Rustic Reinvented

Rustic Reinvented: Sicily

Nestled away in the Hyblean region of southern Siciliy, this farmhouse was recently treated to a four-year refurbishment that finished in 2021 and this hard work is immediately apparent as you take a tour around the buildings and the grounds.

We're full of praise for the way that period features have been retained alongside more contemporary features, which lead to super-sleek kitchens and bathrooms rubbing shoulders quite happily with patches of exposed stonework and wooden ceiling beams overhead. A former stable has been turned into a lavish dining space, while the wine cellar has been kept and filled with local bottles.

The very same climate that makes Sicily so propitious for wine production is a pretty sizable reason why people jet over to the island for a sojourn and there are plenty of ways to bask in the sunshine here. The large swimming pool and adjoining Jacuzzi are sure to see plenty of use, as are the barbecue and alfresco tables on the verandahs that are treated to peaceful views of the local landscape.

Although there's a welcome sense of isolation at the address, the nearest town – Frigintini – is only 3km away and has a few restaurants and shops to tide you over. A little further afield, there are beaches on the island's southern coastline starting from as close as 30km away – well within range for a day trip or two.

Home truths:
*The address is split between the main house with five bedrooms and three separate annexes, two with a double bedroom and two single beds, plus another just with a double bed
*It's possible to book just the main villa if you're travelling as a party of ten, the villa and one annexe for twelve guests, the villa and two annexes for fourteen, and all four properties for fifteen and upwards
*Your host can provide a cot and high chair for free upon request
*There's plenty of space to park on the premises
*There are bedrooms on the ground floor