Overlooking the bay of Palermo, the hotel is one of Sicily's most famous and the winner of World Travel Awards 2008 in the category of Europe's Leading Island Resort. It was built by the powerful Florio Family at the end of the 19th century by the Architect Ernest Basile, and was recently renovated, in 2005. The air-conditioned property has beautiful jasmine-scented gardens, a terrace and a pool perched over the sea. Facilities on offer include an entrance hall with 24-hour reception, a hotel safe, a currency exchange facility, lift access, a café, a bar, a restaurant, conference facilities and Internet access, as well as room and laundry services. The rooms of this historic hotel, recently renovated and spanning 3 floors, are ideal for leisure or business stays. The lavish original furnishings have been enhanced with the most modern conveniences. The rooms are fully equipped with an en suite bathroom with hairdryer, a king-size bed, a direct telephone line, a satellite and pay-per-view TV, individually controlled air conditioning, a minibar, wireless Internet technology, a key-card security system and a safety deposit box. A balcony or terrace also comes as standard, and there are non-smoking rooms available. For guests'relaxation, the hotel provides a spacious garden with a sea view, an outdoor swimming pool with a sheer drop to the sea, a fitness room, a floodlit tennis court, organised excursions and guided trips around the city and surrounding areas. Situated at the foot of Monte Pellegrino, the hotel and its luxuriant garden look out onto the bay of Sicily's capital. Mondello Beach is just a 10-min drive away. The property is located 3 km from the city centre and is easily accessible by any means of transport. The main railway station (Palermo Centrale) is 4 km away. The Palermo Falcone-Borsellino International Airport is about 32 km away, with direct flights to and from the most important national and international destinations. The hotel has direct access by a reserved marina yacht mooring.