Our latest shoot took us to the beautiful, secluded island of Pantelleria. Located in the Mediterranean, between Sicily and Tunisia, the island carries a certain lightness of life that only places with historical depth can offer.
Between the ancient Punic and Roman architecture, the colorful flora and the volcanic rocks, Pantelleria fed us amazingly, both literally and figuratively. Enjoy our guide to one of the Mediterranean’s best kept secrets.
Mornings at Tenuta Borgia
An incredible complex of seven ancient dammusi, restored to preserve the charm of these houses built in the traditional drywall technique. Nestled in a twelve hectares large park, you might recognise our dream nest from Luca Guadagnino’s “A bigger splash”.
Walk to Nika
Nothing like a walk to start the day, particularly when the reward is a dip in one of the Island’s most hidden bays. Tucked between Scauri et Punta Molinazzo, Nika’s dramatic cliffs and stones contrast with crystal clear waters. About 20 minutes on foot from Tenuta Borgia (or a rocky but fun 5mns drive).
Drive to Scauri
We’re always here for a scenic coastal drive. There’s something about being behind the wheel, windows down that just hits the spot for us. Especially when you get to explore an island made up of only 7000 people, made of volcanic rocks and incredibly resilient flora.
PS: you might spot prickly pears, a bright variety of cacti, and one of the key ingredients in our Sunset Serum.
Lunch at La Vela
We love a drive but we also never say no to lunch. La Vela stole our hearts with its charming looks and fresh produce. We’ll admit, we went every.single.day and already miss it. Order the Gambero Rosso, an island’s speciality and don’t forget to treat yourself to an espresso with a view for dessert.
Afternoon boat ride
A boat ride to remember. While we probably don’t have to sell you on the idea, we can tell you where to rent. At the heart of the Scauri port, MA.GIA RENT is where you want to go. Whether you know how to drive a boat, or need a skipper, they’ve got you covered. Just like we’ve got you covered for sunscreen that you of course remembered to pack and reapply every two hours!
Apero at U Friscu
Sun kissed skin, sea sprayed hair, you got yourself the perfect look for an apero at U Friscu.
This picturesque little bar never seems to close, which we’re not mad about. If you’re feeling peckish, they serve delicious pizzas, and for those with a sweet tooth brace yourself because they have a Ricotta croissant. Yep, you read that right. You’re welcome ;)
Dinner at Il Principe E Il Pirata Di Raffaele F.
Is there a better place to dine than at Giorgio Armani’s favorite restaurant ? We’re not sure. What we do know is that between the quality of produce, the impeccable service, the blue terrace overlooking the sea and the ceramic crockery, we might just call it our favorite restaurant too.
PS: if you’re feeling like a more low key dinner experience, Trattoria Di Pina is a wonderful choice. They perfectly embody the mixed influence of Sicilian and Northern african cultures through culinary experiences such as fish couscous. A discovery we won’t forget.
Sunset with a view at Balata dei Turchi
When it comes to sunsets, Pantelleria once again doesn’t disappoint. Balata dei Turchi is a spectacular view point from a 300m cliff, revealing a natural cove created by lava flow. This place will quite simply take your breath away. During peak summer, it gets very crowded, so we were lucky to enjoy it at a calmer season.
We could go on and on about this place, where the Good Life takes another dimension, with better (sun) care on the horizon.
Written by Eugénie Derez
Photography by Raf Maes
LE RUB © 2024
