We were greeted by a magnificent building that was once known as the “Ponte Umbertino”, the bridge connecting the island of Ortigia with the rest of Sicily, Siracusa. Palazzo Delle Poste. Formerly a post office and now part of Marriott’s Autograph Collection Hotel, the former building near the water welcomes its visitors with a beautiful courtyard in an atrium. It features Medieval columns, Italian marble floors, and a gorgeous sun-filled court. Outside, fishing boat gently bobble up and down in the calm Ionian Sea.
After arriving, guests can enjoy an aperitivo in Champagnetta’s lounge bar, located in the center of the atrium. Then, they can explore the historic centre on foot.
The hotel’s location is ideal for starting and finishing a beautiful walk around the island. Our morning routine quickly evolved into a jog on the scenic two-mile pathway that follows the rugged coast. All of Ortigia’s attractions can be reached by walking, as the island is just over half a kilometer long and less than a meter wide. We left the island and walked the Neapolis Archeological Park. SiracusaIt took only 45 minutes. After spending a day wandering the narrow streets of Ortigia, and tasting some of its local delicacies Sicily’s finest culinary delights—from artisanal gelato to arguably the best pizza I’ve ever eaten—the Ortea Palace Hotel offers a luxurious retreat to relax and recharge.
My review of Ortea Palace Hotel, Sicily, Autograph Collection.
Ortea Palace Hotel
- Champagnetta is located in the grandiose hotel lobby.
- All local attractions are within walking distance from the hotel.
- The spa seamlessly combines Italian classic architecture with modern amenities.
The Rooms
The Ortea Palace has 75 rooms and suites that offer elegant and comfortable accommodation. There are many options available depending on your needs and budget. The hotel is located on the water, so many of its suites offer stunning views. Rooms above the atrium are also available with an internal view.
The top floor suite we stayed in was a special suite that offered a double-aspect view of the Ionian Sea, as well as a wrap-around furnished balcony. It was the perfect place to relax with a glass or two of Sicilian wines, while the sun set behind the hills of Siracusa. A luxurious touch was added by the marble bathroom with Diptyque products in the shower and bathtub.
Food and Drink
Predrag Vuckovic/Ortea Palace Hotel Sicily Autograph Collection
It’s not surprising that the courtyard is the heart of the Ortea Palace. The area has been created to be a place for socializing and entertainment. Two of the main dining and drinking venues of the hotel are situated here at the opposite ends of the Atrium. Il Cortile, the hotel’s Mediterranean-inspired restaurant, serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Champagnetta is a chic art-deco bar located on the marble floor. While you enjoy the classic Italian cocktail list, the live pianist entertains you with his piano playing.
Incanto’s rooftop fine dining restaurant offers a wide range of Mediterranean cuisine with breathtaking views from the terrace. This is an ideal place for any special event or private gathering.
The Spa
Ortea Palace Hotel, Sicily, Autograph Collection
The spa at the hotel has been designed in a classic Italian style, while still meeting the expectations of modern guests staying in a five-star establishment. The ornate, Roman-style swimming pool features a small hydrotherapy section. Other facilities include a Turkish Bath, an oversized glass Sauna, a 24-hour Gym, Multi-sensory Showers and the Hotel’s Latest Experience. La Nuvola (the Cloud), a unique treatment that uses sound, motion, and light to give the impression of floating on a cloud.
Accessibility, Sustainability and Sustainability
The hotel was designed with accessibility as a priority. It has accessible bathrooms and bedrooms, as well. The concierge at the hotel can help guests with personalized assistance, accessible transportation and assisted check-in.
To reduce energy consumption, the hotel utilizes energy-efficient lighting, appliances and building systems. Marriott International also encourages the hotel to compost food waste and implement low-flow fixture systems.
Location
The best way to discover Ortigia, given the small island’s size and the fact that some areas are not accessible by car, is to walk. You can walk to the center of the city, where you will find many places for shopping, eating, drinking and historical sights such as churches, piazzas and fountains. Should you decide to drive to Ortigia, the Ortea Palace Hotel does offer valet private parking for €40 per night, including the option to charge electric vehicles for an additional fee.
The Best Value for Your Stay
Marriott Bonvoy Points can be redeemed at the Ortea Palace Hotel, an Autograph Collection Hotel, as part of Marriott’s portfolio.
Get special rates on nights at Ortea Palace Hotel, Sicily, Autograph Collection start from €300 (about $340 USD).
Each hotel reviewed by T+L is chosen based on its alignment with our values. core values.
