StyleNest visited the five star, luxury resort Verdura Golf & Spa Resort in Sicily. As we discovered, not only is it a resort for passionate golfers, but one which caters for and welcomes families with open arms.
Situated, on a less frequently visited coastal spot of Sicily, this large resort (230 hectares to be exact) seems to be somewhat of a well kept secret. Until now that is…
The hotel was born from Sir Rocco Forte’s personal love of golf, and his desire to create a unique, luxury golf resort in the Mediterranean. Having long wanted to build a five-star golfing experience and with the help of Californian golf architect Kyle Philips, the stunning Verdura Resort complete with two 18 hole courses was created.
However, with 1.8 km of private coastline, a 4000 sq metre spa, 3 swimming pools and four restaurants this resort offers far more than just golf. Whilst the hotel may have its roots in golfing, stunning scenery, fantastic cuisine, daily events for families and innovative beauty treatments, make Verdura a truly unique luxury resort, a place for all, not just golf enthusiasts to relax, recharge and unwind.
Contemporary Sicilian design runs through out the hotel. Sir Rocco Forte teamed up with his sister and designer, Olga Polizzi on the project and the result is modern and chic with a distinctly Sicilian feel. The resort’s signature pattern was inspired by a 19th century tile and is replicated in different colour tones throughout the hotel. It appears in the resort’s throws, lampshades and cushions, and in the walls and upholstery of one of the many restaurants.Adding colour and character to the minimalist architecture.
The name itself derives from the grand Verdura family, who once owned the land the resort is now situated upon. The last Duke of Verdura, famous for his beautiful jewellery design, was cousin to writer Giuseppe Tomasi di Lampedusa. His masterpiece, The Leopard, is in every bedroom.
Not only is the hotel steeped in history but is located between two of Sicily’s most impressive Greek temples, Agrigento and Selinunte. Well worth a visit should you be able to tear yourself away from the resort itself.
Also situated within the spa is Vita Health – where medical and preventative-health programmes are offered. Working with leading physician Dr Nyjon Eccles, the spa offers bespoke nutritional, non-invasive and anti-ageing programmes. Vita Health is located within the Verdura Spa and offers four individually-tailored programmes to focus on stress management, detoxification, weight loss and ageing. Each programme combines advanced natural therapies with a specific diet and exercise plan to improve current health issues and help prevent future health risks. The hotel’s culinary consultant, Fulvio Pierangelini also worked with nutritionist Amelia Freer to create a specific Vita Health menu.
Dining at Verdura is varied to suit all tastes. Buon Giorno is the casual main dining room where breakfast is served; La Zagara offers sophisticated international dining; Amare is the beachside fish restaurant (only open in summer) serving fresh Mediterranean favourites and barbecued seafood; and Liolà the pizzeria is a favourite with families and finally Verura which offers a colourful take on a traditional local trattoria.
Throughout the day the pool bar is the ideal spot for a refreshment for all the family. Come evening, head to La Granita, the luxurious and relaxing, yet also family friendly lounge bar which can be found on the same level as reception. During the summer months the Torre Bar is the place to head for an evening drink where you will also find entertainment provided by some of the local musicians. Also available at he clubhouse is a daily buffet serving fresh salads, sandwiches, soups and a delicious array of cakes and pastries.
Whether you are looking for elegant, romantic dining or a fun family friendly spot, Verdura caters for all. So much so that this family friendly hotel ensures every need is taken care of, from high chairs to menus, kid’s clubs to bikes with stabilisers, board games to Lego. The resort is also is home to a 9 hole course for juniors, tennis courts and a water sports centre which offers daily introductory classes.
It’s safe to say that little members of the family will never be short of activities to keep them entertainment.
The kid’s club is free of charge and will accept children aged 4-12. Open 10am-10pm the kid’s club allows parents to take some time out together to relax. A private baby sitting service is also available, allowing parents to dine at the adult only Zagara restaurant.
But rest assure, due to the resort’s size those travelling without kid’s will never be disturbed by the younger and livelier guests.
There are 203 rooms and suites many of which are interconnecting making them ideal for families or small groups. All rooms are decked out in a warm yet contemporary Sicilian style, with Caltagirone ceramic tiles burnt red and orange fusing the heritage of the site with the contemporary design of the resort. Some rooms have courtyards planted with orange trees whilst all rooms have private terraces or balconies overlooking the sea ensuring all guests, no matter which room they have all share the same Verdura experience.
Verdura is well-situated for day trips and outings and is a short ride away from the town of Sciacca – a picturesque fishing port. For the more adventurous you can take a deep sea fishing trip or boat trip to the Aeolian islands.
If you long for a little retail therapy during your stay then head to the Clubhouse where you will find three boutiques offering luxury fashion and linen, golf attire and accessories and gifts.
There is certainly no shortage of activities at Verdura. Whilst the resort is vast, you won’t feel overwhelmed as you can easily get around via golf buggies and bikes. Just remember to pack some flats!
StyleNest visited at the end of May when some of the restaurants, due to windy weather conditions were unable to open. Visit from July to October to experience optimum weather and all the facilities of the resort.
Need To Know:
Facilities: 2 outdoor swimming pools, 1 indoor swimming pool, kids club, bike hire, 3 golf courses, 4 restaurants, baby sitting services, spa, gym
Check–out – 11am, but flexible, subject to availability. Earliest check-in, 3pm.
For more details to book your stay visit Roccofortehotels.com