New Year, New Adventures – Exclusive Italian Retreats for 2024

As we look towards the New Year, it’s the perfect time to set new resolutions, to make new plans, and experience new things. From unearthing a world of organic wellbeing with Irene Forte at one of her private wellness retreats, to exploring authentic Italian cuisine in Palermo and Puglia with the ‘Godfather’ of Italian cooking, two-Michelin starred chef Fulvio Pierangelini, there's much to discover at one of our exclusive experiences in 2024.

Discover the Cuisine of the Gattopardo, Villa Igiea, Palermo

Spring 2024

Discover Palermo's rich blend of art and gastronomy with a four-night tour of the island's history through delectable cuisine and wines led by Chef Fulvio, our Creative Director of Food. The historic Villa Igiea, once the epicentre of Sicilian social life, provides an idyllic base from which to explore. Embark on a culinary journey as you wander through the vibrant Capo and Ballarò markets, sourcing the finest ingredients to craft a meal in the hotel kitchens before dining at Florio, the Belle Époque-inspired restaurant at Villa Igiea.

Learn how to blend your own wine at the Tasca d’Almerita vineyard, which has been in the same family for eight generations, and step back in time to the enchanting Villa Chiaramonte Bordonaro to revisit the recipes of noble families from the famed Gattopardo era. 

Irene Forte Wellness Retreat, Verdura Resort, Sicily

April/May/October 2024

Sink into serenity with an exclusive Irene Forte wellness retreat at Verdura Resort, a true wellbeing destination set on 230 hectares of olive groves and sunkissed Sicilian countryside. Inspired by her time in Sicily, Irene created Irene Forte Skincare and Verdura Resort is now home to an organic farm, from which many of the skincare brand’s ingredients are sourced, and the largest Irene Forte Spa, surrounded by palm trees and orange groves. 

Retreat guests will enjoy a restful three nights in a luxurious room, a skincare masterclass led by Irene, two luxuriant signature treatments, morning yoga and sunset sound healing sessions, and a tour of the estate’s beautiful orchards and gardens, along with a cooking lesson using fresh ingredients from the farm.

Puglia’s Golden Harvest, Masseria Torre Maizza, Puglia

Fall 2024

Embark on a four-night culinary adventure at Masseria Torre Maizza, where Puglia's natural bounty and slow travel charm sets the scene for a unique experience. The golden essence of olive oil takes centre stage set against the backdrop of trulli houses and fishing boats. Learn to draw inspiration from the landscape and discover the art of making local favourites such as focaccia, Apulian sushi, burrata and, of course, olive oil, under the attentive instruction of Chef Fulvio. 

This gastronomic exploration spans from sea to sun-drenched olive groves and vineyards, exploring Puglia's culinary delights. Linger over extended lunches and dinners, and let Fulvio guide you with his expertise, cooking both at the hotel and beyond. 

To book one of our incredible retreats, please email rfinsider@roccofortehotels.com