Situated along a narrow, secluded road just over three miles from Syracuse and Ortigia Island, the five-star Grand Hotel Minareto is a deluxe coastal resort in stunning Sicily. The property is a network of detached and semi-detached suites on circular roads, some villas with sea views, and all within a short walk of a large central swimming pool and the white-sand beach.
Photo Courtesy of Grand Hotel Minareto
Named after a camping site that once occupied the land (an ornamental minaret being the only remaining symbol), the 90-suite, honey-colored, adobe-like resort opened four years ago and has four different categories of accommodation.
Photo Courtesy of Grand Hotel Minareto
The hotel's entrance is at the end of a rotund driveway next to a tall, intricate stone, glass and metal sculptured water fountain featuring birds in flight. Tall olive and palm trees stand on either side of the entrance. The spacious lobby can best be described as chic with high, white stucco ceilings, hanging chandeliers, cream-colored marble flooring, and a large reception desk. The contemporary design of the room is awash with soft, plush crimson and black leather seats, tall gold vases, hearty bonsai trees and bronze sculptures.
Photo Courtesy of Grand Hotel Minareto
Adjacent to the lobby, through sliding doors, is an open, high-ceilinged atrium and beyond that, a door leads outside to a short tunnel that ends with the property's own soft-sand beach. The private shoreline is intimate, crescent-shaped and lined with palm trees and steep, white chalk-like cliffs. A second beach is rockier, but quieter.
Photo Courtesy of Grand Hotel Minareto
The guestrooms display a dark ash-gray marble floor, creamy white walls and heavy gold and green curtains. Appliqué art and gold-framed mirrors decorate the walls. Aside from a comfortable bed, a large utilitarian desk and two round bedside tables occupy most of the space. The bathroom is a mélange of contrasting color — spring-green walls with thin gray borders and a sandy-colored wall facing the sink.
Photo Courtesy of Grand Hotel Minareto
One of the best things about the accommodations are the outdoor patios, which provide terrific views overlooking the Ionian Sea and across to the old town center of Ortigia Island. Suites with sea views are the best location choices on the property and while more expensive, worth paying for.
Photo Credit: Columbia Hillen
The resort is located in the middle of a protected area and its grounds are attractive — filled with well-tended flowers, cacti and olive trees. The hotel provides a shuttle service to nearby Syracuse and its archaeological park. Massage rooms, a fine-dining restaurant, pool service and area tours are among the other services the property provides. Rates begin at around USD $560 a night during weekdays.
