Upping the ante when it comes to luxury hotels in Sicily is the new Verdura, the first resort on the island by Rocco Forte.
Based on the south coast, an hour from Palermo, it’s certainly vast — with two championship golf courses, one of the largest spas in Europe and four restaurants. But it’s not the size that counts — the beauty is in the detail. Designed by architect Flavio Albanese, the buildings are minimalist and striking — all contemporary flat-roofed buildings painted black, ochre and terracotta. Inside, the rooms are softened by Olga Polizzi’s usual take on interiors — local artistry mixed with top-end luxe — rough-hewn walls, bold colours, local tiles and stone, wood and cane. Each room has its own sea view and private terraces. There are also lots of green touches — no cars allowed within the resort, recycled water and solar panels for electricity and hot water.
If the beach and olive groves don't do it for you (and I can't imagine how they couldn't), the spa, with its endless chill-out opportunites, will. Comprising a series of pavilions that open on to a light-filled courtyard, it has four thallasotherapy pools, a 20m lap pool, spa bar and beauty area — not to mention the choice of treatments. All inspired by the island, these include volcanic mud wraps, organic citric products, local oil. We loved the Sicilian massage, which uses local olive oil, oranges and lemons.
Mix all that with top service and local cuisine and we were smitten.
From March 1- March 31 2010, Verdura Golf & Spa Resort is offering a free upgrade to half board, a spa treatment for every three nights and unlimited golf. Families booking a stay will receive all of the above benefits, excluding spa treatments, and a 50 per cent discount on a second interconnecting room.
Verdura Golf & Spa Resort Contrada Verdura Sciacca, Sicily 92019, Italy (+39 (0)925 99 81 80; roccofortecollection.com)
