Published 28th Jun. 2021
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Set amidst a working vineyard producing Malvasia wine, Capofaro is arguably the best boutique hotel on Salina Island, ideal for tailor-made Italy trips.
There are 18 rooms, including five suites, housed in seven whitewashed cottages that are typical of the Aeolian style. Each has stunning views across the vineyard and to the sea, and overlooks the lighthouse of Faro, its namesake.
The restaurant views are also fantastic, and Panarea and Stromboli, the site of an active volcano, can both be seen on a clear day. Food is typically Sicilian and Aeolian, and is mostly al fresco in order to make the most of the views. The wine cellar, as expected from a vineyard, is full with delicious local wines.
The island's central position in the Aeolian archipelago makes it the perfect base for day trips to the six other Aeolian Islands, and the hotel itself is situated in between the villages of Malfa and Santa Marina.
Facilities at Capofaro include a swimming pool and a tennis court.
Why We Love It
September is wine time - head over to Capoforo to help with the harvesting.
Built by the Bambara-Pécaut family at the end of the 19th Century, Villa Belvedere is still owned by the same family today.
The family run Villa Belvedere is a traditional Sicilian villa that retains its original 19th Century charm, with discreet renovations over the years keeping it in line with the 21st Century. Although fairly simple, and not as swanky as some of its Sicilian neighbours, the rooms are simple and clean with fantastic views, many of which have private balconies.
The hotel is set amongst stunning gardens, which have shaded terraces looking out towards Mount Etna and the Bay of Naxos. There is a swimming pool which also shares these views, and an open air bar serving drinks and lunch. In the evening, there are plenty of local restaurants nearby serving delicious Sicilian cuisine, and we can recommend our favourites.
Located in the quietest part of Taormina, Villa Belvedere has the best of both worlds - a quiet and leafy position, whilst still being within walking distance of the sights of Taormina.
Why We Love It
Villa Belvedere first opened its doors to guests in 1902 and is still owned by the same family - So they definitely know what they are doing
Owned by the charismatic and incredibly welcoming Lucia Pascarelli, whose family have owned the property for generations, Donna Coraly is a supremely elegant boutique property immersed in the romantic Syracuse countryside of southern Sicily. With private gardens attached to each of the rooms, a large vegetable and botanical garden lovingly tended by Lucia herself, and an intimate restaurant that celebrates authentic Sicilian cuisine, this is a special place to stay.
The property has five suites with their own private gardens, plus seven bedrooms. From their names inspired by female figures throughout Sicilian history to their intimate, luxurious interiors, every detail of the rooms is thoughtful and romantic. The colour palette, drawing on the natural surroundings, is bright and colourful with white walls offset by blue, green and red accents, and every room is complemented by wonderfully bold artwork.
Enjoy authentic Sicilian cuisine in the cosy restaurant which is open throughout the day serving delicious food from breakfast and lunch through to dinner. With ingredients collected fresh from the garden and a menu that caters to any dietary requirements, the food is guaranteed to delight.
Along with the well-kept gardens and vegetable patch complete with Mediterranean herbs, there is a heated freshwater pool perfect for an afternoon dip, a small spa room and a meeting room which can convert to a TV room for children to enjoy some downtime with a good film.
Italy is a holiday hotspot (for good reason), so our help in navigating the crowds is invaluable. From snapping up hard-to-come-by Vatican tickets (at the quietest times of day) to organising an archaeologist to guide you around Pompeii, our consultants have the insider intel to make your trip unforgettable. Stuck on where to stay? Our vetted accommodation options range from family-run ‘trullis’ in Puglia to big-name hotels in Venice. So, whether you're an adventurous family or a couple on a romantic retreat, we can find the version of Italy to suit you.
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