Villa Tamarici

The villa

Sitting in the heart of lush Sicilian countryside is characterful Villa Tamarici, an ancient farmhouse that has been skilfully transformed into an ideal family holiday home with an emphasis on wellness and rejuvenation. Its thorough restoration has taken care in retaining much of the farmhouse's original features, such as the thick stone walls found inside and out.

There are seven bedrooms in total at Villa Tamarici, which are found across the main villa and two separate annexes. Tiled floors, wood - beamed ceilings and whitewashed walls create a relaxed and cooling atmosphere for easily drifting off to sleep at the end of long days. Elegant and traditional pieces of wood furniture also remind you of the villa's long history and heritage.

Also full of charm is the main villa's living space, with a grand fireplace to make this sociable and inviting area feel even cosier in the evenings. Sit back and relax on your choice of comfortable sofa here - or upstairs in the mezzanine - level lounge space.

Enjoy memorable meals outside, with the scents of the garden perfuming the air as you appreciate a laid - back lunch or dinner. Adding rustic charm is a wood oven and charcoal barbecue. The dry stone - walled gardens and courtyard are dotted with typical Mediterranean trees and plants, such as olive trees, carob trees, lemon trees and prickly pears. There's also a large swimming pool for refreshing dips and a bar for refreshment of a different kind! The owners can arrange a range of wellness sessions for you - imagine yoga as the sun - sets and meditation in such idyllic Sicilian surroundings. A local chef can prepare organic meals and trips can be organised for you to make the most of Sicily's wonderful culture, including the island's amazing cuisine.

Villa Tamarici is a rural escape that offers the best of both worlds, with the city of Modica being just a 20 - minute drive away. This historic city boasts a wealth of Baroque buildings and cultural highlights, such as the Duomo di San Pietro and Museo Civico. Modica is also famous for its chocolate, with many chocolate shops to be found throughout the city.

Other towns and cities within reach for sightseeing days out include Noto, Ragusa and Syracuse. The coast is also just a 30 - minute drive away from the villa, with lovely, sandy beaches at Marina di Avola and Lido di Noto.

Villa Tamarici enjoys a peaceful situation within the rolling Sicilian countryside, at the heart of the Val di Noto area, which is a UNESCO heritage site. Picturesque walks are on the doorstep, with the nearest amenities, such as restaurants and shops, within a 10 - minute drive.

Great for a family day trip is the city of Modica, which is just 20 minutes away by car. This historic city is full of Baroque buildings, many of which are beautiful churches. There are two stunning cathedrals to tick off your sightseeing list: Duomo di San Pietro and Duomo di San Giorgio.

The Museo Civico is home to a collection of archaeological finds, ranging from fossils to ceramics. Another museum worth visiting is the one dedicated to chocolate, as Modica has a long history of chocolate making. You can sample some for yourself in the city's many chocolate shops.

Another historic highlight is the town of Noto with its wealth of Baroque buildings and the nearby family - friendly beach at Lido di Noto. Also on the coast is Cavagrande del Cassibile Nature Reserve. Enjoy scenic hikes with opportunities to spot a variety of Mediterranean plants and wildlife, as well as swimming in rock basins that have naturally formed within canyons.

Hilltop Ragusa has an old town with plenty of Baroque architecture to admire. Take a stroll around the lush gardens of Giardino Ibleo, a public park that offers panoramic views over the surrounding valleys.

Also visit the fascinating city of Syracuse on a longer day out. Its old town, called Ortigia, is full of atmosphere and historic buildings. The Teatro Greco is a highlight of the city, with this relatively well - preserved ancient Greek theatre still being used for performances today.