Close your eyes and conjure images of swaying olive trees and orange groves, ruffled by Sicily’s soft sea breeze. Though travel may be restricted for the time being, we can still dream of summer holidays on the scenic coast. We look forward to welcoming guests to Verdura Resort’s secluded haven of idyllic countryside and white-sand beaches from the 18th March, 2021. Until then, bring the magic of Verdura Resort’s 230 hectares of pristine coastline to you, with cultural recommendations from our expert sommelier Nando Papa and local concierge team.
The Leopard by Tomasi di Lampedusa
Recommended by Emanuele Venezia, Concierge
Cosy up by the fire and delve into Tomasi di Lampedusa’s wonderful tale The Leopard, regaling the life of the Salina family and the eccentric Sicilian prince Don Fabrizio and his decadent experiences during the Italian unification.
Sicilian wine tasting journey
Recommended by Nando Papa, Head Sommelier
The island’s sun-kissed coastline and welcoming climate offer up some fantastic local wines. Inspired by our Sicilian wine tasting journey, our head sommelier Nando Papa will accompany you on a "journey of the senses" at home. Begin with a glass of Nerello Mascalese, considered the Pinot Noir of southern Italy. Next, sip the sweet nectar-like texture of Malvasia delle Lipari. Finish with Nero d'Avola, an imposing and austere wine considered by gourmands to be "king of the island". Let these unusual wines speak to every emotion.
The Sicily Cookbook by Cettina Vicenzino
Recommended by Flavia Mazzarini, Head of Guest Relations
Sicilian cuisine is a triumph of flavours, enriched over centuries by a variety of culinary traditions. Hone your skills at home with Cettina Vicenzino’s sensational recipes, or dream ahead to summer and book an authentic culinary experience with our executive chef. Look forward to learning how to make some of Verdura’s most popular dishes using our garden-fresh produce.
Cinema Paradiso
Recommended by Flavia Mazzarini, Head of Guest Relations
Enjoy pure escapism with Salvatore Di Vita as he side-steps the struggles of daily life and instead immerses himself in the imaginary world of Cinema Paradiso, where he falls instantly in love with the world of film thanks to a welcoming projectionist, Alfredo.
Look forward to afternoons spent exploring Verdura Resort’s idyllic coastline and book your Easter escape by emailing reservations.verdura@roccofortehotels.com or calling +39 06 32 888 630.
Agrigento’s roots run as deep as the gnarled olive trees that dot its landscape, stretching back over 2,500 years to its founding as Akragas, one of the greatest cities of the ancient Greek world. Set against a breathtaking coastline, this once thriving cultural and political hub was praised by the Greek poet Pindar as “the most beautiful city of mortals”. Today, this splendour is immortalised in the Valley of the Temples.
Along Italy’s dazzling southern coastline, two Rocco Forte Hotel retreats prepare to welcome spring’s arrival. Each destination, from Puglia’s rolling hills to the sugary shores of Sciacca, exudes charm and space to unwind while offering personalised onsite activities and local experiences.
To visit Scotland without sampling its whisky is to miss out on a defining feature of its heritage. From historic distilleries to the contemporary innovators bringing fresh perspectives to the craft, for guests of The Balmoral, the city’s whisky scene is waiting to be explored. Here’s where to start…
