A world (or, in reality, a hydrofoil ferry) away from tourist-trodden sights in Taormina and Mount Etna sits the wild Aeolian island of Vulcano. It’s here, surrounded by the sparkling Tyrrhenian Sea, volcanic rocks, and Mediterranean shrubs, that you’ll find Therasia Resort, a member of Leading Hotels of the World.
{Start Perks}
Book With Us for Perks
- Daily Breakfast for Two
- Room Upgrade (subject to availability)
- Complimentary Wi-Fi
- Early Check In (subject to availability)
- Late Check Out (subject to availability)
- Hotel Resort Stay Credit
{End Perks}
Open seasonally from April to October, the 70-key property is the perfect warm-weather escape that doesn’t require combating crowds. Elevated yet mellow and tailor-made for privacy, it’s the ideal pick for travelers who prefer the amenities, bend-over-backwards service, and dining options of a five-star resort but still want a more personalized, intimate experience.
After check-in inside the well-dressed lobby, it’s time for a quick outfit change and straight to the pool, where the infinity edge seems to extend all the way to the azure and the umbrella-shaded loungers provide a perfect repose from the sun. There’s also a platform with an entry into the sea down below.
After you’ve spent hours soaking in the rays and swimming—with a break for lunch at I Grusoni—meander over to I Russuri for aperitivo with gin cocktails, a serious spread of nibbles, and breathtaking vistas of the mystical Faraglioni of Lipari. The lobby bar, I Faraglioni, which spills out onto the terrace, is another idyllic spot for sips and stunning sweeps.
For dinner, guests have plenty of delicious choices. Experimental plant-based cuisine might not be something you’d associate with dining on a small, isolated island off the coast of Sicily, but that’s exactly what’s on the tasting menu at Michelin-starred I Tenerumi, helmed by chef Davide Guidara, winner of Michelin’s Best Young Chef award. Michelin-starred I Cappero (also open for lunch, should you want a gastronomic indulgence during daylight hours) focuses on sustainability, partnering with local fishermen and farms to get the highest quality products to craft flavorful, fine-dining dishes. Vino lovers will appreciate the wine pairing, which spotlights white, orange, and red pours from around the Med’s largest island and beyond.
For something a bit more relaxed but still refined, I Archipelago serves tasty pizzas and pasta. In the morning, the dining room becomes a Sicilian breakfast bonanza with everything from fresh baked goods (brioches, croissants, sourdough, and cakes) and fruit preserves to local meats, cheeses, and arancini.
Rooms have an easy-going elegance thanks to white walls, Sicilian tiles, and Mediterranean wood. Floor-to-ceiling windows let in plenty of natural light. The best part? Furnished balconies with sweeping views. For even more comfort and privacy, splash out on the fabulous Suite Eolie, featuring a large living room, two bathrooms, and a panoramic terrace with a couple-sized hydromassage pool.
Travelers looking to disconnect and relax for a few days will appreciate the stillness and quietude found throughout the property, but particularly at the spa. The wellness facilities include treatment rooms for massages and facials, a hot pool with hydromassage, sauna, Turkish bath, and sensory shower, plus a large fitness center.
Beyond the eye-popping panoramas, gourmet fare, and well-being boosters, what really sets Therasia Resort apart is the team. Everyone goes above and beyond for guests—whether that’s arranging exclusive boat excursions between the Aeolian Islands or entertaining kiddos so parents can have a moment to sip a perfectly made cappuccino while it’s still hot.
Fast Facts
Location: Vulcano, Aeolian Islands, Italy
Rating: Five-Star
The Vibe: Resort life—but make it boutique, with gourmet dining and gobsmacking views.
Food + Drink: I Archipelago puts on a massive breakfast spread for breakfast and is open for dinner as well. The two Michelin-starred restaurants, I Cappero and I Tenerumi, wow with distinctive gourmet tasting menus. I Grusoni is great for a light lunch or some bites during the day.
Amenities: 4 restaurants (2 with Michelin stars); 2 bars; 1 infinity pool; 2 seawater pools; spa; fitness center; yoga classes; concierge; shuttle
Our Favorite Thing About the Hotel: Michelin dining at both I Cappero and I Tenerumi (don’t make us choose a favorite).
5 Nearby Attractions: Cratere Vulcano; Spiaggia dell'Asino; Spiaggia delle Acque Calde; La Baia Negra; sunset boat excursion
Any Personal Neighborhood Recs? Vulcano is known for its volcanic mud. Self-care seekers who don’t mind the very strong sulfur smell might enjoy a slather and soak. For everyone else, there’s sun and sea at the black-sand beaches and a handful of restaurants. Don Pirricudu is great for seafood pasta.
Rooms: 70 rooms and suites
Pricing: Rooms start at $456/night
Closest Airport: Vincenzo Bellini Catania Airport (CTA)
Other Articles You May Like
- This Romantic Boutique Hotel in the Hills Above Taormina Offers Breathtaking Views of the Ionian Sea and Mount Etna
- Sicilian Hospitality, Sweeping Sea View, and a Gastronomic Restaurant Make This Family-Run Respite Our Favorite Hotel in Cefalú
- This Palazzo Villa Rental in Noto, Italy, Is the Sicilian Hideaway You Need in Your Life
