Villa Palomina

A Villa that Channels the Convivial Spirit of the Sicilian Countryside

Italy’s treasured trio of sea, mountains and countryside all come to vibrant life here on the island of Sicily. Surrounded by gardens, a pool and views of the deep blue yonder, Villa Palomina sits statuesquely along a hill where it bathes in the Mediterranean sun and breeze. 

Following a complete restoration, the interiors are whitewashed with wooden beams and grey floors. We love the bedrooms’ tall rustic doors, multi-hued with patina, and the cozy alcove accents. The kitchen is a joyful dream where you can imagine Julia Child cooking away. 

The biggest heart-pull though, is the palm-encircled land around you with its pool and large terrace. Perfect for sun-dappled days with your friends and family, this is the experience of Italy we all long to have. 

The living and dining and kitchen areas are on the ground floor, along with a small sitting room and a guest bathroom. Upstairs, you will find two double bedrooms with en-suite bathrooms which work well for two couples.  Another bedroom with four single beds and a family bathroom make Villa Palomina ideal for families and groups. The villa is not suitable for children under eight years old.

This villa in Italy has Internet, air conditioning, heating and an indoor fireplace.

AN IDYLLIC HOLIDAY ISLAND

The popular resort town of Cefalù (15 minutes away) sits along Sicily’s northern coast a little more than an hour east of Palermo. 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

Cefalu, Sicily, Italy. Nearest Airport: Palermo Airport (62km)

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