Italy’s abundance of coastline includes its magnificent islands, with Sardinia, Sicily, and Puglia at the top of many isle lovers’ lists. Thousands of miles overlooking the sea have required numerous ports and, consequently, as many lighthouses—unique treasures to admire in spectacular and evocative places. The lighthouse: sentinel of the sea, watchman of the night, stronghold in the waves, and symbol of security. George Bernard Shaw called it an “altruistic building” created to serve and help others only. Some of Italy’s lighthouses are outfitted for overnight visitors, offering memorable experiences that no traditional B&B can equal. Here are four to consider for a unique island getaway.
Capofaro Locanda & Malvasia
Capofaro, a member of the Relais &Châteaux association since 2017, reveals that true luxury is natural beauty. The Tasca d’Almerita family, owner of the spectacular estate on the Aeolian island of Salina, north of Sicily, bring a great love for wine and sea to their fine Mediterranean hospitality for friends, guests, and travelers. The heart of the experience is the freshwater pool surrounded by Malvasia (the typical Italian dessert wine) vineyards found in this spacious, green island oasis. Hidden by even more vegetation is a garden SPA. Sports lovers will find a paddle tennis court by the lighthouse and yoga lessons on the roof of the Clubhouse.
Faro Capo-Spartivento
About $6,000.00 per week for two people may be a huge amount of money for a vacation budget, but spending that week at the Capo-Spartivento lighthouse would be a once-in-a-life experience. The six-bedroom and six-bathroom villa is located among one of the most fascinating and untouched areas of Sardinia, atop a rocky promontory with a 360° coastal view. Built entirely of granite by the Italian Navy on behalf of King Vittorio Emanuele II of Savoy, it has been completely refurbished according to the strictest restoration standards. The backyard features a signature Mediterranean garden with century-old olive trees, endemic bushes, and eight glass gazebos. The interior style alternates modern design with vintage furniture collected from all over the world and lighting by Murano glass.
Punta Fenaio
Overlooking the sea, surrounded by wild nature, and offering a truly unique view from its wonderful private terraces, the lighthouse of Punta Fenaio is a little gem. Located in the northern part of the island, this lighthouse built in the late 1800s is now a magnificent resort with rooms and suites (each named for the wind and stars) fully equipped with every comfort and attention to small details. This charming lighthouse is the ideal location for a romantic trip. Prices start at $400.00 per night.
Goro Lighthouse
Goro is a small northern Italian city by the Po River. The Italian name of the sandy place where the lighthouse is nestled is Isola dell’Amore: “Love Island.” Everyone can experience the lighthouse on the island of love for one or more nights and sunbathe, walk, eat lovely seafood, or all of these together. Visitors can also arrive independently with their own boat, finding a cozy place to dine and spend the night.
Barbara Benzoni
Barbara Benzoni was born in Milan and lives between Rome and Tuscany. She is devoted to USA, the land of courage and innovation. She’s Peter's super-lucky mum and Ale's wife. Cinema, art, good food and only beautiful things are the themes of her existence. With a degree in Italian literature and a Masters in Sports Management she can both enjoys books and basketball matches. In 25 years she has been organizing sport events all over the world and she’s been lucky enough to meet the greatest champs ever. Curiosity in everyday life and people are her drivers. Her personal icon is Mohammed Ali : "It's not bragging if you can back it up".