"This oh-so-pretty island off the west coast of Sicily is a well-kept secret. Apart from the scorching summer months when the Italians flock there, the pace remains gloriously slow. Spend days beneath a default blue sky, catching the breeze as you cycle from bay to stunning bay, with that crystal clear, turquoise sea glistening beside you. Sigh. Il Baglio sull’Acqua is perfectly placed for such frolicking. Spectacular beaches are within easy reach and the bustling port town is even closer. Sister to nearby Casalmare, this peaceful 19th-century retreat delivers on design. Each of its 10 rooms has been styled with Sicilian flair. Think soothing neutral tones, wood-beamed ceilings and checkerboard floors. Watch the sea or surrounding olive groves from your window or private terrace. Outside, an impressive pool glimmers from the lush green gardens. The chef serves up traditional Sicilian greats on the candlelit terrace. Or sip a chilled Campari in the tranquil Arabian-styled courtyard. There’s still time to discover Favignana before word gets out. Just keep it under your (sun) hat. Highs Unpretentious, smartly designed rooms with some Moroccan flareUtterly dreamy pool in a magical garden settingTop-notch location, with sea views and easy access to the island’s best bitsThe food served in the restaurant is reportedly deliciousWe hear the senior management is super-friendly and helpful Lows Word is the restaurant service can be a little slowIt’s not the easiest place to reach, but the 30-minute ferry crossings to the island are frequentReception closes at night so don’t expect round-the-clock serviceIt doesn’t come cheap, but places like this rarely do7 night minimum stay in August preferred; shorter stays can be arranged depending on availability" - Handpicked by our hotel experts