Built in the 1920s, Ortea Palace feels worlds away from its former life as a post office. Sitting on the white island of Ortigia in Syracuse, the hotel oozes both Italian splendour and old world elegance. Stay in spoiling rooms dressed in marble, velvet and polished wood complete with chandeliers and freestanding bathtubs.
Why not request a bicycle and pedal through Syracuse’s medieval lanes. The concierge is all too happy to arrange jaunts around the city and recommend the best restaurants and shops, all close by. After sightseeing you can swim laps in the long patterned indoor pool or soak in the spa’s Turkish bath.
The restaurant with a glass-walled balcony, offers panoramic vistas of Ortigia’s gulf. Look out to views over the harbour and dine on Mediterranean fare. For something more casual, sample Sicilian cuisine in the Brasserie Hall which also serves hearty breakfasts. Or pop into the wine bar for a pre-dinner tipple or to snack on local cheese.
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