In a stunning clifftop location with direct access to its own beach, the ADLER Spa Resort SICILIA blends contemporary architecture with innovative sustainable design to melt into the landscape.
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Just opened in summer 2022, the ADLER Spa Resort SICILIA, sprawls across the unspoilt countryside of Southern Sicily, so well hidden that it’s impossible to spot until you’re close. It straddles a hillside, and the buildings are arranged in a series of terraces, surrounded by gardens and olive groves. Flat roofs are covered in grasses and the walls are volcanic rock, clad in natural timber. Linear water channels link the interior and exterior emphasising the sense of calm.
You’re encouraged to don your hooded gowns when you’re utilising the facilities, giving it an air of a medieval monastery. Yet here everything is bang up to date although sustainability is at the core of the resort. Many of the interiors have walls made from natural unbaked Sicilian clay which promotes natural humidity. Next to the hotel complex is the Torre Salsa Nature Reserve, a haven of biodiversity.
Who for
Singles, Couples and Families who want to get away from it all and chill out in complete comfort. Health and sustainability are at its core.
Accommodation
There are just two types of rooms, Junior and Family suites which all have terraces or balconies sea views. The only difference is that the Family suites have an extra space for the kids. Some are designed to offer barrier-free comfort to guests with reduced mobility.
We stayed in a spacious 55 square metre Junior Suite, with floor-to-ceiling windows, which opened out to the panoramic terrace outside. Solid wooden floors and clay walls with nice textures added to the sense of space. The walk-through bathroom had a large rain shower and there was a separate cubicle equipped with a toilet, bidet and wash basin.
Tea and Nespresso kits, mini-bar, Wi-Fi internet access and digital TV plus air-conditioning are all standard. The beds can be rigged German style with two duvets or Italian style with a single bedspread. Calm deep sleep is obligatory here.
Food and Drink
The resort’s signature restaurant is the Seaview Restaurant, with floor-to-ceiling glass windows, offering stunning views of the Mediterranean. It serves a variety of Sicilian cuisine, including fresh seafood, pasta, and meat dishes. Ingredients are sourced locally, many from the resort’s gardens.
Upstairs is a large bar area with live music in the evening and a wide range of cocktails and local wines. These include selections from their Sanoner biodynamic vineyards. For a more casual dining experience, at lunchtime, try Osteria. Sit on the terrace and enjoy a variety of pizzas, pastas, and salads.
Facilities
Pools
The indoor and outdoor Sole Pool offers a secluded, intimate atmosphere while affording an open view into the outdoors through its large floor-to-ceiling windows. Water is slightly saline and heated to a pleasant temperature in the colder months. Whirlpool stations provide an extra touch of uncompromising well-being. It’s an easy swim out to the outdoor infinity section with views of the Torre Salsa Nature Reserve and the sea.
The Dolce pool is situated right next to the Sole pool closer to the beach, and the freshwater is also heated. The gardens have comfortable loungers for a rejuvenating sunbath. Just nearby is the Semi-Olympic sports pool, 25m long, providing a quality training opportunity for swimmers. You can take Aqua Gym lessons here or just settle for an inspiring morning workout.
Perched on the hilltop overlooking the sea, facing the iconic white cliffs of Capobianco, is the Thalasso saltwater pool. From its warm waters enjoy the changing hues of the spectacular sunsets. If you fancy a dip in the sea, the beach is a 15 minute walk away and there’s also a complimentary electric buggy transfer.
Yoga and Fitness
Complimentary yoga classes are offered every morning in the island pavilion at the centre of the natural lake, but other locations may be chosen on special occasions. Sunset yoga lessons with international trainers are offered once or twice a week.
The fitness hall features the latest Technogym equipment and offers complimentary courses and private coaching sessions. The activity programme includes water sports like kayaking, canoeing and stand-up paddling. Also, try horse riding on the beach at dawn and sunset. Complimentary e-bikes are offered for exploring the surrounding area
Spa
The spa is located in its own building, and offers a variety of treatments, including massages, facials, and body wraps in its 13 sea-view rooms. They make use of oils, extracts and ingredients gathered on the property and from the nearby countryside. There’s also a sauna, steam room, and Jacuzzi.
How much
Room rates at ADLER Spa Resort SICILIA start from €270 half board in a Junior Suite.
What’s Nearby?
Next door is the Torre Salsa Nature Reserve, spread across more than 760 hectares of wetlands, dunes, chalk crags and unspoilt coastline. It’s home to threatened species such as sea turtles and porcupines as well as a variety of raptors, tortoises, green lizards and butterflies. An hour away is the UNESCO-listed Valley of the Temples, with Greek columns rising high in the Selinunte archaeological park.
VERDICT:
The ADLER Spa Resort Sicilia is the perfect place to relax and rejuvenate. The resort offers a variety of activities and amenities, so you can tailor your holiday to your needs. Whether you want to spend your days sunbathing on the beach, exploring the local area, or pampering yourself at the spa, there’s something for everyone here.
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