Golf and More: Verdura Resort’s Charms Extend Beyond the Summer

Thanks to its scenic beauty and warm welcome, Sicily is perennially popular with summer tourists seeking seaside rest and relaxation – but, in recent decades, the island has built on its undeniable USPs (remarkable ancient relics, delicious food and wine and year-round warmth) to offer even more. Now, numerous music festivals, cultural and sporting events pepper the calendar, so it’s no wonder that an increasing number of people are choosing to holiday here once summer’s heat has faded.

On the south-western coast of Sicily, a stone's throw from the archaeological sites of Selinunte and Agrigento, Verdura Resort makes the perfect base to embrace all that the island has to offer. And besides its incredible setting, the hotel’s huge variety of sports and activities mean there’s something to do whatever the season.

A Taste of Sicily

Sicily’s essence is perhaps best captured through its cuisine – seasonal, sun-drenched, and deeply rooted in tradition. At Verdura Resort, food is more than sustenance; it’s a celebration of place. Under the guidance of Fulvio Pierangelini, the resort’s dining experiences reflect a farm-to-fork philosophy shaped by the landscape. Fresh ingredients – many from the resort’s own organic gardens – anchor menus that evolve with the seasons.

This season, a new energy flows through the resort’s culinary scene. New restaurants and refreshed spaces invite a more dynamic, sociable experience, from leisurely lunches at L’Osteria, inventive cocktails at Scirocco, or a starlit evening at Zagara, every instance becomes an exploration of Italy through its natural bounty.

Precious Family Time

The notion of family is central to Rocco Forte Hotels and Verdura Resort has been the perfect destination for children, parents and grandparents ever since it opened. Always with an eye on the environment and sustainability, Verdura has a vast range of activities and entertainment for guests of any age – one particular highlight being picking produce in Verdura's organic garden with our gardener. The more adventurous can opt for horse riding along the beach or a bike riding through Ancient Greek ruins.

A Golfing Paradise

With its dramatic coastal setting and world-class courses designed by Kyle Phillips, Verdura Resort has long been a favourite among golf enthusiasts. Now, following a major investment programme, the experience is more refined than ever.

Recent enhancements to the East and West Courses have elevated every detail – from fairways to greens to bunkers – all guided by Phillips’ original vision. A new irrigation system ensures both performance and sustainability, while GPS-enabled buggies and a redesigned Clubhouse overlooking the 18th green add comfort and style.

Training facilities have also been transformed. The indoor driving range and updated Golf Performance Institute now feature the latest analysis technologies, supporting everyone from beginners to pros in perfecting their game.

It’s this blend of championship-level play and soulful setting that has ensured Verdura Resort’s place amongst Italy’s best courses. Here, golf is more than a sport, this is golf as it should be: thoughtful, challenging, and impossibly scenic.