Villa Igiea
A Liberty palace overlooking the gulf, at the gates of Palermo.
An exceptional
escape
Why choose this journey
Villa Igiea is suited to travelers who wish to combine the heritage of Palermo with the peaceful atmosphere of a seaside residence. Its location slightly away from the center allows guests to return to gardens, pool, and sea views after a day exploring the markets, churches, and historic palaces of the Sicilian capital. Architecture enthusiasts will appreciate the Sala Basile, the Liberty frescoes, and the spaces linked to the Florio family, while couples will enjoy the terraces, spa, and dinners overlooking the gulf. Connecting rooms and large suites also meet the needs of families. The property is particularly recommended for travelers seeking a historic hotel with the services of a true urban resort, without being far from Palermo's main cultural sites.
Villa Igiea occupies a late 19th-century palace overlooking the Gulf of Palermo, at the foot of Monte Pellegrino. Acquired in 1899 by Ignazio and Franca Florio, the former Villa Domville was initially intended to become a sanatorium before being transformed into a grand hotel under the direction of Palermo architect Ernesto Basile, a major figure in Sicilian Liberty style. Inaugurated in the early 20th century, it retains its towers, historic salons, terraced gardens, and the remarkable Sala Basile, decorated with floral frescoes by Ettore De Maria Bergler. Following extensive restoration, the property joined the Rocco Forte Hotels collection.
The hotel comprises 100 rooms and suites, including 72 rooms and 28 suites, distributed between the main palace and the Palazzina Donna Franca. The décor, conceived under the direction of Olga Polizzi with Paolo Moschino and Philip Vergeylen, combines antiques, artworks, custom-made fabrics, parquet flooring, Sicilian majolica, and Carrara marble bathrooms. Many accommodations overlook the gardens or the Tyrrhenian Sea, some featuring a balcony or terrace. The most prestigious suites include the Tower Suite, the Igiea Suite, the George V Suite, and the Donna Franca Suite, which spans 144 m² with its panoramic terrace overlooking the gulf.
The terraced gardens descend toward the port of Acquasanta and surround a panoramic outdoor pool, relaxation areas, and a tennis court. The Irene Forte Spa features five treatment rooms, including a double cabin, a relaxation area, and a fitness room equipped by Technogym. Its massages, facials, and rituals notably use Irene Forte Skincare products made from ingredients grown in Sicily. Connecting accommodations, a family suite that can accommodate up to five adults and one child, as well as personalized activities, also allow families to be welcomed in excellent conditions.
The dining celebrates the Florio heritage and Mediterranean products. In a Louis XVI-inspired salon extended by a terrace overlooking the gulf, the Florio Restaurant offers Sicilian cuisine with a menu designed by chef Fulvio Pierangelini. Set near the pool and gardens, Alicetta operates as a seaside bistro for lunches, aperitivi, and outdoor dinners. The Igiea Terrazza Bar occupies stone vaults facing the sea and notably highlights Florio liqueurs and the Italian cocktail tradition. Villa Igiea also holds two Michelin Keys, a distinction awarded to stays considered exceptional.
Unforgettable moments
- Historic palace linked to the Florio family
- Liberty architecture designed by Ernesto Basile
- Sala Basile adorned with historic frescoes
- Terraced gardens overlooking the Tyrrhenian Sea
- 100 rooms and suites
- Prestigious suites with panoramic terraces
- Outdoor pool overlooking the Gulf of Palermo
- Irene Forte Spa with five treatment rooms
- Tennis court and Technogym fitness room
- Florio Restaurant supervised by Fulvio Pierangelini
- Two Michelin Keys
- Member of Rocco Forte Hotels
Journey in pictures
