Ever wondered where the beautiful hotels from The White Lotus series are located? Well, you're in for a treat! The show features stunning resorts in Maui and Sicily that you can actually visit. Let's dive into the real-life locations behind these famous TV spots and see what they have to offer.
Key Takeaways
- The White Lotus hotel in Maui is a real resort where season one was filmed.
- San Domenico Palace in Sicily served as the main location for season two.
- You can visit these filming spots and enjoy the same views as seen in the show.
- Both hotels offer luxury amenities and breathtaking scenery.
- Booking a stay at these hotels can be a bit pricey, so start saving up!
Exploring the White Lotus Hotel in Maui
Filming Locations in Maui
The first season of The White Lotus was filmed at the Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea. This 5-star hotel is located near Wailea Beach, one of Maui's largest beaches. The cast and crew lived and worked on location, forming a bubble under strict COVID-19 guidelines during the fall of 2020.
Resort Features and Amenities
The Four Seasons Resort Maui boasts 380 guest rooms and suites, three pools, a spa offering wellness services by the pool and ocean, three golf courses, and an art museum. The luxury resort also includes 81 cabanas, water sports, and snorkeling. Rooms start around $1,000 a night, making it a truly extravagant destination.
How to Visit the Maui Resort
To visit the Four Seasons Resort Maui, you can book a stay directly through their website. The resort is open to the public and offers a variety of packages and deals throughout the year. Whether you're looking for a relaxing getaway or an adventure-filled vacation, this resort has something for everyone.
The Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea is a perfect blend of luxury and natural beauty, offering an unforgettable experience for all its guests.
Discovering the White Lotus Hotel in Sicily
San Domenico Palace Overview
The San Domenico Palace in Taormina is the real-life hotel that stands in for the White Lotus Sicily. Perched on a rocky promontory high above the Ionian Sea, this iconic luxury hotel is a branch of the Four Seasons group. The hotel has two wings: one with a garden, a former convent with a cloister from the 14th century, and the Grand Hotel wing, built in 1896.
Historical Significance of the Hotel
Originally a 14th-century monastery, the San Domenico Palace was converted into a hotel in 1896. The hotel has a rich history and has hosted many Hollywood stars, including Audrey Hepburn and Elizabeth Taylor. The clifftop retreat offers breathtaking views of Mount Etna and the ancient Greek theater, Teatro Antico di Taormina.
Booking Your Stay at San Domenico Palace
If you want to experience the luxury of the White Lotus Sicily, you can book a stay at the San Domenico Palace. The hotel offers large suites with expansive furnished terraces and plunge pools. Guests can enjoy the infinity pool with its pretty gray and white umbrellas and dine at Anciovi for a memorable meal. However, be prepared to save up, as a stay at this luxurious hotel can be quite expensive.
Iconic Scenes Filmed at the White Lotus Hotel in Sicily
Famous Filming Spots
The San Domenico Palace in Taormina, Sicily, served as the primary filming location for the fictional White Lotus resort. This real-life hotel, managed by the Four Seasons group, boasts an infinity pool and stunning views of Mount Etna. The hotel has two wings: one with a garden and a former convent, and the Grand Hotel wing, built in 1896. The opening scenes of the season were shot more than 200 kilometers away from the main location.
Behind the Scenes Insights
The production team built a dock in Naxos bay for the arrival scenes, with Taormina's dramatic cliffs and the Etna volcano in the background. The hotel itself, a former 14th-century monastery, was transformed into a luxurious retreat, blending historical charm with modern amenities. The staff, following Valentina's orders, welcomed guests in this picturesque setting.
Touring the Filming Locations
Visitors can explore the iconic spots featured in the series, including the clifftop retreat overlooking the Ionian Sea and the ancient Greek theater, Teatro Antico di Taormina. The town of Taormina, known for its scenic views and historical significance, has been a popular resort destination since the 19th century. A visit to these locations offers a glimpse into the luxurious and dramatic world of the White Lotus series.
The Real-Life Locations Behind the White Lotus Series
Maui's Stunning Beaches
The first season of The White Lotus was filmed in a real hotel in Hawaii. The show used the beautiful beaches and lush landscapes of Maui to create a tropical paradise. All the locations used in the first and second seasons are real. You can visit these spots and see where your favorite scenes were shot.
Sicily's Scenic Views
For the second season, the production moved to Italy. The show was filmed at a luxury hotel on a 15-acre estate. The stunning views of Sicily's coastline and historic sites added a unique charm to the series. You can explore these scenic spots and feel like you're part of the show.
Other Filming Locations in Sicily
Besides the main hotel, the show also featured other beautiful locations in Sicily. From charming villages to ancient ruins, these spots provided a perfect backdrop for the series. Plan your route and visit these amazing places to experience the magic of The White Lotus in real life.
Luxury and History at San Domenico Palace
Transformation from Monastery to Hotel
Originally built as a convent in the 14th century, the San Domenico Palace was transformed into a hotel in 1896. The hotel has been thoughtfully restored to combine its historic grandeur with modern comforts. Guests can enjoy sweeping views of the Ionian Sea from the clifftop infinity pool or sea-view suites.
Luxury Amenities and Services
The San Domenico Palace offers 111 rooms and suites, each showcasing Italian art and marble bathrooms. Guests have access to three restaurants, two bars, an infinity pool, and a gym. The hotel also offers specially curated experiences, such as local wine tastings and trekking up Mount Etna.
Celebrity Guests and Events
The hotel has hosted many famous faces, from Oscar Wilde to Audrey Hepburn and Edward VII. Its fame has only grown since its 2021 refurbishment as a member of the Four Seasons and its feature in the White Lotus series. Rates start at about $555 per night, with some suites costing up to $6,900 per night.
The San Domenico Palace blends its historic past with every modern comfort, making it a unique destination for travelers.
Planning Your White Lotus-Themed Vacation
Travel Tips for Maui
When planning your trip to Maui, consider the best times to visit. The island is beautiful year-round, but April through June and September through November offer the best weather and fewer crowds. Make sure to book your accommodations well in advance, as the popularity of the show has increased demand.
Travel Tips for Sicily
Sicily offers a mix of history, culture, and stunning landscapes. The best time to visit is during the spring or fall when the weather is pleasant, and the tourist spots are less crowded. Don't miss out on exploring Taormina, where you can embark on a 2-hour boat tour to see some of the shooting locations of the White Lotus television show.
White Lotus-Themed Tours and Packages
Several travel agencies now offer White Lotus-themed tours. These packages often include guided tours of filming locations, luxury accommodations, and exclusive experiences. Look for packages that offer a mix of relaxation and adventure to get the most out of your vacation.
Whether your heart desires the Pacific or Mediterranean, a White Lotus-themed vacation offers a unique blend of luxury and adventure.
Conclusion
Exploring the real-life locations of The White Lotus in Maui and Sicily offers a unique way to experience the beauty and luxury showcased in the series. From the serene beaches of Maui to the historic charm of San Domenico Palace in Taormina, these destinations provide a perfect backdrop for your own adventures. Whether you're a fan of the show or just looking for a stunning vacation spot, visiting these hotels can make for an unforgettable trip. So pack your bags and get ready to walk in the footsteps of your favorite characters!
Frequently Asked Questions
Where was season one of The White Lotus filmed?
Season one of The White Lotus was filmed entirely at a resort in Maui, Hawaii. The beautiful beaches of Maui provided the perfect backdrop for the show's dramatic scenes.
What is the real name of the White Lotus hotel in Sicily?
The real hotel used in season two of The White Lotus is the San Domenico Palace in Taormina, Sicily. It is a luxury hotel managed by the Four Seasons group.
Can I visit the filming locations of The White Lotus in Sicily?
Yes, you can visit the filming locations in Sicily. Many scenes were shot at the San Domenico Palace and around the town of Taormina.
What are some features of the San Domenico Palace?
The San Domenico Palace has stunning views of Mount Etna and the Ionian Sea. It also has a beautiful garden, luxurious rooms, and an infinity pool.
Are there any tours available that focus on The White Lotus series?
Yes, there are tours available that focus on the filming locations of The White Lotus. These tours can take you to the exact spots where the series was filmed in both Maui and Sicily.
Is it expensive to stay at the San Domenico Palace?
Staying at the San Domenico Palace can be quite expensive, as it is a luxury hotel. It's a good idea to save up if you're planning a stay at this iconic location.
