Sikelia
is a luxury retreat, created from an ancient dammuso – a original
timeless stone habitation - on the elite Italian island of Pantelleria.
Formed approximately 300,000 years ago, Pantalleria’s volcanic origins
have enabled the island to offer a natural open air spa facility: from
the hot springs of Gadir and the Benikulà Cave natural sauna to the mud
of the Lago di Venere.
Defined by its monastic African architecture, Sikelia is a destination
for discerning travellers looking to connect with nature and enjoy the
natural hot springs and fumeroles of this volcanic island. Located
100km south west of Sicily and known as the ‘black pearl’ of the
Mediterranean, Pantelleria is a renowned celebrity hideaway, known for
its secluded private villas. The island boasts a rugged coastline with
small coves and spectacular caves surrounded by the bluest of seas and
warm, volcanic waters and overlooked by a lush green countryside.
The 20 suite Sikelia has been created by Giulia Pazienza, owner of
Pantelleria’s Coste Ghirlanda Estate, and producer of its renowned
Zibibbo and Grenache wines. Ms Pazienza Gelmetti comments: “The
idea for Sikelia came to me some time ago – Pantelleria has so much to
offer and it needs to be shared with people who care about fine
things. For the last ten years, I have worked to create an artistic and
emotional residence that reflects the wild beauty of Pantelleria using
metal, glass and the highest quality fabrics. Each of the 20 suites has
its own unique design and identity, which links the property’s original
monastic architecture with refined contemporary elegance.”
Wine and Food: Arabic, African and Mediterranean emotions at Thema’ Restaurant
The
bold flavours of Arabia, Africa and Southern Italy offered at Thema’,
combine fresh fish and shellfish with Pantelleria’s famous capers as
well as oregano and courgettes from the Sikelia’s vegetable garden.
Arabic fish couscous and desserts with Sicilian caponata, Pantelleria
potato salad or Bitter Ravioli, create new dishes and ensure ‘one of a
kind’ encounters with the flavours of the island.
Thema' is Sikelia’s restaurant where emotional cuisine nourishes the
traveller’s soul, showcasing the flavours and aromas of this special
island. Spices, local sourced ingredients and revisited traditional
recipes are created in partnership with Trussardi alla Scala with Coste
Ghirlanda Estate’s products including olive trees, capers, fruit trees
and wines such as the renowned Zibibbo grapes, ripened under the intense
African sun and part of UNESCO’s World Heritage.
Architecture and Interior Design
The
conversion and extension of the original structure was been placed in
the hands of architect Gabriella Giuntoli, the island's most famous
resident who restored, among others, Armani’s dammusi: She brought a
conscious harmony to the project, respecting nature and the ancient
timeless stone buildings.
The interior design was created from a complicity and understanding
between Giulia and Katherina Pazienza Gelmetti, who share a taste for
simple elegance, firmly integrated with the natural way of life of the
island. High quality fabrics, metals, concrete and glass underpin the
design within the ancient dammusi. In addition, renowned artist Gennaro
Avallone’s paintings, pieces of furniture and decorative objects have
also been introduced to the communal spaces as well as all suites.
Working as an archaeologist, Avallone approached the decoration of
Sikelia by reflecting ancient pottery, glazed painted tiles, and
predominantly dark shades throughout the property. Bronze and glass
stand alongside stucco (original render) and concrete throughout.
The design details, the choice of materials and the architectural
languages were handled by two young engineers, Francesco Alessandrelli
and Katherina Pazienza Gelmetti, who integrated technical aspects with
formal research.
Sikelia Spa: Wellbeing from Volcanic Hot Springs
To
reconcile the mind and body, the Sikelia Spa will open next year,
introducing original treatments inspired by Pantelleria.. Natural hot
springs, rejuvenating mud and Zibibbo grapes will feature and guests
will be invited to rediscover their physical and mental wellbeing in the
beautiful green surroundings of the outdoor fitness area. This year,
guests will be able to experience spa treatments in the Arabic gardens
of Sikelia, caressed by the wind and the smell of the sea.
Soft opening rates start at €400 for a suite in B&B
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