...and a place to escape to Il San Corrado di Noto, A Relais & Chateaux member Noto, Sicily Discover an oasis in the Sicilian countryside at Il San Corrado di Noto close to the UNESCO heritage splendour of the Baroque town of Noto. Once home to Prince Nicolaci, it is now an idyllic, environmentally conscious resort. Olive, orange and almond trees create a timeless fresco that instantly inspires a sense of well-being, while the architectural style of the hotel is a celebration of Sicilian tradition, a decor masterfully sculpted by local woodworkers, exteriors paved with Modica stone and the green Guatemalan marble lining one of the many sublime pools. And if you need to spend time at the coast, the resort has an exclusive beach club close by. Therasia has an enviable position overlooking the sea stacks and other Aeolian Islands of the Tyrrhenian Sea. The hotel has been cleverly designed and built using locally sourced materials such as lava stone and cedar wood where possible, so it only adds to its unspoilt natural surroundings. The low-rise buildings feature arched picture windows that draw your eyes to each unique view, and the two infinity pools seemingly blend into the sea. The beautiful spa is an idyllic spot to retreat to following time out exploring Vulcano and the other islands, and you can even enjoy treatments exclusive to the region such as the Vulcano Black Sand Scrub. Therasia Resort Sea & Spa Vulcano, Aeolian Islands 47 Palazzo Artemide Ortigia, Syracuse, Sicily Set in the heart of Ortigia, the small island that forms the historic centre of Syracuse, Palazzo Artemide is perfectly positioned for a few days’ exploration of this cultural and historical destination. Dating back to the ancient Greeks, the entire city of Syracuse is today a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and home to a mind-blowing array of historic monuments. Housed in a beautiful pink 19th century building (a new build almost by local standards), Palazzo Artemide offers 40 elegantly furnished rooms and suites with high ceilings and Juliet balconies overlooking Piazza Minerva, Via Roma or the tranquil internal courtyard. The hotel’s outdoor terrace on Piazza Minerva is perfect for drinks and light meals combined with a spot of people watching, while the hotel’s Roma restaurant serves up Sicilian cuisine under a very impressive stone vaulted ceiling. TOWN & Country in the picturesque southeast of the island
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