Monaci delle Terre Nere

Plenty of Sicilian hotels boast of their views of Mount Etna, but few can quite match the situation of Monaci delle Terre Nere. That’s not just any terre nere, after all — this black earth is the volcanic stuff, and it’s no wonder, since here you’re literally on the slopes, albeit the safe lower slopes, of Sicily’s most salient geographic feature.

It’s a little bit baroque, a little bit rough-edged in classic Sicilian style, with a patina of exquisitely weathered stone, and ultimately it’s a contemporary mélange, weaving some subtle modern threads into its eclectic tapestry. Where there’s weathered stone, of course, there ought to be some plush comforts to balance, and these rooms and suites, lack for nothing when it comes to physical luxury — that’s especially the case in the suites, which are at once rougher and plusher than the standard rooms, and in the villas, a pair of freestanding two-room accommodations set some distance from the main building.

Locanda Nerello, the restaurant, is an impressive one, with a lovely terrace dining room, serving mostly organic fare grown by the estate’s farm. It’s no wonder — the volcanic soil is especially fertile, and Monaci delle Terre Nerre is steadfastly devoted to enjoyment of the local geography. No need to just observe, either, as they're happy to arrange immersive Sicilian cooking classes and Etna wine tastings — and Ayurvedic massages to help wind down afterwards.

Please note: Monaci delle Terre Nere requires a two-night minimum (three night minimum during peak periods).

How to get there:
Acireale train station is approximately 5 miles (9 kilometers) from the hotel. The airport at Catania is about 22 miles (36 kilometers) from the hotel. Transfers can be arranged by the hotel at the cost of 85€ each way.