Perched above the vineyards of Salina in the Aeolian Islands, this exclusive 5-star resort offers panoramic sea views, a celebrated Malvasia wine cellar, and an exquisite restaurant specialising in island cuisine.
Capofaro Resort is a 5-star Relais & Châteaux property perched above the vineyards of Salina, one of the Aeolian Islands off Sicily's north-eastern coast. The resort occupies a spectacular elevated position above the lighthouse at the northern tip of Santa Marina Salina, surrounded by its own Malvasia grape vineyards with panoramic views across the Aeolian archipelago — encompassing Lipari, Stromboli, and on clear days the distant Calabrian coast.
The property comprises 20 sea-view rooms and suites distributed across whitewashed Mediterranean pavilions set within the working vineyard estate. Interiors are serene and pared back — white walls, natural linen, terracotta tiles, and handmade Sicilian ceramics — in deliberate contrast to the drama of the volcanic island landscape outside. Most rooms include private terraces overlooking the vines and the sea. The resort is seasonal, operating from spring to late autumn, and attracts a discerning clientele of guests who prize quiet, natural beauty, and exceptional wine.
Malvasia delle Lipari DOC wine is the estate's central offering: the Tasca d'Almerita family's Capofaro vineyards produce one of Sicily's most distinctive wines, a naturally sweet passito made from sun-dried Malvasia grapes grown in the volcanic Aeolian soil. Wine tastings and vineyard walks are a central part of the guest experience, and the resort's restaurant incorporates Malvasia into both savoury and sweet preparations. The restaurant menu celebrates island cuisine with fresh-caught fish, Aeolian capers, aubergine, wild fennel, and locally produced ricotta salata.
A pool with a sweeping sea panorama provides the main outdoor relaxation space. Spa treatments are offered, incorporating island ingredients and sea minerals. Guests can reach Salina by hydrofoil from Milazzo on the Sicilian mainland (approximately 75 minutes) or by connections from Messina and other Aeolian Islands.
Amenities
- pool
- winery
- restaurant
- wifi
- sea-view terraces
- spa treatments
Location
Via Faro 3, 98050 Santa Marina Salina ME
38.5578, 14.8693 View on map
Highlights
- Relais & Châteaux resort within a working Malvasia delle Lipari DOC vineyard above Salina's lighthouse
- Panoramic Aeolian archipelago views from rooms, pool, and terraces including Lipari and Stromboli
- Estate Malvasia passito wine tastings and vineyard walks as a core part of the guest experience
- Island restaurant featuring fresh Aeolian fish, capers, aubergine, and locally produced ricotta salata
- One of the most remote and exclusive luxury properties accessible from mainland Sicily
Tips for visiting
- Book the hydrofoil from Milazzo to Salina at least a day in advance in peak summer; the service fills quickly.
- The resort is seasonal (typically April to October); verify exact opening dates before planning a visit.
- Pack light — the island lifestyle and the resort's pared-back aesthetic suit minimal luggage; there is no formal dress code.
- Evening sunset from the resort terrace over the Aeolian Islands is exceptional; allow time to sit with a glass of Malvasia.
- Renting a scooter on Salina allows guests to explore the village of Pollara (made famous in the film Il Postino) and the island's volcanic peaks.
Accessibility
Capofaro Resort is set on a sloped vineyard estate with terraced outdoor areas and steps between levels. The Mediterranean pavilion-style buildings are largely single-storey, but the sloped terrain limits wheelchair mobility across parts of the estate. Guests with mobility requirements should contact the resort in advance to discuss room selection and access conditions before booking.
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Frequently asked questions
How do guests reach Capofaro Resort on Salina?
Salina is accessible by hydrofoil from Milazzo on the Sicilian mainland, a journey of approximately 75 minutes. Connections are also available from Messina and other Aeolian Islands. From the Santa Marina Salina port, the resort is a short taxi or vehicle transfer away.
Is Capofaro Resort open year-round?
The resort is seasonal, typically operating from April or May through October. Exact opening dates vary annually; guests should check directly with the property to confirm the current season.
Does the resort have a full-service spa?
Capofaro offers spa treatment services, but it is not a large full-service spa hotel. The focus is on outdoor living, vineyard experiences, and the natural environment of the island rather than extensive indoor wellness facilities.
Can guests visit the Capofaro winery without staying at the resort?
The Capofaro vineyards are part of the Tasca d'Almerita estate. Wine tastings for non-resident visitors may be available; guests should contact the property in advance to enquire about current arrangements.
What other Aeolian Islands can be visited from Salina?
Regular ferry and hydrofoil services connect Salina to Lipari, Vulcano, Stromboli, Panarea, Filicudi, and Alicudi. Day trips to Stromboli to observe the active volcanic eruptions at close range are especially popular with guests.