Catania, a holiday full of magic and curiosity

During a holiday in Sicily, Catania is a must-see site: fascinating and cloaked in mystery, protected by the Etna volcano, the city is one of the fundamental landmarks of the region in terms of trade, art, culture and tourism.

The history of Catania is full of curiosities, many of them strongly influenced by the nearby presence of the volcano: according to legend, the city was rebuilt from scratch 9 times, between eruptions and earthquakes, and each time the architecture was strongly influenced by the current domination. To date, the city has a distinctly baroque style, though unique for the use of lava rock, and the roads are wide and airy, to tackle the scorching summer air. One of the symbols of the past Norman domination is Ursino Castle, miraculously remained intact after the great eruption of 1669, protagonist of a small curiosity: at the start, the structure was exactly by the sea; today it is not so, because of the lava flows that have significantly altered the structure of the coastline.

Catania is also famous for having given birth to three illustrious names: the opera composer Vincenzo Bellini, the writer Giovanni Verga and the physicist Ettore Majorana, custodians of other legends and curiosities. If rumour has it that Verga wrote his first novel at 15, thus showing his talent at a young age, mystery cloaks the disappearance of Majorana, whose voices and legends have even inspired Sciascia for his book “La scomparsa di Majorana”. The most fun curiosity relates to Bellini, author of Norma.. does this name ring a bell? Exactly, the famous pasta alla Norma was baptised precisely in honour of the Bellini opera, as a great tribute to Sicilian nature!

These little clues suggest how much Catania is a place to be discovered, truly atypical and curious in all its appearance, a true landmark for visitors who want to discover Sicily in its deepest and faceted essence. The presence of countryside, sea and mountain, makes a holiday close to the city even more pleasant, at any time of the year: our villas in the area of Catania are the perfect way to experiment a unique and original stay, full of comfort, relaxation and discovery of an indescribable and fascinating territory.

Villaetna is perfect for immersing oneself in the Sicilian countryside. It is an ancient noble residence with panoramic terraces from where to enjoy a wonderful view of Etna and surrounded by nature among citrus and olive groves. Fine details are the imposing entrance, which already invites to an experience in authentic Sicily, and the swimming pool in lava stone.

Villaetna

Viagrande, a luxurious residence equipped with every comfort, including a swimming pool and private gym, is just 20 km from Catania. Dedicated to life outdoors and to sport (a golf course is 40 km away), Viagrande is immersed in nature, with the ever-present view of Etna as the protagonist.

Casa Tecla, on the other hand, is perfect for a romantic getaway. A short distance from Acireale, the residence has private access to the beach, a Jacuzzi, a bbq and a beautiful lawn with sea view: the favourable position and the comforts it offers make the villa a true jewel in which to take refuge to switch off. La Timpa, is along the same lines, with the addition of a panoramic pool on the Ionian coastline.

A little further away is Il Faro di Brucoli, an extra luxurious residence in the province of Syracuse characterised by a breathtaking view of the gulf and Mount Etna. The presence of the volcano, imposing and affectionate for Sicilians, is a constant and recognisable characteristic, a “lighthouse” which helps to immerse oneself even further in a 100% Sicilian experience.