SICILY

With the biggest concentration of UNESCO sites, Sicily is a magical island, an authentic cultural hotspot where nature’s energy is intensified. Having been conquered in its past by the Arabs, Normans and the Greeks, the island serves up a mixture of cultures and foods making it a unique and diverse travel experience; fascinating history, wonderful food and wine, world heritage sites and a Mediterranean climate makes this the place to go. Many also don’t know that Sicily offers up miles of heavenly pristine beaches, perfect for relaxing on after a morning of exploration.

We work with an expert on the ground who is dedicated to preserving Sicily’s unique culture, architecture, nature and cuisine. Curated experiences we can arrange include walking tours, culinary masterclasses with expert chefs, sampling wines at vineyards perched on the slopes of Mount Etna, discovering the island’s fascinating Norman history with local historians, nature guides and yacht charters.

Accommodation is varied here. The new hotels cropping up here over the last few years have ensured Sicily has become a talking point in the travel world; boutique hotels, private historical villas and charming B&B’s all can combine to make up a wonderful itinerary on this exciting Italian island.

CURRENT FAVES

MONACI DELLE TERRE NERE

This boutique hotel and wine retreat is set on the foothills of Mount Etna. A former 18th century monastery, the owners have injected life and love into their 40 acre estate, with a strong emphasis on the environment. This luxury eco-retreat uses local produce from their on-site farm and the surrounding area and there is no single-use plastic in your room (one of our pet peeves when hotels should be paving the way for sustainability). Even their activities provide low impact. With only 21 rooms and suites, you can spend the day in the gorgeous pool, arrange a wine tasting or pasta-making class or head to nearby Taormina for its beach, shopping and fantastic restaurants.


SEVEN ROOMS VILLADORATA

This charming hotel in the baroque town of Noto is the former residence of the illustrious Villadorata family, once one of the most noble families of ancient Noto. Staying in one of the grandiose bedrooms (there are, unsurprisingly, 7 of them), they boast private balconies that overlook the palace’s private courtyard and are up to 75sqm in size. A new addition is restaurant Manna, restoring the 18th century annex and stables to create an imposing vaulted room with huge stone walls. Their chef serves traditional Mediterranean dishes made from local ingredients of the highest quality. Here, you’ll really understand why some say the best food in Italy can be found in Sicily. Nearby, explore the finest Baroque architecture or while away the days on sheltered beaches – some of the best on the island.

SIKELIA LUXURY RETREAT HOTEL

The rugged 32-square-mile island of Pantelleria is set off the coast of Sicily between Africa and Europe. There are no beaches here. The volcanic terrain instead requires white-washed walls and tall palms as a reminder of your proximity to Tunisia. Indeed, Pantelleria is enchanting with its hot springs, volcanic landscapes and fantastic wine. It even happens to be Giorgio Armani’s favourite summer hideaway (he has a villa here). Find your own slice of paradise staying at unique hideaway Sikelia Luxury Retreat. With only 19 suites, there is plenty of space for you to unwind in the pool or spa. Alternatively, explore the hotel’s Wine Laboratory, book an all-natural spa safari or take out Sikelia’s boat to discover charming coves.