Owner of around a dozen leading hotels the world over, Rocco Forte was born and educated in the UK. He went to Oxford University, became an accountant, took over the family business and married the love of his life, the glamorous Alaia Ricci when she was 21. They had three children, two daughters both now working in the business (Lydia is director of food & beverage and Irene has recently launched a skincare line you’ll find in their spas) and a younger son who no doubt will join them in due course. Then there is his hotelier sister, Olga Polizzi, her daughter, the dynamic Alex Polizzi, AKA The Hotel Inspector, and another high powered daughter in the tech world. Throw in grandchildren and spouses and it’s quite a dynasty.

Holiday at Verdura and you may well be on the table next to some or all of the above. Although you might not notice. For all their wealth and success they are relatively low key, although if you do notice them you can’t help but be a bit fascinated at how much they’re enjoying the dream set up they have created.