Immerse yourself in nature and enjoy splendid views over an organic vineyard at Villa Etna, fantastically positioned on the southern slopes of Mount Etna, in the east of Sicily. Bordered by majestic olive trees and rolling greenery, the rustic-chic country house has been recently renovated and is the perfect base for exploring all the glory this island off the coast of Italy has to offer.
The charming house comes with Juliet balconies and wooden window shutters painted in the azure hues of the nearby ocean. Step inside the white-washed interior to discover a modern kitchen – every minimalist lover’s dream. Fitted with first-class appliances and a long island bar, it leads to a light-flooded living and dining area with views over the terraced gardens below.
Patterned tiles and classical paintings create an artistic yet cosy setting, effortlessly drawing upon the island’s aristocratic influences. Most of bedrooms look out towards the volcanic landscape and the Simeto valley and some even boast private terraces made for sun worshipping or enjoying star gazing in the evening.
On sunny days, disappear in the rows of vineyards beneath looming Mount Etna or lay down a blanket in the private gardens full of fruit and olive trees. The infinity pool mirrors the contemporary feel of the interiors, yet it manages to blend seamlessly into the romantic setting while offering a place where you can effortlessly refresh.
Surrounded by a volcanic landscape where the remains of magma intertwine with lush greenery, the area is well known for its fertile volcanic soils that support extensive agriculture. Vineyards and orchards spread across the lower slopes – so put on your walking shoes and set out to explore the breathtaking scenery before cooling down with a glass of wine in one of the nearby towns.
Less than a 5-minute drive away, the local village benefits from amenities such as supermarkets, a post office perfect for sending holiday photographs back home, and a few cosy bars, restaurants and bakeries selling local delicacies.
Alternatively, a 30-minute drive will bring you to Sicily’s second largest city, Catania. Once the most important cultural, artistic and political centre, it has been home to some of Italy's most famous artists and it is filled with beautiful plazzas, Baroque and Renaissance architecture as well as a sun-kissed coastline ideal for soaking up the stunning Italian weather.
Enveloped by vast gardens extending as far as the eye can see, Villa Etna is an elevated take on rural simplicity great for those looking to escape the strain and stress of everyday life.
