The Call of Spring: Italy’s Best Seasonal Destinations
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.
Masseria Torre Maizza: an authentic Puglian hideaway
On Italy’s heel, the sprawling Puglian landscape is peppered with quaint hilltop towns and villages watching over the Adriatic’s azure waters. Tucked away in the countryside, air thick with jasmine and the promise of Chef Fulvio Pierangelini’s burrata ravioli served in the whitewashed Carosello restaurant, Masseria Torre Maizza offers an authentic taste of southern Italy.
This sun-drenched 16th-century farmhouse, home to a nine-hole golf course, outdoor fitness centre, and private beach club, is a dreamy escape for those looking to breathe in some me-time. Creatives can try ceramic and painting workshops, hosted in collaboration with the Museo della Casa alla Fasanese, a beautifully preserved house museum in the historic centre of Fasano.
For a close-up of Puglia’s intriguing conical houses, visit Alberobello, a UNESCO World Heritage Site whose iconic trulli punctuate the fairytale-esque landscape. Further north, the clifftop town of Polignano a Mare - the Amalfi of Puglia- is loved for its panoramic views and fresh seafood.
As the sun makes its languid descent over the Adriatic, take a private cruise off the coast of Savelletri to marvel at the ancient stones of Monopoli Castle, or return to the masseria for some mindful movement, taking a yoga or pilates class in the ancient olive grove.
Verdura Resort: endless sun, sports, and serenity
Amid 230 hectares studded with silvery olive groves and citrus orchards, Verdura Resort has everything for a tailored escape. On the wishlist for every golf enthusiast, the resort’s Performance Centre leverages technology usually only available to World Tour professionals. Players of all abilities can benefit from state-of-the-art systems to analyse and perfect their swing before enjoying the two championship golf courses, alongside glittering Mediterranean views.
Those wishing for a deeply rejuvenating break can nourish mind, body, and soul at the flagship Irene Forte Spa, whose science-backed products are renowned as a Mediterranean diet for the skin. Staying close to nature, opt for a leisurely horseback ride through the rugged countryside or stargaze amidst the olives, guided by a local astrologer.
There’s also plenty for little ones and teenagers, with various activities from cookery to arts and crafts at Kids Club Verdùland. Meanwhile, at Academies With The Stars, sports stars in the making have exclusive access to coaching by internationally renowned athletes.
Verdura Resort’s expansive Private Villas are ideal for family and friends to spend quality time together this Easter, with unique experiences such as a fun egg hunt or a traditional Sicilian cooking class. The resort’s two kilometres of rugged coastline bring maritime adventures, including the chance to join local fishermen at work in Sciacca with a fresh feast at sea, or perhaps a dawn visit to the Valley of the Temples in Agrigento, Italy’s Capital of Culture 2025.
This season, escape with Rocco Forte Hotels to a more mindful pace on Italy’s southern shores - Verdura Resort reopens on 1 March, followed by Masseria Torre Maizza on 11 April.
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