Monaci delle Terre Nere

Lovingly converted into a boutique hotel on the lower slopes of Mount Etna, this estate was originally a Saint Anne’s monastery; the name ‘Monaci delle Terre Nere’ means ‘the monks of the black soil’.

As well as the views to the peak of Etna to the west, several terraces face the Straits of Messina to the east, especially attractive in the early morning light. The focus is on organic products both in the bathrooms and the acclaimed restaurant, where most food is produced on the surrounding farm and the wine is mostly Sicilian; the chef is happy to offer cookery lessons to extol the virtues of their methods. The 27 bedrooms, spread over several small buildings, combine the natural rustic, technology-free charm with modern furniture. After walks through the estate and surrounding hills, guests can relax in the small infinity swimming pool. The hotel is a popular wedding venue, so we suggest clients avoid staying on Friday or Saturday nights.