One of the newest and most exciting resorts in Europe, Verdura is the latest addition to The Rocco Forte Collection. Here on the southern coast of Sicily on a vast estate a pleasure playground for all ages has grown out of the island’s red soil. Sicily is a place of treasures – all you have to do is look for them. There are amazing beaches, wild interiors, charming villages, historic towns such as Sciacca, the nearest one to Verdura and once a trading post, and beautiful archaeological finds such as the Temple of Concordia just a short drive away in Agrigento.

But then it is also an island full of surprises – delicious wines and olive oil; the most active volcano in all of Europe, Mount Etna; and now Verdura – a resort that seduces both grown-ups and children. With its two 18-hole championship golf courses and small 9-hole version, a host of tennis courts complete with pro’s, almost two kilometres of private coastline caressing the blue Mediterranean, a vast infinity edged swimming pool, running trails through magical lemon and olive groves, a state-of-the-art fitness centre and the best spa on the island.

Etna volcano, Sicily, Italy by andrea

The spa boasts with its four open-air Thalassotherapy pools, steam, sauna and a comprehensive list of treatments, many of which use local ingredients, as well as a selection of programmes for weight loss, detox and fitness. And then there is the children’s club with its own pool and full programme of events – it’s what we all need for a heavenly holiday.

Good enough to eat

Olive oil, lemons and blood oranges – no, not the resort’s salad dressing but the local olive oil blended with essence of lemon and orange, used in the spa for the signature treatment. Even the smell makes you feel great.

Rocco’s forte is to get it right. With limestone, terracotta and wood, it is design delight. Verdura’s warmth embraces parents and children alike in a concoction of sun, sea, sand, spa, golf and impeccable service.

Temples

Go to Agrigento’s UNESCO World Heritage site, better known as the Valley of the Temples. Organize a driver so you don’t get lost and head for the Temple of Concordia, it’s a real stunner. The secret is to go in the evening when you can experience the grandeur of this 2400 year-old building in the glow of a setting sun and out of the heat.

Valley of the Temples, Agrigento by Yudis Asnar

Chardonnay

Not a footballer’s wife, but what you should order from Planeta Winery. Alessio, Francesca and Santi Planeta have attracted worldwide attention in wine circles with their fine Segreta Bianco, Alastro and Cometa. Visit their 16th century country house for wine tastings amid the vineyards and ancient olive grove. Only established in 1995, but with the perfect climate they are producing a classic drop.

Best mates

At an altitude of 870m you will find the beautiful little village of Caltabellotta. The fresh air in mid-summer is a refreshing respite that complements the incredible view. Drop into M.A.T.E.S for the most delicious regional Sicilian cuisine made from the freshest local ingredients. It’s a museum dedicated to food and wine traditions too! Gastronomic.

Caltabellotta by Dan Bock

Local charm

A visit to Sciacca is a must to stroll the rambling streets of its ancient town centre. You’ll find artisans workshops, antiques, and lovely ceramics. Go In the late afternoon, and then stop by Bar Barbagiani for a Campari and orange and some appetisers. Located near the Palazzo Signorile, you’ll immediately recognise there is an elegant local crowd populating this stylish wine bar.

Sciacca by Eduardo M.

Jules is 23 and lives in Phoenix AZ USA. She is editor in chief of Foodsessed.com, a cool lifestyle blog.

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