Hotel Raya

Clinging to the hillside of the small but perfectly formed island of Panarea is Hotel Raya, a collection of whitewashed buildings befitting of the surroundings.

Surrounded by colourful bougainvillea and olive and lemon trees and with views across the sparkling waters towards the conical island of Stromboli, this is Italian countryside at its best. The 30 rooms are bright and airy, most of them decorated in blue and white and affording great views out across the sea.

The restaurant believes in simple food using the best organic ingredients and Panarea is not short of quality produce. The wine list is as delightful as the menu and features Sicilian favourites as well as labels from across the country. In the warmer months guests can dine al fresco and on particularly clear days, Mt Etna is visible in the distance.

There is a real focus on excising in harmony with the surroundings and one of the real highlights of the hotel is the geothermal pool with water that is naturally heated from the ground.