Casa Balat

A 300-Year-Old Farmhouse Reborn as Sustainable, Architectural Haven in the Hills above Noto

Deep in the Sicilian countryside on two wild hectares, this once abandoned farmhouse has been upgraded by architect Ignazio Mortellaro of Beit Studio (Palermo & London), who has preserved the ancient stable and refitted it with three sparely poetic bedrooms, a pair of living areas, an eat-in kitchen, and ample space for 10 guests to spread out both indoors and out into the old courtyard and garden with its hammocks and olive, fig and almond trees. A saltwater pool and outdoor kitchen anchor the garden space, and there’s a yoga and meditation spot with a sunshade.

The farm’s primary bedroom features a king bed and mezzanine with two singles. Its oversized stones are complemented by Corten steel and partial plaster, with wide arched openings leading into the garden. The second bedroom also offers a king and two singles (one on an open, elevated space) and a well-patinaed, masculine décor. Bedroom three is a softer space with a classic layout and subtle whitewashing enhanced by its oversized Corten steel and glass exit. Four bathrooms are spare and sleek, ranging from tiled to marbled.

Outdoor spaces are rustically elegant, preserving the backcountry vibe, with added amenities among the old stones and native grass.

Experiences

The home is equipped for yoga/meditation in its shaded shala and can host small retreats as well.

Around

Located in the hills above Noto, the home offers a great base for exploring this part of Sicily, including the beaches of Vendicari Reserve, the gorges of the Cavagrande Reserve, the Noto Antica ancient ruin, and many of the region's UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Noto is known for its Baroque treasures, Greek ruins like Palazzolo Acreide and Byzantine relics, and the area is an outdoor enthusiast’s mecca too, with hiking, mountain biking, birdwatching, and water sports all a draw to the area. Bird lovers should take to the Vindicari Nature Reserve, home of flamingos and rich aviary life. The coastline near Noto is pocked by rocky coasts and sandy coves, several lagoons and the ruins of an old tuna fishery processing site, the Tonnara. Definitely worth a visit is the Cavagrande del Cassibile Gorge, a protected canyon of gorgeous waterfalls and turquoise swimming holes that covers thousands of hectares of soaring limestone formations, and is crossed by hiking trails of varying difficulty, from family-friendly walks to more challenging elevation gains.

Location

Noto, Sicily. Nearest airport: Catania (one hour)

Best time to visit

Year round

Photography: Maria Lo Meo