A Celebration of Longevity, Beauty, and the Mediterranean Way
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We were delighted to welcome a wonderful group of women to Verdura Resort - our founder’s second home and the soul of Irene Forte Skincare - for a retreat rooted in longevity, connection, and Sicilian beauty.
Thank you to Verdura for the warm hospitality, and to La DoubleJ and founder JJ Martin for bringing color, spirit, and sisterhood. From Irene Forte Skincare rituals and spa treatments to a tour of our organic farm, Mediterranean feasting, sound healing, yoga, and a visit to Caltabellotta - now recognised as an emerging Blue Zone - we explored the powerful synergy between skincare, spirituality, and the science of longevity.
Farm-to-Lab Living
We visited our organic farm, where the Irene Forte Skincare journey begins. Ingredients like olive oil, almonds, and aloe vera are grown sustainably on the estate, then elevated through advanced science into sensorial, clinically backed formulas that support long-term skin health. Throughout the retreat, we also enjoyed nourishing Mediterranean cuisine by Chef Fulvio Pierangelini, bringing farm-to-table living to life.
Skincare at the Irene Forte Spa
At our 4,000-square-meter flagship spa, guests experienced our Wrinkle-Smoothing Facial. Powered by Myoxinol™ - a neuropeptide derived from Hibiscus Seeds - this advanced facial works to relax facial muscles and ease the tension that contributes to expression lines. Paired with our signature advanced face workout massage, this treatment sculpts, lifts, and firms, enhancing collagen and elasticity for visibly smoother, younger-looking skin.
Dinner Under the Olives
Dressed in La DoubleJ from table to guest, we gathered beneath olive trees for a delightful Mediterranean feast. Nutrient-rich dishes, a band playing Italian music, Sicilian hospitality, and a collective sense of joy was pure dolce vita.
Spiritual Rituals
From sound healing with Pauline Fabry, to guided meditation led by JJ Martin herself, and soulful yoga with the wonderful Niomi Smart, we were guided into joy, presence, and connection. La DoubleJ’s mission is simple: to raise the vibration of everyone they touch. And over a few radiant days at Verdura, that energy was felt throughout.
Caltabellotta: An Emerging Blue Zone
We made our way to Caltabellotta, a historic hilltop town 949 metres above sea level now recognized as an emerging Blue Zone, where people live exceptionally long, healthy lives.
It’s a place close to Irene’s heart. It’s where she was married, where she hikes, and where she is an honorary citizen. We began our journey through the town led by the joyful sounds of the Banda Città di Caltabellotta, a beloved local marching band. From there, guests made their way to Irene’s favorite family-run restaurant, Ristorante M.A.T.E.S., for a Sicilian lunch.
Here, we were joined by Professor Calogero Caruso, a leading expert in biogerontology with over 40 years of research and nearly 400 published studies.
Together, Irene and Professor Caruso hosted a panel discussion on the science of longevity and why Caltabellota is now gaining global recognition.
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8.6% of the population is aged 90 and above (over twice the regional average)
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The centenarian rate rivals that of Sardinia's original Blue Zone
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Longevity is supported by a Mediterranean diet, clean mountain air, mineral-rich water, daily walking, and a deeply rooted sense of purpose and community
A Celebration of Longevity
From mindful movement to Mediterranean nourishment and science-led skincare, we brought our longevity philosophy to life.
Bring the Retreat Home
Step 1: Gently cleanse with our Multi-Oil Omega Complex Almond Cleansing Milk
Step 2: Brighten and purify with our Triple AHA-Complex Lemon Toner
Step 3: Smooth and firm with Myoxinol™-infused Hibiscus Serum
Step 4: Illuminate and hydrate with antioxidant-rich Olive Eye Cream
Step 5: Soothe and smooth with Myoxinol™-infused Prickly Pear Face Cream
