Picciolo Etna Golf Resort & Spa, Curio Collection by Hilton

Location: Sicily, Italy | Board basis: B&B / Half-board | On-site championship golf

Set high on the slopes of Mount Etna, Il Picciolo Etna Golf Resort & Spa offers a truly unique golf experience in one of Italy's most dramatic natural landscapes. Surrounded by lava stone walls, vineyards, and native woodland, this elegant five-star resort combines championship golf, refined Sicilian hospitality, and panoramic views stretching across the countryside to the Ionian Sea.

With the island's first 18-hole championship golf course, Il Picciolo is a must-play destination for golfers seeking something different, making it ideal for luxury golf holidays in Sicily.

Golf at Il Picciolo Golf Club

Designer: Luigi Rota Caremoli | Par: 72 | Opened: 1989

Ranked the no.3 course in Sicily by Top 100 Golf Courses

The Picciolo Golf Course is a spectacular parkland-style course carved through ancient lava flows and rolling volcanic terrain. Tree-lined fairways, natural elevation changes, and cooling mountain breezes provide a strategic yet enjoyable challenge. Its altitude and unique landscape deliver exceptional playing conditions and striking scenery throughout the year.

Travel tip: Morning tee times offer the clearest views of Mount Etna before cloud cover builds later in the day.

Accommodation

The resort features a collection of elegant rooms and suites, housed within traditional Sicilian-style buildings that blend seamlessly into the surrounding landscape. Interiors are refined and comfortable, with many rooms offering views of the golf course, vineyards, or Mount Etna itself.

Room features include air-conditioning, flat-screen TV, minibar, complimentary Wi-Fi, and well-appointed bathrooms, ensuring a relaxed stay after a day on the course.

Restaurant & Bars

Guests can enjoy a range of dining options during their stay, all celebrating the flavours of Sicily, with a focus on seasonal, locally sourced ingredients:

• La Ghiandaia Restaurant – Serves refined Sicilian and Mediterranean cuisine in an elegant setting
• Clubhouse Bar – Ideal for post-round drinks and light meals overlooking the course

The resort’s peaceful atmosphere makes dining here a highlight of the stay, especially when paired with local wines from nearby Etna vineyards.

Spa & Leisure

The Il Picciolo Spa provides a tranquil retreat, perfect for unwinding after golf:

• Indoor swimming pool
• Sauna and steam room
• Jacuzzi
• Massage and beauty treatments
• Fitness area

Outdoor terraces and landscaped grounds offer additional space to relax and take in the mountain surroundings.

Location

Located in Castiglione di Sicilia, the resort sits between Mount Etna and the Ionian coastline, offering easy access to both natural and cultural highlights. Catania Airport is approximately 1 hour away, making the resort accessible for both short breaks and longer stays.

Nearby attractions include Taormina, Alcantara Gorge, Etna wineries, and historic hilltop villages.

Travel tip: Combine your golf break with a visit to Taormina for coastal views, historic sites, and excellent dining.

Why choose Il Picciolo Etna Golf Resort for your Sicily golf holiday?

• Sicily’s only 18-hole championship golf course
• Unique Mount Etna setting
• Cooler playing conditions at altitude
• Authentic Sicilian cuisine and wines
• Peaceful, uncrowded resort atmosphere
• Ideal for couples and experienced golfers