Sicily is “the key to everything”, or so wrote Johann Wolfgang von Goethe in his works, Italian Journey. Throughout history, the largest island in the Mediterranean has captivated travellers as a land of myth, natural beauty and ancient memory. Shaped by Greek colonies, Emirates of Crete, Roman Provinces, Norman Kingdoms and Spanish rule, Sicily holds the imprint of civilisations past. Woven into its landscapes, their presence remains with its buildings, ruins and along the pretty coastal paths that follow its shores.
A visit to Agrigento brings this history vividly to life. Perched along the island’s southwest coast, it is home to one of the Mediterranean’s most significant cultural sites; the UNESCO-listed Valley of the Temples. Here eight temples of sandstone and tuff rise proudly out of the ground with their golden-yellow glow. Surrounded by rolling hills of wild herbs and citrus groves, they are a testament to those that have walked this land before, a land that opens itself generously to visitors.
An island that avoids rush, la dolce far niente is at the forefront of everything Sicilian. From the wildflowers that pop up in Spring, to the quiet change in the landscapes from August to November, when its warm hues invite you to share the fresh oil and grapes it has harvested – Sicily moves to its own rhythm.
A haven for the senses, nestled along a secluded stretch of the island’s southwest coast, Verdura Resort breathes the scent of citrus and sea air. And set amidst its sprawling landscape you’ll find Rocco Forte Private Villas, a selection of sunlit properties available to own, to live in, to return to. Designed by Lady Olga, each is framed by sweeping sea views and infinity pools creating a quiet harmony, its architecture blending seamlessly with its surroundings. Olive groves, orange trees and beaches make up the resort’s 230 hectares, welcoming you and your family to start your own Sicilian journey, one where belonging comes naturally.
In Sicily, home begins with family, a sentiment captured in its cherished proverb La famiglia è la prima patria – the family is the first homeland. Rocco Forte Private Villas honour this heritage, offering a place that celebrates togetherness and memories, and one where new stories are yet to be written.
To belong to a Sicilian family is to be anchored to something older than yourself, and at the heart of this sits a sense of community. Discover Sicily through the eyes of a local, with U Canuscituri, Verdura Resort’s local insider, and deepen your sense of home as you listen to the stories of people that pride themselves on kinship and the simple beauty of living in the present moment.
From breaking bread together, to sharing new experiences, Rocco Forte Private Villas offer intergenerational sanctuaries with something for everyone, and owners will have full access to resort facilities. Secluded terraces overlook manicured championship golf courses, while an array of amenities, such as the Academies with the Stars for sporty youngsters, ensures the whole family is entertained. Explore Sicily’s finest vineyards with a wine tasting, or perhaps take a sustainable culinary journey and cooking class at La Cassetta nell’Orto, designed by Chef Fulvio Pierangelini, where you’ll harvest vegetables from the resort's own organic garden. Come together over a much-loved pastime, food.
From land or sea, the resort’s restaurants such as L’Osteria and Liolà encourage local connection through authentic, seasonal dishes. Fiercely proud of their heritage, Sicilian families are as deeply connected to their land as they are with one another, making Rocco Forte Private Villas a nourishing place to put down roots.
Find out more about the Rocco Forte Private Villas at Verdura Resort and explore how ownership brings you closer to the Sicilian way of life. Sign up to our dedicated newsletter to discover everything you need to know.
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