In the heart of Malfa, the authentic heart of the island of Salina, Hotel Signum is the epitome of Aeolian hospitality: a sprawling hamlet of pastel-colored houses, nestled in a lush garden of lemon trees, bougainvillea, and jasmine, with a sheer view of the sea.

History: The Caruso Family, Pioneers of Aeolian Hospitality

Signum was founded in 1988 by Clara Rametta and Michele Caruso, who chose the Latin word “sign” or “imprint” as the hotel’s name, signifying their commitment to creating a charming retreat that would capture the island’s true spirit and leave a lasting impression.

Today, their children, Luca, general manager, and Martina, a Michelin-starred chef since 2016, continue to write the history of what is considered one of the most chic and authentic addresses in the Mediterranean. It’s no coincidence that the hotel is part of the prestigious La Sicilia di Ulisse, an association that brings together Sicily’s finest gourmet restaurants, charming hotels, and renowned wineries.

Hospitality: A Charming Hamlet

This stunning resort is the result of the renovation of old fishermen’s and farmers’ houses dating back to the 19th century. The Caruso family has retained their distinctive features, from the cement tile floors to the period dark wood furniture, wrought iron details, and local ceramics.

After entering the reception area, the beautiful terrace opens up, home to the Michelin-starred restaurant. To the left, the lounge houses the charming indoor bar, built on an old wine press room, and the covered dining room, a cathedral-style veranda with blue and yellow decorations. A little further on, another panoramic terrace hosts the cocktail bar, the bistro, and the breakfast room, with a breathtaking view of Panarea and Stromboli.

The Rooms and the Infinity Pool

Each of the 30 rooms is unique, furnished with antiques and natural fabrics, some with private terraces and views of the island’s extinct volcanoes, the “Twins,” or the deep blue of the Aeolian Islands.

The Signum’s infinity pool is legendary. Overlooking the sea, it offers an exceptional view, one of the most iconic in the Aeolian Islands, perhaps paired with a drink from the cocktail bar, perfect for an Aeolian Negroni at sunset.

The Signum Restaurant: Martina Caruso’s Star

The beating heart of the hotel is its restaurant, where Chef Martina Caruso, who earned her first Michelin star at just 25 years old, marking a historic moment for the island, transforms the flavors of the archipelago into gastronomic delights.
– The Philosophy: A cuisine that celebrates the biodiversity of Salina. From capers to cucunci, from blue fish to fresh ricotta, every ingredient is prepared with a modern technique that respects tradition.
– Signature Dishes: Spaghetti with anchovies and fennel, Bagnacauda with raw sea urchins, or the celebrated creations featuring local citrus fruits and shellfish.
– The Wine Cellar: Curated by Luca Caruso, it is one of the most prestigious in Sicily, with 1,200 labels and a remarkable selection of Malvasia delle Lipari that tells the thousand-year history of the island’s heroic vineyards.

Salus per Aquam: A Unique Thermal Spa

The Signum SPA has been a sanctuary of wellness inspired by ancient Aeolian traditions since 2008, the first on the island. It uses geothermal water, partly terrestrial and partly marine, fed by precious natural sources.
– Treatments: Among the many treatments offered, the Salina Massage deserves a special mention, featuring a blend of capers, salt, oil, and honey that helps eliminate dead skin cells.
– A unique experience: the large copper tubs for milk and lemon blossom baths, positioned in secret gardens, offer a primordial yet sophisticated relaxation experience.

And if you’re craving the sea, you can head down to Scario Beach: just a few minutes’ walk away, a small cove of white pebbles with crystal-clear water.

The Secret

Near Signum, in Pollara, the 1996 film Il Postino was shot. La Corbezzolo, the room dedicated to cinema, is one of the hotel’s treasures, having had the honor of hosting actor Massimo Troisi during the shooting of the film.

Useful Info

Hotel Signum Salina
Via Scalo 15
98050 Malfa, Messina
Tel. +39 090 9844222

Rooms: from €500 with breakfast

Tasting menu: from €170
A la carte menu: 2 courses, €95
Cocktails: from €18

Signum Bistrot
Salads and burgers: from €20
Pasta: from €26
Second courses: from €30