The BBC’s new series, ‘Sicily Unpacked’, coincides with the launch of Sunvil Discovery’s exciting new programme featuring elegant city hotels and traditional Sicilian fattorias and agriturismo properties
Airing in January and hosted by Italian chef, Giorgio Locatelli, and art historian, Andrew Graham-Dixon, BBC2’s new Sicily Unpacked series introduces viewers to the history, art, culture and gastronomy of this well-loved Mediterranean island.
Sunvil Discovery’s extensive Sicily programme unlocks the secrets of this culturally complex land. Offering trips to the three distinct corners of the island, Sunvil provides an authentic taste of Sicily, with stays available in traditional agriturismo properties – converted farmhouses which produce their own organic wares, including olive oil, wine, cheese and cured meats.
The first episode, airing tonight on BBC2 at 9pm, is based in Palermo and explores the multitude of cultural influences on the art and architecture of this ancient city. The cultured duo pay a visit to the 12th century Zisa’s Palace (built under the influence of the Arab world), plus the gilded Palestine chapel, and round off their tour with a stop at the UNESCO protected Cuticchio Puppet Theatre. Giorgio Locatelli also takes the opportunity to sample the city’s signature dish – pasta with fresh sardines – and introduces viewers to his favourite restaurant in nearby Porto Paolo, where there is no menu and guests are served whatever is best that day.
What’s hot in Palermo?
Centrally located in the historic centre of the city on the busy Corso Vittorio Emanuele, the Hotel Centrale Palace – a remodelled, 17th century stately home – is the perfect base for any tour of Palermo. Three nights’ B&B cost from £369 pp (two sharing), including flights (Gatwick) and private transfers. Call Sunvil Discovery on 020 8758 4722 (http://www.sunvil.co.uk)
