A cliffside positioning and sea views create a sense of
seclusion here – visitors are unlikely to want to leave that
private Capofaro bubble. The rest of the property wades in the
shadow of the northernmost lighthouse in Sicily – nab one of six
rooms located in the converted (and still working) lighthouse. Soft
whites, sea-foraged amphorae and crisp white linen act as a
minimalist foil for the extravagant intensity of the Aeolian
landscape.

Elegant and eco-friendly sums up Monaci delle Terre Nere nicely.
Positioned on a 60-acre farm, the hotel sports a dusky pink
exterior and, inside, the decor is just as distinctive – think:
black walls and reclaimed-wood furnishings. Our favourite thing
about this Sicilian bolthole? The old wine press. Clear some space
in your luggage for a bottle of U’ranaci wine, a bold blend of
grenache grapes and Nerello Mascalese, produced onsite.

For a room with a serious view, opt for the top-floor Superior
Rooms at Principe di Salina – which guarantees ocean vistas. From a
height, you’ll be able to spot all the hotel’s greatest attributes
– the infinity pool being our first port of call (before catching
some sleep in our whitewashed boudoir that is). Feast on
family-style Sicilian dinners at the Ristorante Della Casa, though
don’t let the bountiful bouquets of flowers and hand-painted
earthenware distract you from the task at hand – that being eating
your weight in fresh seafood and moreish vegetable-based
dishes.

Once home to a prince, this old palace in historic Noto is now a
luxe bed and breakfast (eggs royale, anyone?). To really vamp up
the regalness, book out the Austro suite – all gilded, ornate tiles
and frescoed ceilings – which has a stately air to it. Speaking of
air, each of the seven rooms is named after a wind. Wherever you
bed down, this honey-hued baroque beauty is guaranteed to
beguile.

Comprised of 11 rooms (each named after a piece of art, film,
literature or music by a Sicilian artist), this restored
19th-century masseria is a haven for creatives and romantic types
alike. Situated among lush, hilly countryside Dimora delle Balze
stylishly mixes old and new – its handmade cementine tiles and
super-comfy Simmons beds sweeten the deal.

On the tiny Italian island of Pantelleria, in the Strait of
Sicily, is the elegant, white-washed Sikelia. Those in search of a
first-class escape should take note. Paradise found, you’ll be
smitten by the retreat’s traditional dammuso-style structures,
capped with domed roofs. Inside, it’s a more contemporary vibe,
with a first-rate spa to boot.