al Castello

We honestly didn’t want to leave Casa Castello. We’ve found our share of hidden gems, but this one really stood out. We heard it had been closed for a few months and isn’t always run as a B&B, since sometimes the whole villa is booked. For last-minute guests like us, that can be a real opportunity. Here’s what made our stay so good. Casa Castello is wonderfully quiet. There were only seven other rooms, and during our visit it seemed to attract couples and families who appreciated the calm. The room was large, with a big bed and the basics we needed: a minibar, hair dryer, and AC. We also had a terrace, plus plenty of comfortable places around the garden to sit in the sun or shade. We thought it was good value. The location was a good mix of seclusion and convenience, though the road in is sandy and rocky. It’s a ten-minute drive to local restaurants such as Invito, and Modica is about 20 minutes away. In June, we enjoyed sitting outside without mosquitoes, wasps, or bees bothering us. When temperatures climbed above 30 degrees Celsius, the breeze was a welcome relief. The views over the valley and the cliff are beautiful. We hiked down to the valley in about 40 minutes and explored prehistoric caves. Paolo’s family had once lived in those caves. Paolo, the Sicilian owner, respects your privacy but is happy to chat. He speaks excellent English and answered our questions, including ones about breakfast. The pool was clean and inviting, and we loved relaxing in the Jacuzzi while looking out over the valley. Breakfast under the old olive trees was another highlight. Paolo’s pastries, fresh cakes, jam, and delicious ricotta showed off his pastry skills, and he brought out different treats each morning. It was so filling that we often skipped lunch. We had a wonderful time at this simple paradise. Leave the busy world behind and enjoy the peace at Casa Castello. Kind regards, W&P from Utrecht the Netherlands

We took a chance and booked a whole week, and it was a great choice. The location is beautiful and deeply relaxing. From the pool, the view is amazing, and the breeze coming from the historical gorge feels perfect. The host is always ready to help, and breakfast is fresh and a delight. We also visited the historical caves and necropolis, which we liked far more than the expensive tourist attraction in Syracuse. Town centre and great local restaurants are only a 10-minute drive away. We’re already planning another visit.

We had a great stay in this lovely country house, perched above a valley in the beautiful Sicilian countryside. The host was very friendly and welcoming.

Gorgeous setting, beautifully clean, and the breakfasts were amazing. The lovely couple who run it made us wish we’d stayed longer.