High up in hazelnut country, these two white minimalist homes offer stupendous views (and less torrid temperatures) for walkers and sybarites alike. The mountain soars above, the valley plunges below, the peace is profound and nature lovers will be in heaven: you have the peaks and beech woods of the Madonie National Park to explore. Casa Serena is fully open-plan downstairs, with sweeping polished concrete floors and lofty white walls, and a super kitchen wrapped around a central sculptural stair. Expect cutting-edge LED lighting and abstract paintings, a wood-burning stove, top-notch furnishings, and a white and grey palette with accents of fuchsia, violet and red.. In summer, enjoy the generous terraces and extensive garden with a barbecue, swimming pool, and sloping orchard behind. The Garden Guest House, a short walk along a paved path, has the same urban-sleek feel as the main house with a state of the art kitchen and French windows opening out onto a shaded terrace. As for civilisation, it’s no distance at all: the unspoilt hilltop town of Polizzi Generosa is under three miles.
Fantastic gem in the countryside, pure peace and quiet away from the world. Carl and Sylvie are the most generous hosts and nothing is too much. Poppy and Rosa the donkeys are great fun for the children to feed and the swimming pool is a welcome escape from the heat. We had a lovely week exploring the countryside, hiking, visiting ancient monuments and eating and drinking far too much, just what everybody needs to reset in this busy, modern world.