Ed.: The Inspired Stays series highlights hotels we love around Italy. Each property is independently reviewed by an Italy Magazine writer, who is generally hosted on a complimentary basis. Our contributors do not accept compensation or gifts in exchange for specific types of coverage. We only showcase properties we would genuinely recommend overall.
Why we love it
Inspired by dammusi, the typical homes on the enchanting volcanic island of Pantelleria, this low-lying resort blends in with its natural surroundings. It may not be the pinnacle of luxury, but with an infinity pool overlooking the sea, a restaurant serving delicious local cuisine, and freestanding rooms, it’s one of the best options on the island.
What to expect
Open seasonally from May through October, this four-star resort offers a delicious taste of life on the wild, windswept island of Pantelleria. Most of the buildings are constructed from the local stone and have curved white roofs typically found on Pantellerian dammusi. Spread out over four hectares of sloping terrain that descends toward the sea, the resort feels like a verdant Mediterranean oasis with bright fuchsia bougainvillea, rosemary bushes, succulents, and olive, orange and lemon trees.
Background
Independent and individually owned, the property opened in 2006. The owner, Lorenzo Ferrari, is an entrepreneur from Bologna. This is his only hotel.
Location, location, location
The resort is located in Khamma, on the eastern side of the island, in a privileged position near Cala Levante and the Elephant Arch. It’s a five-minute drive from Il Principe e Il Pirata, which is one of Pantelleria’s best restaurants; a seven-minute drive from Donnafugata’s Khamma estate, where you can do a wine tasting and visit the Giardino Pantesco; and a 10-minute drive from the natural hot springs in Gadir.
Where you’ll sleep
The 43 rooms are divided between 15 dammusi and each room has its own private patio with a couple of chairs overlooking the sea. Depending on your point of view, they’re either charmingly minimalist or a bit spartan, with thick white walls, dark gray floors and wooden furniture. With flatscreen TVs, air conditioning, a minifridge, safe and free Wi-Fi, they’ve got everything you need and nothing you don’t.
Dining & drinks
The restaurant, Acquamore, has seating outside on a covered terrace with beautiful sea views. At breakfast you’ll find standard buffet options as well as mini cannoli. The chef Pietro Mangani worked alongside top chefs including Heinz Beck and Riccardo di Giacinto. For lunch, he keeps things simple with light dishes like insalata pantesca and grilled octopus, while for dinner he exercises his creative muscles, with elegantly presented dishes like tuna caponata with ricotta salata, almonds and Passito reduction. Wiki Wiki, the poolside bar, serves classic and creative cocktails.
Service notes
There’s no gym or spa, but guests can book treatments in their rooms for an additional charge.
Family perks
There’s no kids club or anything, but children up to three years old stay for free. I didn’t see any kids around during my stay, but I was there during back-to-school season. Pets are allowed with a supplement of €20 per night.
You should know...
Pantelleria is definitely a destination for more independent, adventurous travelers who want to get off the grid and experience one of Italy’s more rugged islands. Public transit and taxis can be hard to come by, so if you’re not comfortable renting a car or scooter, you might find yourself stuck at the resort.
Accessibility
- The hotel has ADA friendly rooms and bathrooms.
- There are accessible rooms, but people with mobility limitations might have trouble navigating the sloping terrain.
Features & amenities
- Waterfront setting
- Seaside
- Restaurant
- Bar
- Free WiFi
- Free parking
- Pool
- Pets allowed
- Family friendly
Contacts
Pantelleria Dream Resort
Via dei Mennuli snc, Pantelleria
Tel. +39 0923031485
Website
