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WELLNESS AT MAZARO DEL VALLO AMONG OLIVE GROVES AND CITRUS TREES
RELAX AND REGENERATE YOUR BODY WITH PURE MARINE SALT AND VOLCANIC CLAY FROM SICILY
Discover an original and ancient side of Sicily in the north west of the island. This is an area of appealing contrasts of high rugged mountains, fertile farmed valleys and plains with a high concentration of vineyards as well as orchards and olive groves, outstandingly beautiful coastlines with bays, sunny sandy beaches, coves, unique islands (the Egadi and Stagnone archipelagos), bustling coastal towns blending past and present and typical tranquil Sicilian villages frozen in time and tradition.
In addition to these features, North West Sicily is exceptionally gifted with amazing archaeological remains, particularly the awesome Ancient Greek temples at Segesta and Selinunte. Like the rest of the island, the north-west is renowned for its truly superb cuisine, but here there are visible Arab influences, such as the pervasive presence of couscous. Other treats include fresh fish, sea-food, freshly picked fruit and vegetables, particularly the aubergine, and exquisite cakes and pastries filled with creamy ricotta
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Day 1 : check in at the Hotel and visit of Mazara. Said to be Italy's largest fishing port, Mazara del Vallo has a long, tree-lined promenade that's ideal for an evening stroll or jogging. The large influx of foreigners, mostly Tunisians, give the city a different feel from the rest Sicily and there are mosques that reflect their Islamic roots. You're also likely to be able to eat some great couscous. Visit of Duomo just on the corner of the Piazza della Repubblica, it is a Norman cathedral that was rebuilt in the seventeenth century with a portrayal of the bloody killing of a Saracen carved above the entrance. The piazza is home to the beautiful Seminario dei Chierici and a statue of San Vito a Mare, the city's patron saint. This is a good place to start a rambling walk around the centre taking in its churches, cafes and numerous shops along the way.The highlight of the tour to Mazara del Vallo is a visit to the museum of the Satiro Danzante, or Dancing Satyr. Local fishermen caught this bronze statue in their nets in 1998 in the catch of a lifetime, and it is believed to have been sculpted by the ancient Greek artist Praxiteles c. 300 B.C. With its twisted curves and dynamic shape depicting a satyr in the throes of Dionysian ecstasy, it is as beautiful as any Michelangelo, and it took years of painstaking restoration work to restore it to its former glory.
Day 2 : visit of Palermo With architectural and cultural influences from North Africa, Italy, Spain and Greece, Palermo can boast a large number of tourist attractions. Indeed, the historic district of Palermo can be considered as unique, its architectural heritage and historic attractions having survived a record number of invasions over the years.
The tour starts with a visit of Palazzo Mirto. This wonderfully opulent Baroque palace is one of the few such buildings open to the public in the city, and is the perfect place to learn about how 19th century noblemen lived in Sicily.
Visit of Monreale Cathedral. This 12th century cathedral is an interesting mix of Arab, Byzantine and Norman architecture, one of the few such buildings to incorporate Muslim styles in a Christian house of worship. It is particularly popular for its magnificent mosaics.
After lunch, visit of Palazzo dei Normanni. The origins of the Palazzo dei Normanni go back to the 9th century, when the Saracen Emir of Palermo put down the first foundations. Visit of Capella Palatina, Palermo's top tourist attraction and remains. Built within the Palazzo dei Normanni, the Chapel's interior is quite stunning, with its distinctive Saracen arches and Byzantine mosaics.
Visit of Castello della Zisa an impressive 12th-century construction that was heavily influenced by Moorish architecture. The home of the counts of Notabartolo di Sciara from the late 19th century to the 1950s, the castle eventually fell into disrepair until its restoration in the 1980s. Today, visitors can tour the castle and admire the rooms, which house Islamic art pieces and other local objects. The central hall is especially noteworthy, thanks to some rather fine mosaic decoration.
Return to the hotel and 3 courses Dinner.
Day 3 : visit of Sagesta and Selinunte Selinunte,the largest archaeological park in the Mediterranean area (270 hectares) and for many, the most beautiful and evocative Greek archaological site in Sicily. The town was founded by Greek settlers, in 650 BC, on a splendid hill, close to the sea, protected by 2 rivers. Thanks to its position and the fertile soil, it became rich, exporting its products in all Mediterranean areas.
Weather permitting, sunbathe and swiming on the famous beach Marinella on a place under the Era Temple.
Tour continues to Segesta one of the best preserved and most beautiful of all the Greek archaeological sites in the Mediterranean. Segesta, originally Egesta, ancient city of Sicily, west of the modern city of Palermo. Although tradition attributes its foundation to refugees from Troy and connects it with the legendary hero Aeneas, the city actually was founded by the Elymi, an indigenous people who gradually were absorbed by Greek colonists. In the 5th century BC, Segesta was engaged in frequent strife with the neighboring city of Selinus. The ruins include a large theater and an unfinished temple, one of the best-preserved Doric temples in Sicily.
Return to the hotel and afternoon dedicated to wellbeing and relaxation with a Spa Treatment "SICILIAN HIGH SALT ENERGIZER" (90 minutes), an exclusive treatment based on pure marine salt from Sicily, frees a wonderful sensation of rejuvenation and complete sense of vitality. After each bathing session, enjoy a relaxing body massage.
Day 4 : visit of Marsala and Erice. After breakfast, tour dedicated to the visit of the beautiful area with its vineyards famous all over the world. Visit of the fascinating Erice, a small medieval village with ancient Greek origin, situated on a little hill, where it is possible to enjoy a fantastic view on the Egadi Islands and a nice taste of its typical almonds biscuits. Lunch in a typical local restaurant and drive back to Marsala, which name comes from the arabic "Mars Allah" the Port of God.
Marsala is the home of the world-famous Marsala wine. On the way to Marsala - the Salt Road - visit of the historic saltpan works, where the ancient tradition of harvesting salt from the sea is still practiced. On arrival visit of an historical winery and the opportunity to taste the local wines. The Marsala wine was first popularized in 1770 when an Englishman, John Woodhouse, came ashore from a British ship that had been forced to anchor there during a violent storm. Woodhouse headed for a local tavern, and the rest is history.
In the afternoon, relax and reinvigoration with special treatments for him and for her.
For him: GENTLEMEN FACIAL, start-up treatment designed for men's skin (80 minutes)
For her "VOLCANIC CLAY TREATMENT" relaxation with herbal steam, volcanic clay and a whole body massage. (80 minutes)
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In a lush valley immersed in olive groves and vineyards lies Kempinski Hotel Giardino di Costanza. A refined resort that combines ultimate relaxation with its pools and Beach Club, one of a kind Nakhlah longevity, lifestyle & beauty Spa, children program and a wealth of excursions to discover a countless treasures and traditions.
The Kempinski Hotel Giardino di Costanza is nestled amidst 100,000 sqm of landscaped park. Fountains, gazebos and water features together with endless olive groves and vineyards surround the resort to create a relaxed and peaceful atmosphere.
Spacious guest rooms, including suites, are located on the two storey wings of the building. The harmonious blend of typical Sicilian decor and warm colours is prominent in every room.
There is a place, the most beautiful secret garden in Sicily, the Kempinski Hotel Giardino di Costanza where you too can find your NAKHLA: Beauty, Lifestyle, and Longevity.Daniela Steiner Beauty Spa is located within Nakhlah, an area that covers more than 2,100 sqm including sauna, fully equipped gym and heated indoor pool.
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