Cala Rossa Lodge

Ancestral Beauty Restored in Favignana

On their 1992 honeymoon, Antonia and her husband Paolo discovered the butterfly-shaped island of Favignana, and a fascination was sparked. “It was our Ithaca,” says Antonia. Later, they came upon a ruin, and the couple embarked on their Odyssey.

Antonia and Paolo restored the ruin to its ancient glory, preserving the structure and refinishing many original details, like the golden white tuff stone exterior. With the modern addition of a loggia, today, you can watch the sun drop over 9000m of Mediterranean scrubland that stretches to the Caribbean-blue sea up to Marsala.

Inside this unique vacation rental in Favignana, a wall was opened between the kitchen and living area, letting light cast through to the large windows. A minimalist bedroom has a color-blocked, Rothko-esque accent wall.

The nearby bay, also called Cala Rossa, inherits its name from a famous battle between the Romans and Carthaginians. Today, it is known for its turquoise waters and jagged, sculptural cliffs.

Experience this stunning revival of a crumbling relic, worthy of love and respect.

We love that there is no need for art on the walls at Cala Rossa, as the view from each window resembles a Renoir. The outdoor opportunities spill from the doors, with a patio off the bedroom that leads into a charming dining area. Also equipped with an open kitchen and living room, this lovingly-restored home is ideal for a couple or small family.

However, you’ll want to make it a point to get out, as Favignana is the largest island in the Egadi archipelago, and many argue that it is the most beautiful. Luckily, with the beach within 300m, this vacation rental in Favignana gives you the perfect base to explore. 

ADDITIONAL FEATURES

This home has air conditioning, internet and cable TV. It is equipped with a washer, and shampoo is provided. Free parking on premises, with wheelchair accessibility. Safety features are a smoke detector, fire extinguisher and a first-aid kit.

AROUND

Located in the Cala Rossa region of Favignana off the northwestern coast of Sicily, the area is known for its calcareous rock cliffs and bevy of coves, and has a long history of tuff stone quarrying and tuna fishing. It’s a 30-minute ferry journey from Trapani.

Bicycling is a popular way to see the island, with its flat roads and low traffic, while snorkeling offers a kaleidoscopic display of the life aquatic.  

Favignana cuisine is an ode to the sea and showcase of Mediterranean flavor: try a tuna steak or bottarga (dried and cured tuna roe), or a pane cunzatu (a Sicilian-style sandwich with seasoned bread, tomatoes, mozzarella and basil.)

LOCATION

Favignana, Italy. Nearest Airport: Trapani (7 miles)

BEST TIME TO VISIT: Spring, Summer, Fall