SUN, SEA & SPA ON VULCAN’S WORKSHOP

Surrounded by pristine waters and carved from volcanic rock, Therasia Resort Sea & Spa is a slice of heaven on earth. By Natasha Venner-pack

The ancient Greeks believed it was one of the mythical forges of the blacksmith god Hephaestus, while the Romans believed it was the chimney of the fire god Vulcan’s workshop.

Over two millennia later, the idyllic isle of Vulcano is the site of the spectacular Therasia Resort Sea & Spa, a luxurious five-star Sicilian hideaway that boasts natural therapeutic thermal mud baths, two infinity pools (one of which includes a hydromassage) and unparalleled views of the Tyrrhenian Sea.

Indulge in the finest Sicilian cuisine created by chef Giuseppe Biuso at the one-michelin-starred Il Cappero, the only restaurant in the Aeolian islands to have received this honour. The only spot in the Aeolians to provide sweeping views of all the other isles, Il Cappero sources all its ingredients locally and has an extensive wine list.

For breakfast, dine at Sicilian restaurant L’arcipelago and in the afternoon, enjoy a casual poolside lunch at restaurant and grill I Grusoni (both are also open for dinner, the latter only until the middle

of September). Watch the sunset, cocktail in hand, at I Russuri, or enjoy live music and tipples at lounge bar I Faraglioni.

Complementing the resort’s volcanic surroundings, the 97 rooms and suites are done up in a palette of soft, light hues. Boasting spectacular sea views, the elegantly furnished spaces have a distinct Mediterranean vibe, courtesy of materials such as lava rock, Sicilian terracotta and cedar wood, and are made for whiling the days away. The Master room, for instance, has its own private jacuzzi that looks out to sea, while the palatial sea-facing Panarea Suite has not one but three terraces where you can bask in the sun and enjoy a private breakfast or dinner. After a day of snorkelling, and exploring the nearby beaches and attractions, pamper yourself with one of the many face and body treatments – from the detoxifying Hephaestus’s Workshop massage to the purifying Vulcano Black Sand Scrub – at the Spa, which also has a gym, an indoor pool, a whirlpool tub, a sauna, Turkish baths and more. In the mood for love? Book it (at an additional cost) after 10pm for a private spa session with your lover, complete with a bottle of wine.

Open from April to October, this pet-friendly hotel provides a free shuttle service to and from the hotel to the village centre and port. Helicopter transfers to and from the airport, excursions to the other Aeolian islands, guided museum tours, and car, scooter, boat and bicycle hires can also be arranged.