SimplyAbuDhabi XLVII

History & Architecture O n Sicily’s sun-drenched southwest coast, between the ancient Valley of the Temples and the fishing town of Sciacca, the Verdura Resort rises from a tapestry of olive groves, citrus orchards, and 1.8 kilometres of private Mediterranean shoreline. Opened as the flagship of Rocco Forte Hotels in 2009, this vast estate—230 hectares in all—embodies the Forte family’s vision of contemporary luxury grounded in tradition and a profound sense of place. The architecture, by Flavio Albanese, is a masterclass in modernist restraint and Sicilian authenticity. Strong, geometric lines echo the sturdy forms of traditional island farmhouses, while a palette of Latin terracotta, ochre, and natural stone blends harmoniously with the wild landscape. Interiors, curated by Olga Polizzi, are a celebration of local craftsmanship: hand-painted tiles inspired by a 19th-century Sicilian motif, artisanal ceramics, and bespoke furnishings by Italy’s leading ateliers. The result is a seamless marriage of inside and out—spaces that feel both luxuriously expansive and intimately connected to the land. Sustainability is woven into the resort’s guiding ethos and the use of solar panels, water recycling, and a no-car policy help to preserve the natural beauty, while LED lighting and eco-conscious management ensure a light footprint on this ancient island. Arrival Experience Arriving at Verdura is to enter into a haven, an escape. The approach winds through groves of gnarled olives and fragrant orange trees, the sea glimmering in the distance. At the entrance, staff greet you with the warmth for which Sicilians are renowned—smiles genuine, service anticipatory, yet never obtrusive. Luggage disappears discreetly, and check-in is a breeze, with a refreshing local citrus drink in hand. The lobby’s soaring ceilings and botanical motifs set an immediate tone of understated elegance. Guests are whisked by electric buggy to their rooms, passing lawns dotted with free-roaming bicycles, infinity pools, and glimpses of the golf courses unfurling toward the horizon. The atmosphere is tranquil, with a sense of privacy and space that is rare even among Europe’s grandest resorts. Simply Abu Dhabi | 245