Pantelleria is a stunner; just 60 km away from Africa, you can spot the Tunisian coastline on a clear sky day. Even though it has long been Giorgio Armani’s summer vacation getaway of choice, the island has remained a hidden gem – forever nestled in the Mediterranean sea.
The Pretty Hotels member, Parco dei Sesi, is located on the island’s west coast. It faces the Mediterranean sea on one side and ancient dark Volcanoes on the other.
As we passed the arch gate of the property and drove through the palm hallway dancing with the wind, we were both welcomed by the scents of rosemary, lavender, lemon trees, and capers, along with the two lovely hosts and owners Margot and Massimiliano. Quite a start to a fascinating holiday in this incredible oasis of nature.
The Inn Keepers
Three years ago, Margot and Massismiliano moved to Pantelleria to renovate the Dammuso (the typical ancient homes on the island). The ones at Parco dei Sesi were originally built by Massimiliano’s father, Filippo Panseca, in the ’70s. The Pansecas are renowned artists, and it was inevitable that art and design be rooted throughout the whole project.
Clearly, Parco Dei Sesi is first and foremost a unique guest house in the middle of the Mediterranean sea, but it also sees itself as an artist residency. Twice a year, there is a curated program inviting artists to create and be inspired by the unique lifestyle and landscape of the island in exchange for their talent. During your stay you will be able to admire the program’s results around the whole estate, on the rooftops, and in the rooms.
We really fell in love with the rooms and apartments – curated with impressive attention to detail, from the antic doors to the unique objects found at flea markets in France and Italy blended with contemporary art and design. If you have a knack for simplicity, you will definitely love the unique atmosphere of this guest house.
THE ROOMS
The most extensive accommodation is the Dammuso Grande, which has two large bedrooms and a twin room, a kitchen and a large living room with a fireplace. Then there’s the Ossidiana, for example, with its super-beautiful window overlooking the sea, or the Pietra, which has a spectacular roof terrace – also overlooking the sea – (highly recommended for city dwellers).
Or the Sesi, with a kitchen under the pergola and surrounded by ancient walls. And Gelkamar, Ulivo, Gelsifer: each room a treasure chest of memories, artworks and design elements carefully chosen by the couple. Then there are the Barracks to experience the atmosphere of a creative space overlooking the waves.
Culinary
At the center of any Italian home, and it is undoubtedly so at Parco dei Sesi, are food and festivity.
The Farm to table restaurant : La Cucina di Parco dei Sesi offers a seasonal menu, grounded in Sicilian culinary heritage and shaped by the exceptional ingredients from their own farms in Pantelleria and Salemi as well as from from local producers. There’s no reinvention, just simplicity, care, and the quiet luxury of food prepared with the respect of the soil and man labour.
the region
Parco dei Sesi is located next to the Sesi Archaeological Park, where you can admire the remains of the fortress and the village built 5000 years ago by the Sesiotes, an archaic population about whom little is known. A wild and remote corner, but a strategic point to reach the many beautiful parts of the island.
Parco dei Sesi also offers many curated excursions around the island created and honed through their passionate eyes – from boat excursions to hiking or cave and canyon visits. This summer there will also be a yoga and wellness therapist on the property.
CHILDREN
ARRIVAL
The best flight connections are via Palermo and Catania. Both airports offer direct flights to Pantelleria. We would also recommend renting a car upon your arrival. If you have time, you can also arrive by boat from Trapani / Sicily.
PRICES
250€ in low season for a deluxe bedroom and 720€ for a master suite with sea view. The Grande Dammuso costs 1,200 euros in high season.
Booking & Contacts
Parco dei Sesi
Strada perimetrale Ovest 95
91017 Pantelleria TP,
Italy
