Villa del Vigneto

Set amid in 10 acres of land with vines and accessed down a farm road, this single storey villa has the relaxing air of an elegant country retreat. But, though it is certainly peaceful, private and unpretentious, it is also conveniently close to shopping, sightseeing and the sea. Just 6km from the nearest beach, and 6km from Noto, a baroque town and UNESCO World Heritage Site, liberally sprinkled with intriguing churches and inviting restaurants. Designed for style and comfort, indoors and out, this villa has a big broad dining terrace, covered for shade, adorned with flower-filled pots and planters, and framed by a couple of twisted olive trees. With uninterrupted views of the nature reserve with wide views from Siracus to the furthest South Eastern tip of Sicily, it’s a perfect spot for leisurely barbecue lunches.

A paved and gated path leads down to the private pool, hemmed with aromatic herbs and there are apricot and fig trees. And within the house, white décor is enhanced by colourful rugs, antiques and artefacts; two double and two twin bedrooms are furnished with elegant simplicity; and a very convivial open-plan living space includes a dining kitchen and cosy sitting room, each with double doors out to the garden. DVDs, CDs, books and games and a selection of children's toys are also available. Spacious, airy and very relaxing, this family villa in Sicily enjoys unspoilt views from its swimming pool and broad open terraces, across the Vendicari nature reserve to the blue of the sea beyond.