Escape to Paradise: Il Borgo Del Principino, Favignana's Hidden Gem
Escape to Paradise: Il Borgo Del Principino, Favignana's Hidden Gem
Escape to Paradise: Il Borgo Del Principino - A Favignana Fiasco (and Triumph!) Review
Okay, so picture this: little ole me, jet-lagged and desperately in need of some serious "dolce vita," arrives on the sun-kissed shores of Favignana, Italy. Expectations? Sky-high. Reality? Well, let's just say Il Borgo Del Principino threw me a few curveballs, and I mean some seriously unexpected ones. Strap in, buttercups, because this review is gonna be a wild ride.
SEO & Metadata (Because, ugh, gotta do it):
- Keywords: Favignana, Il Borgo Del Principino, Sicily, Italy, Hotel Review, Luxury Hotel, Spa, Swimming Pool, Accessible Hotel, Wheelchair Accessible, Wi-Fi, Restaurant, Cleanliness, Safety, Breakfast, Family-Friendly, Romantic Getaway, Honeymoon, Spa, Sauna, Massage, Pool with a View.
- Metadata Description: Honest and humorous review of Il Borgo Del Principino in Favignana, Sicily. Discover insights on accessibility, dining, spa experiences, safety measures, room amenities, and the overall vibe. Get ready for a rollercoaster!
Accessibility: A Mixed Bag (and My First Real Test!)
Let's start with the wheelchair accessibility… yikes. They say they have facilities for disabled guests. And technically, yes, some of it works. The ramps are there, the elevator does exist, but navigating the whole place felt… clunky. My friend, Maria, who uses a wheelchair, had a tougher time than I'd hoped. Some of the pathways are narrow, the doors a bit heavy, and overall, it just wasn't as seamless as advertised. (Accessibility: Mostly, but with some design flaws that need addressing. Consider calling and asking for specifics, like room sizes!).
On-site accessible restaurants / lounges: Um, well, I did find a restaurant to be accessible, but navigating from room to restaurant was a pain. I felt slightly bad to Maria as we shuffled our wheels toward the pool.
Dining, Drinking, and Snacking: The Food Coma Chronicles
Alright, let's talk food, because, hello, Italy! The breakfast buffet? Decent. Definitely not mind-blowing. There was a vegetarian option which was a life-saver, and it was alright. The Asian breakfast was a complete and utter mystery to me. I passed. I preferred the simple stuff. I loved the coffee/tea in the restaurant and the fact that the bottle of water was readily available.
The restaurants themselves were a bit inconsistent. One night, the a la carte was exquisite (Western cuisine in restaurant), the next, it was a little…meh. I absolutely loved the outdoor dining on the terrace with a view. The poolside bar was clutch, especially after a day of exploring the island. (Dining, drinking and snacking: sometimes fantastic, sometimes forgettable. The view always delivers!)
Cleanliness and Safety: Sanitized to the Max (Maybe Too Much?)
They took the whole COVID thing very seriously. Like, bordering-on-obsessive serious. Anti-viral cleaning products, daily disinfection in common areas, staff trained in safety protocols, individually wrapped food options… the list goes on. I actually found myself feeling a little too smothered in hand sanitizer after a while. But hey, better safe than sorry, right? And the hand sanitizer bottles? Everywhere. I was starting to carry one around.
The rooms sanitized between stays and the professional-grade sanitizing services gave me a lot of peace of mind. I mean, I was a little paranoid about the virus before coming, so this was actually a major plus. (Cleanliness and safety: top marks for hygiene, but maybe chill out a little on the sanitizer, guys!)
Things to Do, Ways to Relax: Spa-tastic, but…
Okay, the spa at Il Borgo Del Principino? Now that was something else. (Here's the emotional reaction) I was desperate to relax and unwind, and on this front, they delivered. The spa/sauna was pure bliss, but not before the whole process was a bit of a mess.
I booked a body scrub and a massage… and let me tell you, it was like entering a different dimension. Seriously, the pool with a view was stunning. I spent hours there, just staring off into the horizon, pretending I was a millionaire. The steamroom was perfect. I was a blob of relaxation.
Rooms: A Comfortable Nest With Caveats
The rooms, they're spacious, yes, with things like complimentary tea and free bottled water (always a win). The bathrobes are dreamy. But here's where things get…interesting. My room, at first, seemed idyllic. The air conditioning blasted a little too well. I really like my sleep, so the blackout curtains were a godsend. The internet was reliable, but it was a hassle at times. I had the free Wifi in every room!
The safety/security feature: I loved this. The room was a non-smoking room. The soundproof rooms were a relief.
Services and Conveniences: The Good, The Bad, and the Slightly Bizarre
24-hour front desk: amazing. the concierge was very nice, too.
The on-site event hosting I'm sure is great, but I didn't go. The thought gave me anxiety.
Getting Around: Free parking? Yes, Please!
Blessedly, the car park was free of charge! and, let’s be honest, free parking is always a win. I didn't need to use the airport transfer, but what a nice option to have available!
Final Verdict:
Il Borgo Del Principino? It's a beautiful resort with a few quirks. It definitely caters to those who want a luxurious, relaxing experience. But it's not perfect. It's a place with some room for improvement, especially regarding accessibility. However, the spa is pure magic, the views are incredible, and hey, everyone enjoys a good food coma in Italy anyway. Overall? I'd recommend it, but with reservations. Approach it with an open mind, a sense of humor, and maybe a stash of hand sanitizer (just in case).
Gdańsk Hostel Adventure: Unforgettable Trip & Epic Stays!
Okay, buckle up, buttercup! Because we're heading to Favignana, Italy, that little jewel of the Egadi Islands, and I'm promising you… well, a slightly less polished itinerary than you're used to. Think "organized chaos" with a side of Aperol spritz. Here we go…
FAVIGNANA: OPERATION "GET LOST (AND LOVE IT)" – A MESSY ITINERARY
Day 1: Arrival – The Sea, The Sun, and the Existential Dread of Suitcase Packing
- Morning (Before 10 AM): Arrive in Trapani, Sicily. Fly in. Get lost trying to find the car rental agency (it's ALWAYS farther than you think, and their English, well, it’s… charming). Anecdote Alert: Last time, I ended up haggling with a guy over the price of a miniature Vespa… which I, of course, didn't need. But, I’m working on my Italian. (and I'm very bad at it, still!) My partner, bless her heart, just sighed and said, "Just get the car, love."
- Late Morning (11:30 AM): Ferry from Trapani to Favignana. The sea! The sun! The impending doom of remembering where I put my passport. (Pro-tip: Put it in that little zipped pocket of your carry-on. Or… don’t, and then spend twenty minutes frantically emptying every single pocket like it's a crime scene.) Then, the glorious ferry ride. The turquoise water just begs you to jump in. Don't worry, I won’t… yet.
- Afternoon (1 PM - 4 PM): Check into Il Borgo Del Principino. Ah, the Promised Land! Or at least, that’s what the photos on the website promised. Fingers crossed! (Remember, expectation versus reality is a cruel mistress.) Hopefully, the room is actually like the pictures. I might cry if the view isn't that amazing.
- Late Afternoon (4:30 PM – 7:00 PM): Wander Favignana town. Find the main square. The shops! The gelato! The sheer, overwhelming joy of knowing you’re finally, actually on vacation. I’m already picturing myself with chocolate, pistachio, and… maybe a little espresso. I haven't had my caffeine fix yet, and I am dangerous before coffee.
- Evening (7:30 PM onwards): Dinner at a random trattoria. No pre-booking, no fancy reviews. We're going with the "vibe" of the place. My stomach is doing flips just thinking about the seafood. I am praying for fresh pasta. And maybe, just maybe, I'll attempt speaking Italian. Wish me luck. (I'll need it.) The chances of me saying something incredibly embarrassing are high. Very high.
Day 2: Cala Rossa – And the Quest for the Perfect Beach Photo (with inevitable fail)
- Morning (9 AM): Bike ride! Rent bikes. (Probably those slightly rusty ones that are somehow everywhere on the island, even though they're probably older than me. It's charming, in a way.) Pedal to Cala Rossa. This is the spot. The one everyone raves about. The one that floods my Instagram feed. (I will, of course, add to the flood.)
- Mid-Morning (9:30 AM - 12:00 PM): Cala Rossa. The real deal. Or so I assume. I have an idea of the water in my head, and I am hoping it matches expectations or I will cry. Swimming, sunbathing, and trying to take that perfect picture. The one that makes everyone jealous, the one that says, "I'm happy and carefree and living my best life!" (Spoiler alert: It's a lie. I'll be sweating, fighting with the sun, and probably end up dropping my phone in the sea.)
- Lunch (12:30 PM - 2:00 PM): Quick lunch. Panini? Arancini? Something delicious and easy to eat on the go. Because, let's be honest, I'll be hungry again in about an hour. Constantly.
- Afternoon (2:30 PM - 5:00 PM): Explore other coves. Cala Azzurra, maybe. Or whatever hidden gem we stumble upon. Remember, the goal is to get lost. Physically and emotionally. (Okay, maybe not emotionally lost. That's probably the wine talking.)
- Late Afternoon (5:00 PM onwards): Hit the town again. Let's buy a souvenir. I'm thinking a ceramic plate. I am always on the lookout for useless things. Maybe a bottle of local wine. And a nap. Because all this sun and swimming is exhausting.
- Evening (7:30 PM onwards): Dinner and more wine! Maybe try the local tuna. Or perhaps something vegetarian (because I know I should). Dinner… I would love for a proper seafood pasta experience, so, I will be on the lookout. The sound of the conversations over the tables, the laughs, and the smell of fresh basil. I could stay there forever.
Day 3: The Underwater World and the Agony of Leaving
- Morning (9 AM): Boat trip! Snorkeling! Attempt to be graceful in the water. Probably fail miserably. (Seriously, I'm more of a "splash and shriek" kind of swimmer.) But the colors! The fish! The chance to escape reality for a few hours. I could do this every day, forever.
- Mid-Morning (10 AM- 1:00 PM): Snorkeling and exploring sea caves.
- Afternoon (1:00 PM - 2:30 PM): Lunch on the boat! Hopefully, simple fare. And definitely some local wine. Because, you know, hydration is important. And by hydration I mean drinking the good stuff.
- Late Afternoon (3:00 PM - 5:00 PM): Relax on the boat or be a daredevil and jump into the water!
- Early evening (5:00 PM – 7:00 PM): Back to Il Borgo Del Principino. Pack. (The worst part of vacation, but I'm not leaving half my stuff behind). Try to squeeze in one last gelato (because I haven't had enough).
- Evening (7:30 PM onwards): One last dinner. A final, desperate attempt to savor every single moment. Sigh. The food, the sea, the island. Ugh, I'm not ready to go!
- Night (9:00 PM): One last drink. I'm not going to sleep. I am going to savor every single moment.
- (Midnight): I am probably crying over the imminent departure.
Day 4: Farewell, Favignana – Until Next Time!
- Morning (Whenever the Heck We Can Get Out of Bed): Ferry back to Trapani. The ride back will be filled with memories. And the promise to return. Because, seriously, who wouldn't want to return?
- Late Morning: Head back to the airport.
- Afternoon (Afternoon): Fly home. Probably already planning my next trip back.
Important Notes (Because I'm Forgetful and You Probably Are Too):
- Sunscreen: Seriously. Apply. And reapply. I learned this the hard way. (See: lobster-red sunburnt skin and the mortification of everyone staring.)
- Bug Spray: Bugs exist. Especially at dusk.
- Italian Phrasebook: Don't be like me. Learn a few basic phrases. It'll make everyone smile, even if you butcher the pronunciation.
- Embrace the Mess: Things will go wrong. Things won't go according to plan. That's the beauty of it. Just laugh, roll with it, and enjoy the ride.
- Most importantly: Be spontaneous! Get lost. Take risks. Try new things. And don't forget to breathe.
This is it. My chaotic, real, and hopefully slightly helpful itinerary for Favignana. Enjoy your trip, and try not to judge my terrible Italian too harshly. (And if you see me, feel free to buy me a gelato. I'll probably need it.)
Riomaggiore: Cinque Terre's Hidden Gem? (Stunning Photos!)
Okay, so *Escape to Paradise: Il Borgo Del Principino*... Is it *really* paradise? Because let's be honest, Instagram lies, right?
Alright, deep breaths. The short answer? Maybe. Depends on your definition of 'paradise' and how much you're willing to forgive. Look, the Instagram pics are *stunning*. Like, 'swipe-left-and-question-your-life-choices' stunning. But the reality? Well, let's just say my first impression involved a slightly stressful ferry ride (sea sickness, anyone?) and the distinct aroma of salty air and, let's be blunt, diesel. Not exactly 'angels singing' stuff.
But then... then you arrive. You're in this utterly charming little *borgo*, a village, tucked away. And, yes, it *does* feel special. The buildings are all this gorgeous, sun-baked stone, the bougainvillea is practically exploding with colour, and the air? The air is *different*. Cleaner, fresher. Like, my lungs actually sighed with relief. So, is it paradise? It's paradise *with* a healthy dose of reality. Think rough-around-the-edges beauty, not a perfectly manicured garden. And I’m totally okay with that.
Speaking of arriving... Getting to Favignana sounds like a logistical nightmare. What's the *actual* deal? Do I need to charter a private helicopter? (Because honestly, my bank account is already weeping.)
Oh, the journey. It’s part of the *adventure*. Look, a private helicopter would be *amazing*. But, like you, I’m not exactly dripping in gold. The practical steps? Fly into Trapani or Palermo (Palermo is bigger, more flights, but Trapani is closer). Then... the ferry.
Honestly? The ferry is fine. It’s not the glamorous, champagne-soaked experience of a private yacht. You cram onto the boat with everyone else, the wind whips your hair, and you kind of hope your suitcase doesn't get tossed overboard. (Speaking from experience? Maybe.) But, the anticipation is part of it. And seriously, the views as you approach Favignana? Worth the ticket price alone. Just… take some Dramamine. Trust me on that one. And pack something warm – the wind can be brutal on the crossing. And, bonus, the whole island is pretty walkable or bike-friendly, so no need to stress too much about transportation once you *get* there. Whew.
Accommodation specifics, please! What's it like *actually* staying in one of Il Borgo Del Principino's apartments? Because 'rustic charm' can sometimes translate to 'leaky roof and questionable plumbing,' right?
Okay, let's get real. I *hate* the word "rustic." It often means "old and needs a revamp." And yes, there's a whisper of that here. But, crucially, it's charm *with* a capital C. My apartment? It was beautiful! Thick stone walls that kept the sun at bay (absolute godsend!), a little kitchen (where I, shockingly, managed to cook a meal), and a balcony overlooking, well, *everything*. The view was breathtaking.
However, (and this is the honesty bit): our power went out a few times. And the wifi? Let's just say it's more "wishful thinking" than reliable signal. And don't expect a jacuzzi or a state-of-the-art sound system. But, in the grand scheme of things, it's totally worth it. You’re immersed in the local atmosphere, you feel like you’re truly *living* in Favignana, not just visiting. And you know what? The lack of constant connectivity was actually… liberating. Seriously, try it. Embrace the digital detox. Bring a good book, and enjoy the silence. It’s magical.
Food. The most important question. What's the dining situation like? Because I've got a serious appetite for deliciousness. Tell me everything about food!
Right. Food. My *jam*. First of all: fresh seafood. Oh. My. God. The fish, the prawns, the *everything* that comes from the sea? It's spectacular. And the pasta! Simple, classic Italian cooking with the freshest ingredients.
Okay, my *best* food memory? There's this tiny little trattoria (can't recall the name, but it's impossible to miss, it’s near the harbour) and they had this tuna, *ventresca* (belly), that was seared to perfection. It was practically melting in my mouth. And the local wine? The perfect accompaniment. I swear I could have eaten that dish for three days straight. We also (and I mean *we*, as in, my husband dragged me there) went to a place on the other side of the island where the sunset framed the whole meal. Breathtaking. Food-wise, I'd give it a 9/10, but the view? 11/10. Just... plan to book ahead for dinners and *expect* things to be a little slower than you’re used to. It's *la dolce vita* – embrace it! And bring your appetite. Because honestly, you're going to need it.
Okay, so assuming I'm sold and I'm going... What's the one thing I *absolutely must* do while I'm there? Don't hold back!
This is a tough one. Because there are the obvious things: swimming in turquoise waters (Cala Rossa, duh!), exploring the caves, cycling around the island (though, the hills can be *brutal*). But, if I *absolutely had to* pick one thing?
**Rent a boat, and spend the day exploring the smaller islands around Favignana**. Seriously. You will *not* regret it. We did, on a whim really. The boat was small, a little beat-up, and the engine made a noise that sounded perpetually worried. But it was ours! We packed some sandwiches, some wine (naturally), and a snorkel. We found these secluded coves, spots of pure, shimmering perfection, that were only accessible by boat. Sun, sea, solitude... It was breathtaking. The water was so clear, we could see the sea bed. I saw more fish than I knew existed. It was, hands down, the best day of my trip. And, yes, I even overcame my fear of deep water (a little bit). Rent a boat. Do it. You'll thank me later.
What's a realistic budget for a trip to Il Borgo Del Principino? Is it as expensive as it looks?
Let’s get real. Italy, in general, isn’t the cheapest destination. Il Borgo Del Principino has a certain level of… *chic*. But it's doable.
Accommodation varies, of course, depending on the season and the apartment.980 Valencia: Unveiling Spain's Hidden Gem (You Won't Believe This!)
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