This oh-so-pretty island off the west coast of Sicily is a well-kept secret. Apart from the scorching summer months when the Italians flock there, the pace remains gloriously slow. Spend days beneath a default blue sky, catching the breeze as you cycle from bay to stunning bay, with that crystal clear, turquoise sea glistening beside you. Sigh.
Il Baglio sull’Acqua is perfectly placed for such frolicking. Spectacular beaches are within easy reach and the bustling port town is even closer. Sister to nearby Casalmare, this peaceful 19th-century retreat delivers on design. Each of its 10 rooms has been styled with Sicilian flair. Think soothing neutral tones, wood-beamed ceilings and checkerboard floors. Watch the sea or surrounding olive groves from your window or private terrace. Outside, an impressive pool glimmers from the lush green gardens.
The chef serves up traditional Sicilian greats on the candlelit terrace. Or sip a chilled Campari in the tranquil Arabian-styled courtyard. There’s still time to discover Favignana before word gets out. Just keep it under your (sun) hat.
Il Baglio sull’Acqua is perfectly placed for such frolicking. Spectacular beaches are within easy reach and the bustling port town is even closer. Sister to nearby Casalmare, this peaceful 19th-century retreat delivers on design. Each of its 10 rooms has been styled with Sicilian flair. Think soothing neutral tones, wood-beamed ceilings and checkerboard floors. Watch the sea or surrounding olive groves from your window or private terrace. Outside, an impressive pool glimmers from the lush green gardens.
The chef serves up traditional Sicilian greats on the candlelit terrace. Or sip a chilled Campari in the tranquil Arabian-styled courtyard. There’s still time to discover Favignana before word gets out. Just keep it under your (sun) hat.
Highs
- Unpretentious, smartly designed rooms with some Moroccan flare
- Utterly dreamy pool in a magical garden setting
- Top-notch location, with sea views and easy access to the island’s best bits
- The food served in the restaurant is reportedly delicious
- We hear the senior management is super-friendly and helpful
Lows
- Word is the restaurant service can be a little slow
- It’s not the easiest place to reach, but the 30-minute ferry crossings to the island are frequent
- Reception closes at night so don’t expect round-the-clock service
- It doesn’t come cheap, but places like this rarely do
- 7 night minimum stay in August preferred; shorter stays can be arranged depending on availability
Best time to go
During July and August, Italian tourists flock to Favignana while the temperatures are scorching. We recommend visiting during late spring (April/May) or autumn (September/October) for fewer crowds and comfortably warm sunshine.
Note that the hotel has a short season, typically mid-May to mid-October.
Note that the hotel has a short season, typically mid-May to mid-October.
Our top tips
Pack rock shoes. Those stunning rock formations can be harsh on the toes. Also, we suggest spending your last night on Sicily to make travelling home a little more straightforward (read: the perfect excuse to add Sicily to your itinerary!) Browse our Sicily collection here.