Hotel Signum

An Aeolian borgo in Malfa

The Signum is in Malfa, on the north coast of Salina, the green island of the Aeolians. It is not one building but a small restored borgo: Aeolian cottages with whitewashed walls in pink and ochre tones, terraces covered in bougainvillea and gardens, with views of the sea and, in the distance, Panarea and Stromboli. It is run by the Caruso family, and the Michelin guide gives it its Key, the distinction it reserves for hotels.

The rooms

Each room is named after a plant on the island, such as Acanto, Malva, Ginestra or Assenzio, and has its own style, with antique furniture, designer objects and carefully chosen fabrics. There are five types: Superior, quieter and facing the garden; Deluxe, with sea views; Executive, in a more secluded part of the estate; Suite, and Suite in Villa, with the best views. All have air conditioning, a ceiling fan, television, wifi, telephone, minibar, safe and room service.

Restaurant and spa

The restaurant is run by chef Martina Caruso, with a Michelin star. She works with the kitchen garden, ancient grains, island oil and local fish. You eat on three terraces: the main one, under a pergola, from breakfast to dinner; a garden veranda in spring and autumn, and the bar terrace, for an aperitivo facing Panarea and Stromboli. There is also a bistrot with simpler dishes.

The spa follows the model of the old Aeolian baths: Sicilian tiles, antique utensils and thalassotherapy tubs with geothermal water in a lemon grove. They offer massages, treatments and a night session, the Signum Night SPA.

Getting there

Malfa is about 7 km from Salina's two harbours, Santa Marina and Rinella, where the hydrofoils from Milazzo stop. You get there from the harbour by taxi; if you give your arrival time, the hotel books it. They also arrange private transfers from Catania and Palermo airports to the port of Milazzo, with the ticket for the first hydrofoil included. To avoid missing the last boat, they recommend landing in Catania before 15:00, and for the return, not booking flights before 11:00. There is also a heliport in Malfa.