Il San Corrado di Noto

On a remote stretch of land framed by ancient citrus and olive groves, not far from Sicily’s southern tip in the UNESCO-honored Val di Noto, a grandly appointed luxury hotel stands out from the region’s many agriturismi. Il San Corrado di Noto occupies a sprawling estate that was once a nobleman’s residence, and although painstaking renovation efforts have been made, the place still has a regal air, from the decorative entrance gates to the ivory-walled architecture to a pair of oversized aquamarine pools encircled by palm trees and generously spaced-out sunbeds.

Low-lying buildings house Il San Corrado di Noto’s suites, all featuring polished hardwood floors, modern four-poster beds draped with mosquito netting, and palatial bathrooms lined in travertine marble. Luxurious details include Frette linens, walk-in closets, Lavazza espresso machines, custom furniture and doors crafted by local artisans, and plush indoor and outdoor seating areas. Private patios face one of the two pools, and a few suites have private pools, as do a collection of larger villas. A lavish Sicilian-style breakfast can be delivered to rooms or served in the hotel’s signature restaurant, and a more casual osteria and bar offer additional options for lunch and spritzes by the pool. Rounding out the offerings are a state-of-the-art spa, complimentary bicycles, and a shuttle service to the private beach club, located about a 15-minute drive away, and open from June to September.