Warm, white-sand beaches lapped by clear, sparkling waters. Bustling towns with peaceful ports, pretty piazzas and vibrant markets. Ancient temples that echo with the long-forgotten rituals of civilisations past. A rumbling, snow-capped volcano that sits amid an otherworldly landscape. Sicily has it all and Verdura Resort is perfectly placed for exploration. To help you soak up every side of the island, we’ve curated some of the most exhilarating modes of transport with which to embark on Italian adventure.
By bicycle
Set out from Verdura by bicycle or be chauffeured to a starting point of your choice – our Concierge can recommend a number of possible routes to ensure the time you spend pedalling is as rewarding as possible. Should you wish it, a knowledgeable guide will lead you, or you may explore alone. With the sun on your face and a cool sea breeze urging you forwards, take in sites including Agrigento’s Valley of the Temples, Torre Salsa Nature Reserve and Ribera’s orange groves, all the while gliding along coastal roads and through towns immortalised in Ancient Greek and Roman myths.
By motorcycle
Accelerate your experience with a state-of-the-art motorcycle and enjoy incredible views as you travel along Sicily’s coastline and through its national parks – or take a day trip to a choice location. The island’s winding roads are famous among motorcyclists and it’s easy to see why: pull over anywhere with ease, navigate the narrow streets of ancient Byzantine, Arab and Norman towns, and reach remote attractions such as hilltop chapels and gorgeous viewing points without breaking a sweat.
By sports car
Slip behind the wheel of a gleaming Porsche 718 Boxster and test this sleek sports car’s capabilities on a sunny drive around Sicily. We can recommend a range of routes and destinations: the picturesque hill town of Erice, which was immortalised in TheAeneid; the city of Corleone and its ruined Saracen castle; Monte Pellegrino with its iconic motoring circuit; and Monreale, which is a Norman city set between two beautiful valleys that’s home to a UNESCO World Heritage Site cathedral.
By private yacht
Get a fresh perspective as you set sail from the nearby town of Sciacca with our professional skipper at the helm. Head down the coast to the Scala dei Turchi, the great limestone cliffs that resemble stairs, spotting the pristine coastline and sandy beaches of Torre Salsa Nature Reserve along the way. Alternatively, the three Egadi islands are just 10 nautical miles away, and home to stunning cave paintings, swimming coves and mountainous walking routes, all set within a National Marine Reserve. For an even more exotic excursion, venture to Pantelleria, known as the black pearl of the Mediterranean. This tiny, wild island between Sicily and Tunisia is a real confluence of Italian and Arab cultures, with excellent food and local wines. Travelling by boat means you’ll even be able to drop anchor and swim to Scarpetta di Cenerentola cave, only accessible from the sea, to enjoy the rippling reflections of the water on its rocky roof.
By helicopter
Of all its natural wonders, the island’s most imposing landmark is Europe’s tallest active volcano, Mount Etna. Its rumbling summit can be reached by car, but to appreciate the sheer scale of this legendary volcano, you should see it by helicopter. Our expert pilot will collect you from Verdura Resort for a scenic ride over glorious hills, valleys, orchards and olive groves on the way to the city of Catania at Mount Etna’s base. From there, led by an experienced guide, you’ll ascend the volcano via a hiking trail, taking in its sweeping ochre slopes dotted with craters, caves and striking rock formations, before being rewarded with a bird’s-eye view of your surrounds from the summit.
By private jet
For inimitable views over the entire island and beyond, let us arrange a private jet to and from Verdura Resort, in partnership with VistaJet. Each plane in this exclusive fleet is stylishly furnished to offer the utmost comfort, so you can sit back and appreciate Sicily from the sky with a glass of the finest wine in your hand.
To enjoy a long-awaited escape at Verdura Resort and enquire about personalised excursions, please email reservations.verdura@roccofortehotels.com.
Agrigento’s roots run as deep as the gnarled olive trees that dot its landscape, stretching back over 2,500 years to its founding as Akragas, one of the greatest cities of the ancient Greek world. Set against a breathtaking coastline, this once thriving cultural and political hub was praised by the Greek poet Pindar as “the most beautiful city of mortals”. Today, this splendour is immortalised in the Valley of the Temples.
In 1925, a world still shell-shocked from the ravages of World War I found renewal in a burgeoning artistic movement: Art Deco. It reflected motion, progress, the future. Immediately embraced by famed Belgian architect Victor Horta, he laid the foundations for Art Deco in Brussels with his plans for the Centre of Fine Arts (Bozar). This marked the inception of a radically modern approach to architecture and art in the city. Now, as Brussels marks a century of Art Deco style, it’s the perfect time to explore this distinctly walkable city with your own budding artists.
Along Italy’s dazzling southern coastline, two Rocco Forte Hotel retreats prepare to welcome spring’s arrival. Each destination, from Puglia’s rolling hills to the sugary shores of Sciacca, exudes charm and space to unwind while offering personalised onsite activities and local experiences.
