Mari del Sud Resort ★★★★

Vulcano is my outstanding setting for a relaxing, laid-back break on this little known about island. Its mysterious origins as the fire god’s workshop fascinate me – it’s not hard to see how the Romans came to this conclusion when you spot the smoke rising from the volcano crater, which sent a slight shiver down my spine. There was no need however, I knew I was safe, the volcano was not due to erupt anytime soon and I was going to be well looked after in the hands of Mari del Sud Resort.

I came for the island’s famous therapeutic mud baths and hot springs, but I wanted a hotel that was also well placed. The Mari del Sud Resort was perfect; just a few steps from the large pool and sea-waters, and just a ten minute walk to the village of Vulcano. After seeing the Aeolian tiled décor and our spacious light room I questioned if I would muster the motivation to leave, everything seemed so temptingly comfortable…

My room was tiled in beautifully patterned Aeolian tiles, smooth and cooling in the hot Italian weather. A neutral décor greeted my eyes, enhanced by the light that streamed through the glass double doors…to where did they lead? The double doors opened out onto a small patio furnished with deck chairs, and led out to the hotel’s divine gardens. The space blended the outdoors with the indoors whilst maintaining a relaxing, Italian vibe. Even the bathroom had a light and airy atmosphere with a large walk-in Italian shower.

After refreshing my body and mind, I decided to head out and explore the hotel itself in the light breeze of evening. The verdant grounds were paved by a white path and surrounded by the great rising and falling scenery of this island. The contrast between the surprising greenery and the dark volcanic earth was eye-catching but, what was more stunning, was spotting the marine blue ocean. Every morning I had my breakfast on the terrace looking out over the glittering bay bringing a little twinkle to my eye and filling me with happy anticipation for the day.

My favourite hangout was by the pool, on one of the many deck chairs or sun beds safely protected by a parasol. The large pool had a length of 25m, perfect for a lovely refreshing swim in the mornings. Here the landscape is also stunning; this hotel holds such a spectacular setting! Whilst I spent my mornings by the pool I spent my evenings in the Ristorante Baia di Ponente, in its white timber interiors that too, blended the inside and out as if there were no division. Romantic lanterns hung from the ceiling and outside there was an idyllic terrace which watched over the harbour, furnished with tables, chairs and comfy sofas ideal for watching the scenery…che panorama! The panoramic view was enough to make me gasp, breathless as I stared at it. Other evenings I chose to have a night cap in the Bar Baia di Ponente, with a large terrace that also faces out to the sea and with a delicious, syrupy cocktail prepared the expert barman, no panorama could have been sweeter!