Meet Irene Forte, the wellness alchemist behind the acclaimed, eponymous skincare line described by experts as a ‘Mediterranean diet for the skin’. Her journey to beauty mastery unfolded amidst Sicily's sun-kissed landscapes at Verdura Resort where, inspired by the region's natural allure, Irene Forte Skincare was born.
Nestled amidst 230 hectares of Sicilian countryside, dotted with swaying palms and edged by stunning coastline, Verdura hosts the largest Irene Forte Spa, a 4000-square-metre wellbeing haven surrounded by orange groves and olive trees.
In 2024, Irene returns to Sicily for a limited series of exclusive three-night retreats, offering insights into the science behind Irene Forte Skincare where guests will indulge in signature treatments and otherworldly experiences, leaving mind and body utterly refreshed.
An unmistakably Sicilian escape
Visitors to Verdura Resort will not encounter the clinical whiteness of a typical spa setting; this sprawling retreat is as breathtaking, vibrant, and individual as the region that hosts it.
Every detail bears the imprint of the Mediterranean island, from the uplifting aroma of orange blossom to the gentle ringing of locally crafted bronze Burgio Bells that signal the beginning and end of a treatment. You’ll hear Sicilian music play softly throughout like a whisper from history, blending the exciting modernity of the spa’s treatments with cultural depth and tradition.
Such an intentional level of detail is important to Irene, whose profound connection with the people and culture of Italy has always been inseparable from her decision making for the brand. A picture of wellness, she is most at home against the flawless backdrop of Sicily’s South Coast.
Insider secrets of perfect skincare
Deeply invested in the innovation behind its high-performing products, Irene will lead a masterclass of tips and tricks that include favourite routines, application techniques, and personal insights into her award-winning product range – a curated line infused with ingredients harvested from Verdura's organic farm.
This year’s addition is the trailblazing Phytomelatonin Rejuvenating Serum – an extraordinary formulation of decades-long research by the brand’s Scientific Director Dr Francesca Ferri, who shares Irene’s vision of sustainable, ethically-sourced products that are radically advanced by science. Guests of the retreat will be among the first to try the newest products and will return home with goodie bags filled with gorgeous samples.
A haven of physical, spiritual, and emotional wellbeing
Retreat guests will enjoy a complete end-to-end wellness experience. With a focus on movement, nutrition, and skin health, each moment of your stay is woven together to promote sustainable rejuvenation, from your morning sun salutation in the resort’s verdant surroundings with celebrated teacher Anna de Pahlen, to the holistic benefits of time spent in the hotel’s stunning thalassotherapy pools, with its views of citrus and olive groves, pomegranates and prickly pears.
Those with an interest in the resort’s organic farm can indulge in a cooking lesson at La Casetta nell’Orto, a unique kitchen garden cottage designed by our Creative Director of Food Fulvio Pierangelini. After taking a leisurely stroll through the orchards, or sinking your toes into the pristine sands of the nearby beach, retreat to your elegant room, the ideal space to drift off after a day of decompressing.
Retreats run from 4th-7th April 2024, 27th-30th May 2024 and 3rd-6th October 2024.
You may also like
Step by Step, Our Walking City Guide
In an era where the pace of life seems to accelerate daily, the simple act of walking offers a grounding counterpoint. For families, it’s a way to explore without pressure - to notice what might otherwise be missed: a beautiful view over rooftops or the calm of a sun-dappled path.
Solo, Together: A New Way to Travel Europe with Kids
Travelling solo with children is a unique kind of adventure - one that blends joy, challenge, and meaningful connection. From choosing the right destination to finding moments of calm, every decision holds more weight when you’re the only adult in the room. At Rocco Forte Hotels, solo-parent travel is approached with care and an understanding of what families really need.
From Tintin to the Jungle, Exploring Family-Friendly Suites
From London’s storied streets to the comic-daubed corners of Brussels, Rocco Forte Hotels offers a collection of suites created with families in mind. Each space is deeply connected to its surroundings, seamlessly integrating custom furnishings, local materials, and subtle references to the culture beyond its walls.