This winter, Grand Hotel Excelsior Vittoria in Sorrento, Italy, invites guests to “Let the Wonder Begin” with an elegant season of festive experiences. The hotel’s gardens and pathways are lined with thousands of tiny lights, while seasonal scents and classic melodies fill the air. In the lobby, a towering Christmas tree sparkles with carefully chosen ornaments, setting a warm and refined holiday tone for visitors.
© Grand Hotel Excelsior Vittoria
On Dec. 12 the Caruso-De Curtis Sorrento International Festival begins, blending fine dining with operatic performances and regional song. The festival program includes a Concerto Lirico Crossover opening featuring soprano Tatiana Previati and baritone-pianist Raffaello Bellavista. Among the special events is a charitable Zeppola Tasting on Dec. 21, where live caroling accompanies the irresistible aroma and taste of freshly fried zeppole, the classic Italian holiday donuts.
© Grand Hotel Excelsior Vittoria
Guests can reserve curated tasting experiences showcasing the hotel’s culinary craftsmanship. Executive Chef Antonino Montefusco will present handmade panettone paired with a prized Louis XIII Jeroboam cognac from Rémy Martin. Presented in the frescoed Bar Vittoria and the contemporary La Pergola Bar à Champagne, the planned panettone flavors include Arancio e Cioccolato (orange and chocolate) and Albicocca Pellecchiella del Vesuvio (Vesuvius apricot), alongside a third surprise variation. Panettoni will also be available for purchase at the property and through the hotel’s boutique online shop.
Holiday dining highlights include an authentic Neapolitan Christmas Eve dinner in the magnificent Sala Vittoria, followed by Christmas Day lunch in the Michelin-starred Terrazza Bosquet. Each menu emphasizes regional ingredients and traditional recipes prepared with the hotel’s refined culinary touch.
The season culminates on Dec. 31 with the multisensory Wonderland New Year’s Eve gala. Guests will enjoy an exquisite dinner of Italian creations by Chef Montefusco, live music, and midnight fireworks over the Bay of Naples. On New Year’s Day, the celebration continues with a traditional brunch in the opulent Vittoria Ballroom, where Maestro Francesco Nastro will provide soothing musical accompaniment to welcome the year ahead.