IT905 Casa Modica

Large villa with pools Sicily - dating back to the 18th century, this beautifully restored masseria farmhouse with adjacent ' guard tower' enjoys a dominant hillside position overlooking the countryside around Modica. It has a very large hydro-massage pool plus the unusual bonus of a second pool, as well as plenty of places to relax, both indoors and out. Several excellent sandy beaches are within easy reach, as are a number of UNESCO world heritage sites, and there are plenty of good restaurants and shops in the nearby town.

Casa Modica has been sympathetically restored and furnished in keeping with the island's heritage. The large living room is centred around an attractive open fireplace, whilst the bedrooms are traditionally furnished with beautiful wrought-iron beds. The characterful kitchen is in brickwork and is decorated with locally-made majolica pottery; it even has a typical internal fireplace/barbecue. An internal courtyard - baglio - surrounds the second swimming pool: this is a superb sun-trap and a great place to relax and soak up the Mediterranean atmosphere. The villa is surrounded by quintessential Sicilian countryside: cornfields bordered by dry stone walls, interspersed with cactus plants and wild flowers.

If you're hoping to spend time at the beach during your holiday, you have chosen a good place to stay. Some of the closest sandy beaches and rocky coves are to be found at the stunning nature reserve of Vendicari - these unspoilt beaches are not equipped, so you will need to take a picnic! There are also several very good sandy beaches (some equipped with sun beds and beach cafés) at Pozzallo, Marina di Modica and Sampieri. Other places to visit in the area would definitely include Siracuse: a wander around the central island district of Ortygia is not to be missed, particularly during the mornings when the colourful street market is held; and for those who are interested, a visit to the city's famous Greek and Roman ruins would round the day off perfectly. Ragusa Ibla, Noto, the fascinating cave dwellings at Ispica (Cave d'Ispica) and a longer day trip to the Greek temples at Agrigento are other options. With horse riding and tennis also available locally, and the fantastic cuisine of Sicily on offer all around you, there is something for everyone at Casa Modica large villa with pools Sicily.