Alberi del Paradiso, Cefalu

Location

From Cefalu, move in from the hotel’s private beach to trace a small canal up past olive trees and orange groves to reach Alveri Del Paradiso, tucked away among lush Mediterranean gardens. To its west you’ll find the sunset-reddened cliffs and crystal-clear waters of the Santa Lucia promontory and, to its east, the Rocca Mountain. As the town’s icon, it rises above Cefalu’s 12th century Norman cathedral, looking out to the sea beyond. Be sure to head into town for one of Sicily’s finest beaches and its cobbled streets, lined with medieval architecture. Perhaps use it as a launchpad for a picturesque boat cruise.

Accommodation

Each of Alberi del Paradiso’s rooms mixes quintessentially Sicilian hospitality with contemporary style. All feature cherry wood furnishing, woven leather chairs and fine Egyptian cotton sheets as individual climate control, complimentary WiFi and satellite TV add in the more modern creature comforts. Upgrade from gardens views of palm, poplar and centuries-old carob trees to ocean vistas that look out to the intense azure of the Tyrrhenian Sea. For a special occasion, consider the suites where down pillows, Jacuzzis and marble detailing add touches of luxury to large living spaces.

Dining

This being Sicily, guests are treated to a full range of gastronomic delights from chef Roberto Bonvissuto’s refined menus. Mediterranean dishes make use of freshly caught fish, locally-sourced vegetables and organic produce to form a ‘slow food’ concept that comes perfectly complemented by an extensive wine menu. Choose from a cellar of over one hundred labels, selected from the very best Sicilian wineries. There’s also a range of international bubbles, dessert varietals and Marsala wines available. End your meal with a traditional Sicilian cake.

Facilities

If the hotel’s setting isn’t enough, its amenities are designed to help you fully unwind. Take a stroll through its watermill-fed gardens to reach a freshwater pool with sea views, a cardio-fitness centre, an artificial grass tennis court and a superb spa. Set in the 18th century stone building of one of the hotel’s historic watermills, it features saunas, steam baths and treatment rooms where massages are accompanied by the sweet scent of citrus trees and jasmine plants. Of course, it could be hard to tear yourself away from the hotel’s private beach.