Country House Villadorata

Whether in the English countryside or in upstate New York or in Argentina, the term “country house” carries a certain set of expectations. And Country House Villadorata, an eight-room estate set among the vineyards and olive groves of southeastern Sicily, meets all of them. It’s a restful retreat with a long history — housed in the buildings of an old winery, it’s elegant and spacious, with splendid views and gracious service. But there’s a twist here. The curving swimming pool looks like it was lifted out of a hip seaside resort in Brazil; the clean architectural lines, sculptural furniture, and open, uncluttered spaces all have a distinctly urban feel.

Not quite what you’d expect at a traditional country house, and that’s a good thing. Guest rooms are large and silent, with wood-beamed ceilings, stone floors, and minimalist decor, save for a few quirky details — a modern lime-green armchair here, old-fashioned painted tiles in the bathroom. All have French doors opening onto private balconies or patios where you can savor the views from a butterfly chair. All those grapes and olives: it’s enough to make you want to head to the poolside for a snack and a glass of something refreshing. If you’re staying in the superior suite, you won’t even have to go that far. It comes with its own stone swimming pool, not to mention views of the ocean.

A leisurely Sicilian-style breakfast is served on the hotel’s patio. You could linger around the hotel and its peaceful surroundings all day, or hit the country roads in your rental car. Country House Villadorata is located just outside Noto, a Baroque city named a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This is the almost the very tip of the island, so in addition to gorgeous old churches and beautifully ripe lemons practically falling off the citrus trees, you’ll find idyllic beaches. Enjoy getting lost; just make sure you’ve marked the country house on your map, as you’ll want to be here at sunset.

Please note: Country House Villadorata is open seasonally from April thru early November.

How to get there: Country House Villadorata is located approximately one hour from Catania Fontanarossa Airport via A18.