Terre Di Bea

A Stone Eco-Cottage by the Sea, Filled with Local Art and Craftwork

Spanning 40,000 hectares on the Sicilian island of Cefalù is the pristine Madonie Park Nature Reserve. Nestled inside of it's Pine Ridge Forest Reserve, on a hillside overlooking the sea lies Terre Di Bea, a private eco-sanctuary crafted by rustic local materials; indigenous stones, ancient clay tiles and exposed chestnut beams, with views of the Mediterranean set in the panoramic outline of the Aeolian Islands.

The interiors draw from coastal-inspired colors with pops of saffron, paprika and cerulean. At the same time, nature’s own paintbrush – in this case, lush and rare Mediterranean flora – makes the home a veritable chromatic paradise. It’s tempered by the sturdy wooden furniture and pieces created by local artists (if you want to run away with one of their creations, they’re available for purchase). 

The centerpiece is a magnificent outdoor kitchen, shaded under a terrace, connecting you to other outdoor pursuits: relaxing on the full-size day bed, unwinding in the hammock, or simply taking in those unforgettable views of the Mediterranean sea. There is a newly-added solarium with a 6x3m pool.

Romantic and refreshing, this home is an idyllic retreat tucked away on the coast of Cefalù. 

With two separated bedrooms, each with independent entrances and bathrooms, this vacation rental in Cefalù consists of 810 square feet and can accommodate up to five guests.

An Authentic Slice of Coastal Sicilian Life

The popular resort town of Cefalù sits along Sicily’s northern coast a little more than an hour east of Palermo (Terre Di Bea if 4 miles from its center). A UNESCO designated town and historic fishing harbor, the pretty medieval streets are dominated by a 12th century Norman cathedral and an ancient hilltop fortress. Charming and authentic, it’s known for its excellent restaurants that serve local seafood and wines and its many interesting shops. 

The beautiful town of Santo Stefano di Camastra, famous for its ceramics and tiles, is within a short drive, as is Polizzi Generosa, where the owner recommends taking the two-hour class and tour of the ancient furnace at D'Angelo ceramic studio, followed by lunch at Donna Lavia agriturismo, featuring Sicilian specialties and authentic recipes from the Madonie Mountains.

Speaking of the mountains, the rugged Madonie peaks are just over an hour drive inland with great hiking and forest trails and several medieval villages to explore. And then there are the famous beaches. One is St. Ambrose, reachable via a characteristic path that starts from the village. Walk along it to discover to one of the most beautiful stretches of the coastline. For day trips, you can venture even further to the seven Aeolian islands, the volcanic chain just off shore. Sicily holds many natural and cultural charms, from Noto to Catania, the sister cities of Ragusa, Modica Scicli and beyond, the island is meant to be explored and savored.  

LOCATION

Cefalù, Sicily, Italy. Nearest Airport: Palermo Airport (104km)

BEST TIME TO VISIT: Sun-chasers should drop in between July and August, while late spring and early fall can also be pleasant.