Club Med Cefalù, the newest star of Club Med’s Exclusive Collection opened its doors this month, after undergoing a complete transformation of the original resort that helped put Cefalù on the map during it’s 50 year reign from 1956 to 2006.
Eleven years in the making, Club Med’s first 5-Trident resort in Europe is the latest high-end retreat in the group’s property portfolio, but maintains all the elements that make Club Med what it is. The all-inclusive formula has a distinctly different tone at Cefalù, not least of all because of its absolutely stunning location.
Located just over an hour north of Palermo airport and nestled neatly into rocky cliffs overlooking the charming historical town of Cefalù, the 14-hectare village-style resort sits naturally into the lush environment thanks to the adoption of local building traditions, and the extensive use of local wood and stone.
Beautiful historical elements of the resort have been preserved and modernised to create an enchanting ambience within the village, most notably the Palazzo Gourmet Lounge where guests can enjoy light all day dining, or simply drinks in the bar.
Two other restaurants deliver spectacular views over the sparkling emerald Mediterranean. The main dining room La Rocca overlooks Cefalù and the imposing rock that towers above the little town. On the other side of the resort La Riva Beach Restaurant perched on the edge of the sea completes the deluxe dining experiences Club Med Cefalù offers its guests.
The appointment of celebrated Michelin star chef Andrea Berton establishes Club Med’s commitment to provide fine-dining experiences throughout the resort. Berton is the gastronomic architect of all three restaurants, beautifully reinterpreting local authentic dishes with a modern twist.
As part of Club Med’s aim to ensure their guests feel at home, rooms are light and surprisingly spacious, come with a coffee machine, high quality deluxe bedding and Carita amenities, and many of the public spaces throughout the village are cleverly designed to provide intimate areas for a more private experience.
The Club Med model for extending multiple experiences for ‘active vacationers’ has not been lost at all. A variety of quality in-house entertainment each night conveys a festive feel for those that want it. A well-equipped gym with first-rate equipment and a full programme of fitness classes will most certainly keep the health conscious happy and occupied.
The dedicated water sports centre is located in one of the most idyllic spots in the village and features the latest technology in the form of very cool electronic surfboards. Guests can also learn stand up paddle boarding, take a paddleboard yoga class, or try their hand at kite surfing, sailing, canoeing or kayaking. Other sport programs include archery, tennis, football, volleyball, hiking, snorkelling and diving.
Two beautifully appointed pool areas, including a naturally filtered zen pool, as well as swimming and sunbathing spaces dotted along the sea are serviced by their own bars and provide plenty of options to soak up the beautiful surroundings. And, the Carita Paris wellness Centre offers personalised beauty and relaxation services at an additional cost for those wanting a little pampering during their stay.
If all of that isn’t enough, the resort’s dedicated concierge will tailor excursions of the local area for an additional charge, and can incorporate drive-yourself tours in one of the resorts fleet of Fiat 500s. The town of Cefalù is only fifteen minutes walk or five minutes drive from the resort, and has an unassuming charm steeped in history. •
Photography by Toni Atkinson and Club Med. See more spectacular photos of this stunning property and its surrounds below.
TRAVEL FACTS
- More information: clubmed.com.au
