The Ultimate Sicilian summer retreat, in addition to its spectacular natural beauty, Verdura Resort offers its guests an irresistible assortment of seasonal activities. From exclusive fine dining events with celebrated international chefs to a children’s sports academy led by superstar athletes, Verdura has all the ingredients for an unforgettable summer.
In summer 2019, Verdura is delighted to offer a host of exceptional sports academies for its younger visitors. Budding football players can learn from the best courtesy of the Juventus Training Academy, which is available in both July and August. Teens and kids who love to dance will want to check out the Hip Hop Academy, led by celebrity dancer Alice Bellagamba (from 25th June-1st July), or for something a little more unusual, children can try their hand at fencing, taught by Verdura’s expert instructor Lia Vetrano.
While the kids are busy at the sports academies, adults will want to take advantage of De Rerum Natura, a series of incredible culinary experiences that are returning to Verdura in 2019. Masterminded by Fulvio Pierangelini, the event includes a collection of collaborative dinners between the celebrated chef and a series of other acclaimed chefs from around the world, all using simple local ingredients to create show-stopping dishes. Taking place since 2016, this year sees the anticipated return of Michelin star Scottish chef Tom Kitchin, who explains ‘“My passion for Sicily first began when I travelled there over ten years ago…I was introduced to the local food markets and was absolutely amazed by the wonderful produce, especially the fruit and vegetables. It’s truly a chef’s paradise.”
After an evening of exceptional fine dining, spend the next day soaking up the beauty of the Sicilian coastline aboard Verdura’s very own yacht. Sail on crystalline waters to Capo Bianco, a Sicilian cliff with ruins of a Greek amphitheatre atop, or travel to mesmerising Scala dei Turchi, famous for its stunning white rock formations.
To book your summer escape at Verdura, 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.
Preparations were in full swing at the North Pole - ribbons tied, sleigh bells polished, and lists checked twice - yet Father Christmas kindly agreed to pause his busy schedule for an interview. We met him at SCOTCH at The Balmoral, just as the famous clocktower struck 12:03 - it stands watch over Waverley Station, running three minutes fast, so no one ever misses a train. Settled into a deep armchair with a favourite dram in hand, he shared his most treasured places to pause, indulge and unwind across Europe every festive season.
