— Sicily
Sicily, situated in the heart of the Mediterranean Sea, boasts a plethora of attractions for visitors, including exquisite beaches, breathtaking landscapes, mouth-watering cuisine, and a captivating history. Its intriguing past has bequeathed an array of remarkable archaeological sites and majestic buildings.
Furthermore, the island's most famous natural wonder, Mount Etna, has left its distinct mark on the volcanic scenery surrounding it. The locals of Sicily are renowned for their hospitable and amiable nature, and a villa holiday provides an excellent opportunity to interact with them and experience the Sicilian way of life firsthand. Regardless of one's preferences, Sicily caters to all, whether one seeks culture, cuisine, countryside, or just beautiful beaches.
— Villa Tasca
The villa is surrounded by an enormous, nationally recognised park, a typical example of the ‘giardino romantico’ or romantic gardens so popular in the late 18th century when the villa was built, with lush tropical vegetation, a lake on which a pair of swans called Tristan and Isotta live, and a miniature neoclassical temple. The second lake has been transformed into a swimming pool. The piano nobile, accessed either via a huge billiards room, or via an imposing staircase, consists of a gran salone, or main reception room, followed by a series of interconnecting parlours or salotti. Rooms are magnificent – frescoed, with floors of maiolica, and furnished with period pieces. The result is not only visually appealing and suffused with historic atmosphere, but very comfortable – you will feel immediately at home!
6 bedrooms
Sicily, Italy
12 guests
— Villa Del Conte
Villa Del Conte, a meticulously refurbished Liberty-style jewel in Mondello (Palermo), is a historical masterpiece just 10 meters from the beach. The two-story villa retains its original mosaic window, cast-iron stair railing, and tiled flooring. The first floor features a spacious living room, dining area, well-equipped kitchen, and two ensuite bedrooms. A furnished terrace overlooks the garden. The top floor boasts a luxurious suite with a private terrace offering beach views. The verdant garden with a pool faces the sea, providing direct access to the beach through a gate. The villa accommodates 10 guests in five ensuite bedrooms. Amenities include a fully equipped kitchen, smart TV with Netflix, and a private parking area. Perfect for both friends and family, Villa Del Conte offers comfort, privacy, and proximity to Palermo's attractions. Nearby, explore Mondello's Liberty villas, Monte Pellegrino's stunning views, and the Sanctuary of Saint Rosalia.
6 bedrooms
Sicily, Italy
10 guests
— Villa Mimì
Located on the cliff's edge, where Taormina gracefully descends to the coast, Villa Mimi is a historical marvel in a breathtaking location. The views, particularly the legendary dawn scenes of Isola Bella, were evidently cherished by Edward VII. He discreetly frequented the villa during an affair with its owner, Miss Mabel Hill, in the early 20th century.
Reconstructed in the 1940s by the highly regarded architect Tommaso Buzzi, a favorite among the Italian aristocracy, the villa became the property of Mr. Guarnaschelli, Taormina's casino owner. In the 1950s and 60s, the villa attracted luminaries such as Marlene Dietrich, Gregory Peck, Kirk Douglas, and Louis Armstrong, as Taormina held sway as the epitome of jet-set chic. Guarnaschelli, known for his hospitality, ensured returning guests were always assigned the same room. Despite Richard Burton's persistent attempts to acquire the villa, the Guarnaschellis remained steadfast in their decision not to sell.
After decades of neglect, a meticulous three-year restoration has revived the villa, restoring its sweeping panoramic terraces and gracefully interconnected reception rooms to their former glory.
The villa spans two floors, with the ground floor providing garden access and hosting interconnected reception rooms with large windows overlooking the gardens and sea. Additionally, this level features the breakfast room, dining room, kitchen, and guest bathroom. A staircase leads to the upper floor, which comprises six double bedrooms and five bathrooms, each offering fabulous views.
Enveloped by lush, mature gardens, the villa boasts a magnificent infinity pool with stunning views extending to Isola Bella. Thoughtfully arranged areas in the gardens invite outdoor dining or relaxation in the shade on a scorching summer day.
6 bedrooms
Sicily, Italy
12 guests
— Villa Franciscana
Alternatively, immerse yourself in a truly regal experience at Villa Franca, a magnificent Sicilian villa located in the charming town of Bagheria, just a short distance from Palermo. With its voluptuously curved wings, concave facades, and circular forecourt, Villa Franca masterfully combines the elegance of a Palladian villa with the grandeur of St. Peter's Basilica in Rome. As you wander through the opulent halls and marvel at the intricate architectural details, you'll feel as though you've stepped into a palace fit for royalty. Make your dreams of a noble retreat a reality and create lasting memories at this splendid Sicilian gem.
3 bedrooms
Sicily, Italy
6 guests
— Villa Notola
Villa Notola seamlessly blends modern minimalism – featuring white-washed walls and large glass doors – with touches of Italian elegance, creating a holiday home that harmoniously combines comfort and style. Nestled amid emerald greenery and under stunning summer skies, this villa offers a tranquil retreat.
Perched on the high plains above Noto, just a few kilometers from the town, the villa is surrounded by almond and olive trees, providing splendid views of Noto and its coastline – a picturesque Sicilian scene. Tastefully furnished, the villa showcases carefully chosen contemporary and traditional art, harmonizing modern elements with classic Sicilian features, from white stone floors to outdoor dining spaces.
Accessed easily through a lemon tree-lined road, the villa offers multiple entrances leading to the main living space, comprising a dining area, chimney, and a general sitting room. This space seamlessly connects to a spacious and well-equipped kitchen, which can be discreetly closed off when needed.
The garden is easily accessible from any part of the villa, featuring an office on one side and a corridor leading to two bedrooms and a bathroom on the other. Additionally, there's another bathroom and a laundry room. Separate from the main house, two master bedrooms with en suite facilities and a kitchenette – ideal for morning coffee – are accompanied by a fitness suite with modern gym equipment and a shower room.
Outside, a staircase guides you to the swimming pool area, complete with a solarium, shaded space, changing room, bathroom, and both indoor and outdoor showers. The garden also hosts a barbecue and an outdoor dining area.
Surrounded by ever-changing and abundant greenery, the villa is adorned with hundred-year-old olive trees, offering intimate spots for quiet moments in the shade or aperitivi with friends amidst fragrant jasmine bushes. The outdoor dining area, a few meters from the kitchen, invites lunches and dinners to be enjoyed under the open sun and sky.
