Agriturismo Tenute Pispisa Segesta

The cannolie were the best I’ve had so far, and the Cassatelle were a sublime sweet and savory treat. We came looking for authentic Sicilian food and found it freshly made to order, absolutely delicious. The entrance can be confusing, so head toward the hills and take it slow on the loose gravel farm road with its switchbacks. The drive is well worth it. There are rooms to rent and a swimming pool, plus inviting amenities.

The food was delicious, the wine amazing, and the people lovely. We had lunch after visiting Segestan Temppeli and wished we could have stayed longer. One tip if you’re driving from Segestan Temppeli with Google Maps: don’t follow its route blindly, it sent us over a mountain to a road blocked by landslides. Enter Podere Messina instead, about five minutes from the temple. The entrance to Agriturismo Tenute Pispisa is right there, followed by a ten-minute drive up the track. It’s actually very close if you take that way.

We were welcomed with such warmth and grace, even though our Spanish came out with an Italian accent ;) The dinner was the best of our trip, served family-style and made with vegetables from the extensive garden above the villa. The rooms were just what we’d pictured, with high ceilings, beautiful wooden doors, and plenty of space. The elegant agriturismo sits in the middle of its own vineyards, surrounded by green like an island, with romantic views all around. The approach also gives you a stunning look at Segesta. The main dining room, huge pool, and shaded seating area are all wonderful, and every seat comes with a view. We’re grateful to this lovely family for a stay we’ll never forget, and yes, we’ll return.

Getting there was a wild ride, but the people running the place were lovely. A hidden gem.