THE ULTIMATE SICILIAN RETREAT: ADLER SPA RESORT SICILIA

Our tour of the beautiful Italian island of Sicily was truly remarkable. Yet, it left us feeling a bit drained. After five days of driving, exploring, and switching hotels, rich food and wine, we found ourselves exhausted. It was a journey filled with beautiful memories, but we also felt the weight of indulgence. We acknowledged it was okay to recharge. The next four days at ADLER Spa Resort SICILIA revitalized our spirits, refreshed our bodies, and reignited our energy. It was the perfect culmination of our Sicilian tour.

ADLER SICILIA—DESTINATION NATURE

ADLER Spa Resort SICILIA is located near the village of Siculiana in the Provance of Agrigento, Sicily, Italy. The resort’s buildings sit atop a gently sloping hill on 760 hectares (1878 acres). The property is bordered west by the Mediterranean Sea and southeast by the Torre Salsa Nature Reserve. From the ADLER’s main property, there are walking trails leading to the beach and nature preserve. Guests may freely walk on the beach or nature preserve, where they will encounter very little other than the flora and fauna that are natural to the area.

Taking time to immerse ourselves in nature was indeed a healing experience, and at ADLER, communing with nature is a way to foster serenity and meditation. Beautiful gardens and comfortable seating areas exist for those who may prefer to stay close to the main buildings. Here, the tranquility is gently punctuated by the soft sound of the surf coming to shore or the soothing rustle of leaves in the sea breeze, offering a perfect backdrop for reflection and peace.

THE ADLER RESORT AND SPA SICILIA GUEST ROOM

A wave of tranquility washed over us as we stepped into our room. We paused momentarily, grinning at the inviting large bed with crisp white sheets, plush pillows, and a thick, cozy comforter. But we were drawn to the large sliding glass door, eager to take in the view.

A deck for relaxing

Opening the door, we stepped onto a spacious wooden deck overlooking park-like grounds and the serene sea. The air was alive with the invigorating scent of salt, sea, and earth. It was exactly what we needed—a perfect opportunity to unwind, recharge, and reconnect with nature.

There was a small table and two chairs perfect for morning coffee. We loved the circular lounge where, later that evening, we enjoyed a nightcap while watching the moon rise. Occasionally, a night bird called. The sea played a soft soundtrack of waves kissing the sand.

Water world

The beautiful bathroom had a large glass shower with rain and hand-held fixtures. The ADLER bath and hair cosmetics were exceptional, but the water was the real star. Our hair and skin were soft and shining after each shower. What a treat.

The double sinks had plenty of counter space for our grooming products. A lovely wooden box held vanity necessities. Under the sink, we found a hair dryer and huge, thick bath towels perfect for wrapping up after a shower.

The ADLER bath robes lay folded on a bench. They are the best we have ever used. The sand-colored full-length robes with hoods could be seen everywhere during the day as people visited the spa, pools, and casual meals.

Unpack and unwind

We unpacked and hung our clothes in the spacious his and hers closets. There was plenty of shelf space for folded clothing, hats, and shoes.

Between the closets, the beverage center contained a kettle, a coffee maker, and a small refrigerator. Water, juice, and Sicilian soft drinks were chilled and ready to pour. Top-shelf coffee and tea were ready when a caffeine break was needed.

The large desk was quickly used for our laptops and chargers. Mary tried out the large chase lounge, deciding it was perfect for a nap later that day.

The task and mood lighting, natural fibers, warm wood, and thoughtful amenities transformed the room into an oasis of relaxation.

ADLER SICILIA—WELLNESS BORN OF FIRE AND WATER

Water is one of Earth’s most potent and healing elements; it’s also one of ADLER’s. There are four pools where you can swim, float, or walk.

Pools

• Sole Pool—an indoor/outdoor pool that is lightly saline and heated in colder months. You have a beguiling view of the sea on the horizon from indoors and out.
• Dolce Pool—It is outdoors and slightly heated. It is a rejuvenating swim year-round. Next to the pool, there is a garden with sun lounges and umbrellas. It is ideal for a sunbath or shaded nap.
• Semi-Olympic Sports Pool—The sports pool views the sea and nature preserve. The 25-metre pool is made for swimmers. AquaGym lessons are available, as are invigorating morning swims.
• Thalasso Pool—The warmly heated salt and mineral pool overhangs the sea, facing the white cliffs of Capobianco. It is ideal for celebrating sunset while pampering your body with massage jets, warm water, and Earth’s precious minerals.

Saunas

Heat is soothing to the body and soul. ADLER has Finnish saunas with intense dry heat, milder biosaunas, and steam baths.

• Panorama Finnish Sauna—With spectacular views of the sea and Mediterranean savanna, the sauna has a temperature of 80ºC (176ºF) and humidity at 15—20%. Sauna infusions are added daily.
• Panorama Bio Sauna—Relax on gently curved wood loungers at a temperature of 60°C (140ºF) and a humidity rate of 40%. The bio sauna also has a view of the sea and Mediterranean savanna.
• Steam Bath—Surrounded by greenery, the steam bath has a temperature of 45ºC (113ºF) and 45—90% humidity. Many use the steam bath to relieve rheumatic pain and muscle tension as part of their wellness retreat.

ADLER SICILIA—WELLNESS AND SPA TREATMENTS

ADLER Spa offers a wide variety of spa treatments for skin, hair, body, and spirit. Performed by trained and environmentally sensitive personnel. You may choose your treatments or have a program designed to meet your needs. Medical professionals are also available to assist with diagnosis and treatment for your wellness journey.

Kevin indulged in a Swedish massage during our visit. After checking in at reception, he was led to a private room overlooking the resort’s lush green grounds. The treatment area has a relaxing, peaceful vibe when you enter. The sound-proof treatment room offers a sanctuary for relaxation as the masseuse begins her gentle technique. When the treatment was finished, Kevin awoke more relaxed than he had felt for some time.

FOOD AND LIBATIONS

While walking to the beach, we took a path through the kitchen gardens. We were delighted to see organically and biodynamically grown fruit, vegetables, and herbs. Greenery and blooms also flourished for the arrangements gracing so much of the resort.

Farm-to-table cuisine is the foundation of ADLER’s cuisine philosophy. ADLER grows most of the food served in the restaurants. They have a flock of sheep that provide dairy and meat. If not produced on the property, the produce and meat come from farms neighboring the property.

Wine served is also a local affair. They partner with Donnafugata Winery and serve their award-winning Sicilian wines. You will find wines from other regions, but Sicilian wines are featured. The bar has an international selection of spirits, including lovely single-malt scotches, cognacs, and whiskeys. Smoothies, teas, and coffee can be enjoyed at the restaurants or spa.

BL&D

ADLER has two restaurants: The Seaview and The Osteria.

The Seaview serves breakfast and dinner.

Breakfast is a buffet with an eclectic selection of breakfast foods. We especially liked the house-made sheep’s yogurt with orange juice squeezed from the oranges grown on the property. Each day, we tried a different bread for our toast. The savory-filled croissants were the winners.

Dinner at Seaview is a lovely affair. Each evening, a new menu of starters and main courses is presented. The choices include meat, fish, vegetarian, and vegan choices. While your entrée is prepared, you can choose from the soups, salads, pasta dishes, breads, and cheese buffet.

Following your last course, you return to the buffet to explore the dessert offerings. The selections available are both impressive and varied, providing a wonderful opportunity to indulge in a delightful finale to your dining experience.

The Osteria serves lunch. Covered and uncovered open-air seating is available. All seating has an inspiring view of the sea, flora, and pool areas. You can choose soups, pasta, sandwiches, salads, and pizza. Dessert is also served for those of us with a sweet tooth.

EXPERIENCES ON AND OFF-PROPERTY

ADLER Spa Resort SICILIA offers a daily schedule of experiences. Maintain your practice or begin a new one with daily yoga classes. Spend time in the gym for strength training. Take a solo or guided walk to the beach or the nature reserve adjacent to ADLER. Join a wine-tasting or cooking class.

Cultural immersion in the region is available via food and wine tastings and day trips to historic sites like the spectacular Valley of the Temples, an archeological park and UNESCO World Heritage Site, with Greek temples built between 510 BC and 430 BC. The day we visited, we joined a pasta-making class at a restaurant in the park. Everyone’s pasta was cooked, and we had lunch.

WHY RETREAT AT ADLER SPA RESORT SICILIA?

ADLER Spa Resort SICILIA is the ultimate destination for rejuvenation and relaxation. Nestled in a superb natural landscape, this luxurious resort offers a blend of comfort and wellness, set against the backdrop of the Mediterranean Sea.

You can indulge in serene pools, exceptional spa treatments, and tranquil gardens for a holistic escape from everyday life. The beautifully designed accommodations ensure a restful stay, while the nearby Torre Salsa Nature Reserve invites exploration.

Whether seeking a wellness retreat or immersion into tranquility, ADLER Spa Resort SICILIA promises a restorative experience that refreshes and inspires you. Embrace the healing power of nature!