Golf Business News – Picciolo unveils upgraded hotel and golf course
The golfing experience at Picciolo Etna Golf Resort & SPA in Sicily is set to reach new heights this summer following a number of course improvements and the opening of the renovated hotel and spa as part of an €18 million investment in the venue.
The resort joined the Hilton portfolio as part of the Curio Collection by Hilton brand following the extensive renovations.
A range of upgrades have been made to the resort’s 18-hole championship course, including a complete renovation of all of the bunkers and tee boxes, further enhancing the dramatic par-72 layout, which first opened in 1989 and was designed by Luigi Rota Caremoli.
Characterised by tight fairways, thrilling elevation changes and stunning views of the surrounding countryside, including the majestic Mount Etna, Picciolo is the oldest course in Sicily. A regular tour stop, it hosted four events on the Ladies European Tour between 1995 and 2011, and Sicilian Seniors Open in 2010. It addition to the superb golf course, Picciolo also boasts a driving range, two chipping and bunker areas, and a practice putting green.
The spacious clubhouse boasts a stunning terrace and is the perfect spot to enjoy lunch served from Il Palmento restaurant with à la carte Sicilian specialities such as (pasta with aubergine, tomato sauce and salted ricotta) or Caponata (pasta cooked with sardines, fennel, pine kernels and sultanas).
The Picciolo experience doesn’t stop when golfers step off the 18th green, with 100 ensuite rooms set in an historic manor and fine dining awaiting at La Ghiandaia restaurant in the evenings. A comprehensive line-up of leisure amenities includes two outdoor pools, complete with sun loungers and snugs, and a bar for snacks or a sunset aperitif. For indoor relaxation, the spa centre offers a heated pool with hydromassage, sauna and steam room. The citrus fruits of Sicily are key elements for guests to experience through spa offerings, incorporated into treatments and massages.
Sicilian-born brothers Andrea and Francesco Scrofani and Mario Paoluzi, owners at Picciolo Etna Golf Resort & SPA, commented: “Picciolo is proud to offer guests a truly special experience with our spectacular and highly unique golf course at its heart. As a result of our renovations we now have first-class facilities to match our local gastronomic delights and cultural excursions against the backdrop of Mount Etna. This is an exciting time for the resort following the extensive refurbishment and we are excited to partner with the Curio Collection by Hilton brand to bring a fresh, new offering to our guests.”
B&B rates at Picciolo Etna Golf Resort start from €200 per night, based on two people staying in a king room. For more information visit stories.hilton.com.