Owned by the Planeta family wine producer, this modern, purpose-built hotel stands amid vines and olive trees in south-west Sicily. Simply decorated bedrooms, most with their own terrace and herb garden 'make this a peaceful place to stay. Public rooms are more impressive, notably the dining room which leads on to a large, attractive dining terrace. Service could be slightly impersonal at times, but the breakfasts are good, especially the sweet items, and dinner is excellent, with freshly cooked local provenance. But no change of menu during our four-day stay'. Meals are served at one large table or on the terrace. Nearby are golf, sailing, windsurfing and kite surfing, canoeing, tennis and horse-riding. (Phillip Gill)