The allure of the Mediterranean is timeless, a region where even November seems reluctant to embrace winter. In Sicily the sun hangs low, gilding Palermo in golden light and inviting you to linger just a little longer: arriving at Villa Igiea, a Rocco Forte Hotel, feels like stepping into another era, where elegance reigns and the gentle lap of the Tyrrhenian Sea sets the tone for your stay: the historic Art Nouveau villa, perched on Palermo’s waterfront, welcomes guests with an understated opulence that mirrors the city’s layered history – a tapestry woven with threads of Arabic, Norman, and Baroque influences.
Palermo, on this particular weekend is unusually warm, offering the kind of weather that persuades even the most hurried traveler to slow down – the city is alive with its characteristic contrasts: the chaos of Vucciria market, where vendors call out amidst a kaleidoscope of fresh produce and seafood, contrasts with the serene beauty of the Palatine Chapel, its Byzantine mosaics glowing in the soft light. Wandering through the streets, there’s a sense of discovery at every turn – whether it’s a forgotten corner of the Kalsa district or the grandeur of Teatro Massimo. A visit here isn’t just sightseeing; it’s an immersion into a living, breathing museum.
At Villa Igiea, this narrative of discovery continues. Originally a private villa, the property was transformed into a hotel in the early 20th century and lovingly restored under the watchful eye of Olga Polizzi, Rocco Forte’s Director of Design. Her approach is unmistakably rooted in local identity, drawing inspiration from Sicily’s rich cultural heritage while infusing modern touches. High-ceilinged rooms with vintage-inspired furnishings open onto terraces that frame the sea, while intricate ceramic tiles nod to the island’s artisanal traditions. The gardens, lush and fragrant with Mediterranean flora, feel like an extension of Palermo’s spirit – a perfect spot to sip a Negroni before dinner.
Dining at Villa Igiea is an experience in itself: Florio Restaurant, named after the family that once owned the villa, offers a refined take on Sicilian cuisine – from the simplest spaghetti with sea urchin to more intricate dishes featuring locally sourced swordfish, each bite carries the unmistakable taste of the island. By contrast, the Igiea Terrazza Bar offers a more relaxed vibe, where you can linger over an aperitivo as the sun sets, painting the sky in hues of amber and lavender.
Leaving Palermo is bittersweet, but the journey to Rome offers a shift in tempo, trading the languid charm of Sicily for the eternal vibrancy of Italy’s capital. Here, amidst the city’s grandeur, lies Hotel de Russie, another Rocco Forte gem: tucked between Piazza del Popolo and the Spanish Steps, this urban oasis is a world away from the bustling streets outside. Its design, too, bears Olga Polizzi’s signature – elegance infused with a sense of place; the interiors combine contemporary luxury with subtle nods to Rome’s classical heritage: muted tones and plush fabrics are punctuated by marble accents and striking artwork, evoking a sense of timelessness.
Where Via Belmonte, 43, 90142 Palermo PA, Italy
Phone +39 091 631 2111
Pricing £££
Rome in late autumn is a revelation: the city, bathed in a softer light, feels almost cinematic. Colosseum looms as an eternal sentinel of the past, while the Vatican hums with quiet reverence. Strolling along the cobblestoned streets of Trastevere, past ivy-clad facades and bustling trattorias, you catch the scent of roasted chestnuts – a reminder of the season’s changing face. Yet, Rome’s energy is constant, a city that never quite pauses.
Returning to Hotel de Russie after a day of exploration feels like stepping into a sanctuary of understated elegance. Nestled within the frenetic energy of Rome, this haven offers a seamless transition from the city’s vibrancy to its own brand of tranquil luxury: the courtyard garden, an unexpected gem in the heart of the Eternal City, unfolds like a secret retreat. Its terraced design, inspired by classical Roman landscaping, is adorned with cascading greenery, fragrant orange trees, and bursts of seasonal flowers; the soft murmur of water from the central fountain creates a soothing backdrop, inviting guests to linger over a coffee or a glass of wine, sheltered from the hum of the bustling streets beyond.
Dining here transcends the ordinary and becomes an occasion steeped in the flavors of Rome and its surrounding Lazio region. At Le Jardin de Russie, every dish tells a story, one that Chef Nazzareno Menghini narrates with a perfect balance of tradition and innovation – the tender lamb with Roman artichokes is a love letter to the city’s culinary heritage, while the creamy, perfectly executed carbonara, its simplicity masking its mastery, is a celebration of local ingredients.
Seasonal produce takes center stage, with dishes highlighting the bounty of nearby markets and farms, from rich porcini mushrooms to vibrant Amalfi lemons; the outdoor dining terrace, with its twinkling lights and lush greenery, offers an enchanting atmosphere – ideal for savoring a languorous dinner under the stars. For those seeking a more casual yet equally sophisticated experience, the Stravinskij Bar is a quintessential Roman gathering spot.
Its menu of meticulously crafted cocktails showcases both classic favorites and modern innovations, each one a tribute to the art of mixology. Signature creations, like the fragrant “Garden Spritz,” pair beautifully with light bites such as delicate fried zucchini blossoms or creamy burrata with a drizzle of Sicilian olive oil; the bar’s location, overlooking the courtyard, makes it a prime spot for people-watching as hotel guests and locals alike weave their stories into the fabric of this storied property.
Where Via del Babuino, 9, 00187 Rome RM, Italy
Phone +39 06 328881
Pricing ££££
What ties these two destinations – and their Rocco Forte anchors – together is a profound respect for their surroundings and a meticulous attention to detail: these hotels are far more than luxurious accommodations; they are cultural touchstones, deeply rooted in the cities they inhabit. Olga Polizzi’s design philosophy shines through in every corner, blending heritage with modernity in a way that feels effortless. At Hotel de Russie, subtle nods to Rome’s classical architecture, arched windows, marble accents, and a muted palette of terracotta and ivory – are juxtaposed with contemporary comforts and bespoke furnishings. It’s a delicate balance that evokes a sense of timeless sophistication.
From Villa Igiea’s commanding views of the Mediterranean to Hotel de Russie’s cosmopolitan charm, each property becomes an extension of its location, reflecting the essence of its city while providing a cocoon of refinement. Whether it’s the hand-painted ceramics in Palermo or the curated artwork in Rome, every detail is a reminder of the deep connection between place and design, a hallmark of Rocco Forte Hotels.
As the journey through Sicily and Rome concludes, Rocco Forte’s signature blend of heritage and luxury now extends to Milan with the recent opening of Rocco Forte House: located near the Duomo, this exclusive property offers five elegant private apartments, seamlessly combining Milanese design sophistication with personalized, top-tier service. From bespoke furnishings to private concierges and tailored amenities, Rocco Forte House redefines urban luxury, providing a home-like retreat in the heart of the city. With this latest addition, Rocco Forte continues to celebrate Italy’s rich culture, offering travelers an unparalleled way to experience its most iconic destinations.