ESCAPE TO VILLA IGIEA THIS WINTER: REVITALISE WITH WILD SWIMMING AND IMMERSIVE SICILIAN EXPERIENCES (Italy)
Since its opening in 2021, the renowned Villa Igiea, a Rocco Forte hotel in Palermo, Sicily, is excited to announce it will be open for the first time this winter, offering guests a serene, crowd-free haven. |
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ESCAPE TO VILLA IGIEA THIS WINTER: REVITALISE WITH WILD SWIMMING AND IMMERSIVE SICILIAN EXPERIENCES (Italy)
Since its opening in 2021, the renowned Villa Igiea, a Rocco Forte hotel in Palermo, Sicily, is excited to announce it will be open for the first time this winter, offering guests a serene, crowd-free haven. |
Category: Europe - Italy - Exclusive experiences
- What's new?
This is a press release selected by our editorial committee and published online for free on 2024-12-02
 Photo credit © Rocco Forte Hotels
Villa Igiea invites guests to experience the unparalleled beauty of Sicily’s landscapes, which provide a stunning backdrop for both relaxation and adventure.
One of the highlights of a stay at Villa Igiea this winter is the opportunity to partake in wild swimming—the practice of swimming in natural, unspoiled bodies of water like the crystal-clear seas surrounding Palermo. Wild swimming is known for its many physical and mental health benefits.
Immersing oneself in nature’s waters can boost circulation, improve immune function, and even reduce stress. The cool, invigorating water, combined with the beauty of Sicily’s untouched coastline, offers a refreshing experience that rejuvenates both body and mind.
Beyond wild swimming, guests can enjoy leisurely beach walks along the sandy shores of Mondello, just 15 minutes from the hotel, and visit the historic Liberty-style bathhouse for a local “aperitivo” before continuing the journey of wellness and relaxation.
Cultural explorers will find plenty to discover in Palermo. As part of an exclusive partnership with the Teatro Massimo, guests can enjoy behind-the-scenes access to the famed opera house. With the 2024/25 season showcasing productions like The Nutcracker, Othello, Faust, and The Elixir of Love, these special tours provide an intimate connection with Palermo's artistic legacy.
For those looking to dive deeper into Sicily’s treasures, excursions to Cefalù, a UNESCO World Heritage site, or to the stunning Riserva dello Zingaro Nature Reserve, provide the perfect combination of outdoor adventure and cultural discovery. Guests can explore ancient ruins at Selinunte, or join an olive oil tasting amongst century-old groves.
To round off a perfect winter escape, sea lovers can embark on a unique sailing experience, setting sail from Villa Igiea’s marina and discovering hidden coves along the northern coast, while enjoying fresh Sicilian cuisine on board.
This winter, indulge in the transformative experience of wild swimming in the crystal-clear waters of Sicily while discovering the island’s rich culture, serene landscapes, and warmth of its winter climate.
Book a winter escape with Forte Escapes and receive a 15% discount on room rates and exclusive benefits from the Rocco Forte Suite Experience, including a wellness gift set from the Irene Forte Skincare line, a warm winter cocktail, and daily breakfast for two.
Villa Igiea, Palermo
Situated in Palermo, Villa Igiea, a Rocco Forte hotel, commands a strategic position between Monte Pellegrino and the Gulf of Palermo. It offers a gateway to the city's cultural heritage while providing the comfort and convenience of urban living, all set against a backdrop of stunning landscapes, where land meets sea, offering all the beauty of the Mediterranean. The hotel's design draws inspiration from the city of Palermo and the rich history of the building. Led by Olga Polizzi, Deputy Chairman and Design Director, in collaboration with renowned architects Paolo Moschino and Philip Vergeylen, the conservation and creatively reconstruction of the Palermitan property was meticulously carried out. Today, Villa Igiea's historic walls hold 72 rooms and 28 spacious suites spread across the main building and the adjacent Palazzina Donna Franca, a private building that once served as the hotel's Liberty-style club, originally linked to the Villa through an old archway. Restaurants and bars at Villa Igiea include the Florio Restaurant, the Igiea Terrazza Bar and the Alicetta Pool Bar, under the supervision of Fulvio Pierangelini, Rocco Forte Hotels' Creative Food Director. Each narrates a culinary tale of Sicily: a cuisine of simplicity and honesty; always using local produce. The hotel’s cuisine embodies family, generosity, and elegance. In harmony with Pierangelini's culinary vision, Rocco Forte Hotels ‘maestro’ of Mixology Salvatore Calabrese, has designed an unforgettable cocktail list that embodies the heart and soul of Palermo.
 Photo credit © Rocco Forte Hotels
 Photo credit © Rocco Forte Hotels
 Photo credit © Rocco Forte Hotels
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