. We seek partners who share our commitment to excellence, innovation, and long-term growth. Collaborating with people and brands who understand and respect the ethos of Egnazia allows us to bring our vision to life in ways that are both authentic and forward-thinking.
Suite Sojourn: How do you strike the balance between expanding the Egnazia portfolio and preserving authenticity at each individual location?
Andrea Filippi: Striking the balance between expanding the Egnazia portfolio and preserving authenticity is essential to maintaining the brand’s identity. Each new property is carefully chosen for its ability to reflect and celebrate the local culture, traditions, and heritage. Our expansion is deliberate, focusing on destinations that align with our values of quality, sustainability, and exceptional, personalized experiences for our guests. This selective approach ensures that every Egnazia property feels unique while adhering to our core philosophy.
Ultimately, our goal is to grow in a way that respects and enhances the communities and ecosystems we touch, ensuring that authenticity remains at the heart of the Egnazia experience.
Suite Sojourn: What does “Italian hospitality” mean to you today—and how is Egnazia evolving that concept for a new generation of travelers?
Andrea Filippi: Italian hospitality, to us, is rooted in warmth, genuine care, and a deep respect for tradition. It’s about making guests feel like part of the family, offering personalized service, and creating authentic, memorable experiences that connect them to the heart of Italy. At Egnazia, we’re evolving this concept by blending traditional Italian values with modern luxury, incorporating innovation and sustainability while staying true to the country’s rich cultural heritage. We aim to offer a refined yet approachable experience, with a focus on craftsmanship, local culture, and a tailored journey that resonates with the new generation of travelers, who seek both authenticity and contemporary comfort.
Suite Sojourn: How do you ensure each property tells the story of its region—from the architecture to the guest experience?
Andrea Filippi: We believe that each property should be a true reflection of its region, from the architecture to the smallest details of the guest experience. We work closely with local artisans, architects, and designers to incorporate regional materials, traditional craftsmanship, and the unique cultural elements of the area. This allows each property to feel deeply connected to its surroundings. Our goal is to create an immersive journey that connects guests with the local history, people, and traditions in a meaningful way.
Suite Sojourn: What do you believe truly sets Egnazia apart from other luxury hospitality groups in Italy and beyond?
Andrea Filippi: Egnazia stands apart from international super-luxury brands by embracing the essence of Italian hospitality—rooted in warmth, personal connections, and a celebration of local culture—rather than simply offering opulence. While international luxury brands often emphasize global consistency and high-end amenities, Egnazia focuses on creating intimate, authentic experiences that connect guests to the unique
Suite Sojourn: Wellness is becoming a central part of the travel experience. How is Egnazia redefining well-being beyond the traditional spa offering?
Andrea Filippi: We believe that well-being is defined by holistic experiences that go beyond the traditional spa offerings. We focus on integrating physical, mental, and emotional health into every aspect of the guest experience. This includes wellness programs that combine nutrition, mindfulness, fitness, and immersive nature activities, all designed to restore balance and enhance overall well-being.
Suite Sojourn: Guests today are seeking more than just beautiful spaces—they’re looking for connection. What kinds of immersive experiences are resonating most with your travelers?
Andrea Filippi: At each of our hotels, we have dedicated teams known as Local Advisers—true “connectors” who specialize in crafting personalized moments and extraordinary encounters. With their extensive networks and insider knowledge, they can arrange bespoke experiences, including behind-the-scenes access to local artisans, private explorations of hidden gems, and exclusive cultural experiences that are simply impossible to find elsewhere. Through their close-knit relationships within the community, our guests gain access to secret places and unforgettable moments, far off the beaten path. These unique encounters embody the essence of Egnazia’s signature nowhereelse, offering travelers a chance to experience the extraordinary in ways that only we can provide.
Suite Sojourn: We’re seeing a rise in shoulder-season travel. How are you adapting your offering to appeal to this growing demand?
Andrea Filippi: We’ve always embraced the charm of the shoulder seasons, recognizing them as the perfect time for a more intimate, serene experience. During these months, guests can enjoy the luxury of fewer crowds while still savoring all the unique offerings of our destination—whether it’s personalized wellness programs, exclusive cultural experiences, or special activities that are often only available in the off-season. Our teams are crafting bespoke events, from private cooking classes to intimate outdoor excursions and tailored programs for multi-generational families. Travelers who choose to visit Italy during the shoulder season not only experience its beauty without the peak-season rush, but they also enjoy significant savings, making it the perfect time for a truly memorable getaway.
Suite Sojourn: Many guests are staying longer and looking for deeper cultural engagement. How is that influencing how you design services and itineraries?
Andrea Filippi: Indeed, we’re seeing a growing trend, particularly among international guests, who are shifting from short stays in multiple destinations to longer stays in just one or two locations, allowing them to truly connect with the places they visit. To meet this demand, we’ve expanded our offerings to include bespoke itineraries that offer deeper, more meaningful experiences, giving our guests the opportunity to gain a richer understanding of the destination, ensuring their time with us is both memorable and transformative.
Suite Sojourn: Your new properties in Cortina d’Ampezzo and Brunico mark a move into the Dolomites. What can guests expect from these unique mountain retreats?
Andrea Filippi: Expanding into the Dolomites with our new properties Ancora Cortina in Cortina d’Ampezzo and Castel Badia in Brunico is a natural evolution for Egnazia, driven by our desire to offer guests an authentic alpine experience that reflects the same level of luxury, local immersion, and personalized service that we’re known for. The Dolomites, with their breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and year-round appeal, offer the perfect setting for a retreat that blends adventure with tranquility.
At our mountain retreats, guests can expect a unique mix of outdoor exploration—whether skiing in the winter, hiking in the summer, or simply enjoying the spectacular scenery—combined with the warmth and comfort of Egnazia’s signature hospitality. The properties are designed to complement the natural beauty of the mountains, offering bespoke experiences like private alpine excursions, regional culinary experiences, and wellness treatments inspired by the local environment. Our aim is to provide guests with a truly immersive stay, allowing them to connect deeply with the Dolomites in a way that is exclusive, serene, and unforgettable
Suite Sojourn: The restoration of Castel Badia sounds extraordinary—a castle and village reborn. What kind of experience(s) are you curating there?
Andrea Filippi: Castel Badia and its restoration is truly a remarkable and unique project, and we’re excited to bring this historic castle back to life in a way that honors its rich heritage while offering guests a truly exceptional experience, blending historical elements with a contemporary, chick and understated interior design.
At Castel Badia, guests can expect a welcoming retreat, a place where stillness restores and the pulse of the mountain renews. Here, wellbeing takes the shape of crisp air, healing herbs, familiar flavors reimagined, and a landscape that stretches endlessly outward, waiting to be lived in every way. Some guests will fill their days with alpine trails and high-altitude thrills. Others will let them drift with a sip of wine and a tale well told. Many will simply follow the silence of the woods. Whether they travel to taste, explore, or are moved by nature, Castel Badia will have options for every kind of mountain story.
Suite Sojourn: Hotel Santavenere in Maratea is often called a hidden gem. How do you plan to share its magic with a global audience—without compromising its authenticity?
Andrea Filippi: Hotel Santavenere in Maratea truly is a hidden gem, and we want to share its magic with a global audience while preserving the very essence that makes it so special. Maratea, often referred to as Italy’s best-kept secret, remains a peaceful retreat, untouched by the pressures of overtourism. Its serene beauty, with rugged cliffs, crystal-clear waters, and charming villages, offers a rare sense of tranquility that guests can’t easily find elsewhere.
At Santavenere, we’ve always prioritized an intimate experience, and with only 26 rooms, we can maintain the exclusivity and personal touch that makes this property stand out. To share this hidden treasure with a broader audience, we’re focused on maintaining its authenticity and low-key charm, offering personalized experiences that highlight the local culture and natural beauty of the area—whether it’s a private boat trip along the coast, guided hikes through the surrounding mountains, or a culinary journey through Maratea’s traditional flavors.
By carefully curating our messaging and offering a select number of bespoke experiences, we can introduce guests to this extraordinary destination without compromising its peaceful spirit. Santavenere will remain a haven of calm, an authentic retreat where guests can unwind and connect with nature, all while enjoying our distinctive bespoke service.
Suite Sojourn: Borgo Egnazia has become a destination in itself. How do you maintain its sense of intimacy and soul, even while hosting global events like the G7 Summit?
Andrea Filippi: Borgo Egnazia’s sense of intimacy and soul is at the heart of everything we do, and it’s something we’re deeply committed to preserving, even when hosting major global events like the G7 Summit. While these high-profile events bring international attention to the property, we work diligently to ensure that the essence of Borgo Egnazia remains untouched.
We carefully balance hosting special events like the G7 Summit or large destination weddings by reserving the entire resort for these occasions on select dates. This ensures that our individual guests can enjoy a completely peaceful experience during their stay. In essence, large-scale events are only hosted on a full buy-out basis, allowing us to maintain the intimate atmosphere and tranquility that Borgo Egnazia is known for.
Suite Sojourn: You’ve built and led global sales teams across continents. What kind of culture are you building now at Egnazia?
Andrea Filippi: We are focused on building a culture of excellence, collaboration, and deep-rooted authenticity. Having led global sales teams across continents, I’ve come to realize that success is driven not just by strategy, but by the people who make up the team. We’re fostering an environment where passion, innovation, and personalized service are at the core of everything we do. We want our teams to feel inspired by the place they work and the impact they can have, creating a sense of purpose that extends far beyond the everyday tasks.
Ultimately, it’s about creating a culture that’s as genuine and welcoming as the experiences we offer to our guests.
Suite Sojourn: How do you define commercial excellence today—especially in a market that values emotion, experience, and purpose as much as product?
Andrea Filippi: Commercial excellence today goes beyond simply selling a product; it’s about creating meaningful connections, delivering exceptional experiences, and aligning with the values that matter most to our guests. In a market where emotion, experience, and purpose play such a significant role, commercial excellence is defined by our ability to blend luxury with authenticity, and to offer moments that resonate deeply with people on a personal level.
In essence, it’s about creating value that goes beyond the transaction, building lasting relationships with guests who feel a genuine connection to what we offer. Commercial excellence for us is about delivering on the promises we make, while continuously evolving to meet the expectations of a more discerning, experience-driven consumer.
Suite Sojourn: Egnazia is about connection, not just transactions. How do you build meaningful relationships with travel advisors and partners around the world?
Andrea Filippi: When it comes to travel advisors and partners around the world, our approach is deeply rooted in collaboration and trust. We focus on understanding their needs, aligning with their values, and working together to create personalized experiences for their clients.
Our relationships are built on open communication, shared knowledge, and mutual respect. We regularly engage with our partners through exclusive events, bespoke familiarization trips, and personalized support, ensuring they have all the tools and insights needed to truly represent our unique offerings. We’re not just providing them with a product, but sharing the soul of what makes our properties so special.
By treating our travel advisors and partners as an extension of our own team, we ensure they feel valued and supported, and can, in turn, deliver a personalized and seamless experience for their clients. This collaborative approach helps us forge deeper connections and fosters long-term partnerships built on shared success and a genuine passion for creating unforgettable travel experiences.
Suite Sojourn: When hiring for your team or for properties, what qualities matter most—especially in a brand rooted in authenticity and human warmth?
Andrea Filippi: First and foremost, we look for individuals who are deeply connected to the idea of service—not as a task, but as a meaningful way of connecting with people. The ability to create authentic, personal relationships with guests is paramount.
We seek team members who are naturally empathetic and we value creativity and problem-solving. We want people who are proactive in anticipating guest needs, and who can think outside the box to offer personalized solutions. It’s about ensuring that every guest’s experience feels special and tailored to them.
Lastly, we hire for emotional intelligence—people who can bring positivity, resilience, and warmth to their work, even in high-pressure situations. We believe that creating a welcoming, human-centered environment starts with the people who make up our team.
Andrea Filippi: I see Egnazia continuing to evolve as a the Italian leader in the luxury travel space—one that is not only defined by its unique properties but also by a strong, purposeful identity that deepens over time. Our footprint may grow, but we will remain very intentional in how we expand, focusing on destinations that share our commitment to authenticity, sustainability, and cultural immersion.
In terms of purpose, I envision Egnazia being at the forefront of sustainable luxury, where environmental responsibility is seamlessly integrated into every aspect of the guest experience—from architecture to cuisine to wellness. Our purpose will continue to be centered around enriching lives through meaningful travel experiences, fostering deeper connections to the places and communities we operate in, and ensuring that every guest leaves with a greater sense of fulfillment, growth, and awareness.
Ultimately, we aim at being recognized as a company that centers on offering experiences designed to be personal, transformative, and reflective of a world that values connection and responsibility. It’s about evolving to meet the future, while staying true to the timeless values that have always set us apart.
Suite Sojourn: On a personal note—when you travel, what kind of experience do you seek out for yourself? Total disconnection, cultural depth, culinary exploration?
Andrea Filippi: When I travel, I seek out a mix of cultural depth and authentic local experiences—those that allow me to truly connect with the place and its people. I’m drawn to destinations that offer a sense of immersion, where I can experience the nuances of daily life and explore beyond the typical tourist sites. I love getting to know the history and traditions of a region, whether through conversations with locals, visits to lesser-known cultural spots, or simply being present in the environment. Culinary exploration is another big part of my travels. I believe that food is one of the most authentic ways to connect with a culture, so I always make it a point to try local dishes. As much as I value cultural and culinary experiences, I also look for moments of disconnection, where I can recharge and reset. In essence, I look for travel that feeds both my curiosity and my sense of balance, blending discovery with a sense of peace and personal growth. It’s all about finding experiences that leave me with a deeper understanding of the world and myself.
From the sun-drenched limestone lanes of Borgo Egnazia and the rustic elegance of Masseria Le Carrube, to the coastal serenity of Santavenere, Egnazia properties offer a symphony of experiences rooted in Italy’s beauty, culture, and tradition.
In the Dolomites, Hotel de Len and Hotel Ancora combine alpine majesty with thoughtful design and immersive local experiences, while Castel Badia offers a historic castle reborn as a serene mountain retreat. On the coast, La Tiara di Cervo presents panoramic views and exclusive privacy.
Each property tells a story—through architecture, local craftsmanship, cuisine, and curated experiences—allowing travelers to connect deeply with the landscape, the culture, and the people. Together, they form a portfolio that celebrates the essence of Italian hospitality, offering journeys that are luxurious, authentic, and truly nowherelse.
For those seeking to explore Italy beyond the familiar, Egnazia invites you to discover these hidden gems, where every stay is a carefully crafted experience and every moment leaves a lasting impression.
Images © Andrea, and respective hotels mentioned in the editorial.
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