Escape Artists

Escape Artists: Sicily

Perched high on a Sicilian hillside with dazzling views of the sea, you could feel a million miles from anywhere at this luxurious, newly built villa – which is precisely how we like our Italian escapes to be.

Inside, it's all dashingly handsome and contemporary, with smooth concrete floors and statement lighting nodding to the industrial look. Bedrooms are gloriously pared-back and minimalist, each with shower rooms for added privacy. But it's outside on the vast poolside terraces surrounded by verdant olive groves where we think you'll be spending most of your time. Get everyone together for Mediterranean alfresco lunches beneath the dapple shade of the pergola – the sea vistas are spell bounding from here.

When it's time to get acquainted with the local culture, you can reach some of the island's most iconic baroque towns and the Vendicari Nature Reserve in just a few minutes by car. Your first port of call has to be charming Noto, just two miles from home. Then blaze a trail to the San Lorenzo coast (just six kilometres drive) – there's a beach club begging you to draw up a chair upon the sands for sundowners.

Home truths:
*There is ample private parking outside the villa
*A cot and high chair are provided for little ones
*You'll find laptop-friendly workspaces for remote working at this home
*A welcome pack is provided to help settle you in
*Your nearest supermarket to pick up essentials is two kilometres away in Noto