Take in otherworldly landscapes and soaring views on a helicopter ride to discover the peak of Europe’s tallest active volcano. Overshadowing the ancient city of Catania, Mount Etna can be seen from most of Sicily, but its stark, rumbling summit remains a mystery to most. The ancient Greeks believed it to be the home of the Cyclops; for the Romans, it housed Vulcan, god of fire. Soar up to the top of this natural wonder as part of a three-night Exquisite Europe adventure at Verdura Resort and discover its myth and majesty for yourself.
Take up residence in one of our stylish villas, where a welcoming array of local delicacies awaits your arrival. A Sicilian Aroma Massage on the shore soon soothes away the effects of your journey, while, for a more lasting souvenir, esteemed local artist Michele Bono paints your portrait during your stay. Enjoy the fruits of the Mediterranean with an indulgent five-course seafood dinner on Amare’s terrace as the sun sets, each dish prepared before your eyes by a private chef and accompanied by carefully paired wine.
Aside from these highlights, the zenith is undoubtedly the volcano itself. A private pilot takes you for a scenic flight over vineyards, olive and citrus groves, and traditional villages as you head east over Sicily. Touching down on Etna’s dramatic pinnacle, you’ll be met by an experienced guide who will guide you through vast, lunar landscapes pocked with immense craters, spectacular caves and fascinating rock formations unlike any other on the planet. Remember to glance beyond these strange landscapes, too—stunning panoramic views over Sicily’s verdant countryside await.
To book your Exquisite Europe experience at Verdura Resort, please email reservations.verdura@roccofortehotels.com or call +39 06 32 888 630.
Vivacious, glamorous, powerful. Few figures encapsulate the effortless grandeur of the Belle Époque quite like Donna Franca, our Sicilian muse. Famed for her petite frame, thick dark hair and an exquisite fashion sense that has endured for over a century, Franca was the epitome of an era that placed beauty and high fashion at its forefront.
The festive season brings its own kind of sparkle - a flurry of celebrations, feasts, and time with those who matter most. To make gifting simple, we’ve curated a selection of bespoke experiences to delight everyone on your list. From candlelit dinners and Italian wine tastings to tranquil spa escapes and moments devoted to yourself, each experience thoughtfully crafted to offer moments of joy.
In a time when beauty shaped every facet of life — from the curve of a staircase to the vivid bloom of a painted iris — Italy’s Stile Liberty captured the optimism of a new century. Across Europe in the late 19th century, the Belle Époque blurred the line between art and the everyday, celebrating craftsmanship, elegance, and expressive freedom. Now, a new cultural itinerary, From Mucha to Florio, traces that movement between Hotel de la Ville in Rome and Villa Igiea in Palermo, two different cities, two glorious expressions of the same artistic impulse.
