In this unique corner of Sicily, where history and nature are combined with people’s hospitality and eno-gastronomic excellence, we offer engaging experiences that will make your trip really special. Book a stay yourself and add on our special services, or contact us to create an experience tailored specifically to you.

SICILIAN TASTE

All our properties feature a fully equipped kitchen where you can prepare your favourite dishes with fresh seasonal produce. Book a cooking course at Casa Sabir shopping with our chef at the stalls of the Ortigia market, sample our traditional Sicilian breakfast or enjoy a private al fresco dinner prepared by our chef in the garden of Residenza Hortus or in the terrace of Casa Kimiyà, tasting Sicilian recipes from sea and land in front of the lights of Modica. Pair your dishes with a bottle of wine from our cellar where we have selected the territory’s best vineyards focusing on organic, natural and biodynamic wines. And for those who wish going to the roots of the flavors and aromas of this magnificent land, we organise sensory experiences of Mediterranean biodiversity in collaboration with Gli Aromi di Scicli, and naturalistic excursions to discover the aromatic herbs of the Val di Noto.

TIME TO PAMPER YOURSELF

The Hortus Garden is the ideal place for a regenerating afternoon during the summer. Under the pomegranate tree, Salvo and his staff will take care of you with relaxing massages for couples, hot volcanic stones, Motia salt scrubs and personalized treatments, and you can then complete your relaxation in the heated jacuzzi. Our teas and herbal infusions, produced by the Herborarium Museum of Catania with blends of herbs and flowers from Mt Etna, have been inspired by century-old traditions used by apothecary monks.

MODICA’S BLACK GOLD

The Aztec Xocoàtl was brought to Europe in the 16th century after the discovery of the New World, and was first introduced to Sicily during the Spanish rule of Modica, where the original recipe of this unique low temperature processed blend of cocoa, sugar and spices has been preserved over the centuries. The aromas of cinnamon, hot pepper, vanilla, orange, cardamom and ginger will inebriate you as you visit our favorite chocolate ateliers, Antica Dolceria Bonajuto led by Pierpaolo Ruta (the most ancient confectionery in Sicily) and Laboratorio Casa Don Puglisi (managed by a local association committed to social inclusion initiatives). Ask us for information on private visits and tastings.

EVENTS, LOCATION & DESIGN

Our homes are can be reserved for photo shoots, exclusive events and special occasions. Residenza Hortus was the presentation venue for the creations by NY jewel designer Giuliana Michelotti and modican fashion designer Loredana Roccasalva (photo below). Walking on Corso Umberto I do not miss to visit Loredana’s atelier and discover her original collections which evoke the Sicilian soul.

> Discover LR collection inside Residenza Hortus (photos by Federico Cannata)

Loredana Roccasalva. Passeggiando su Corso Umberto I non mancate di visitare l’atelier Modica
Loredana Roccasalva ambientata in Residenza Hortus (foto Federico Cannata) Modica

VINEYARDS AND OIL GROVES

If you, like us, are passionate about excellent wine and olive oil, Sicily can offer great satisfaction. Visit the “frantoi” near Frigintini where organic extra virgin olive oil is produced from the ancient and autochthonous varieties of “Moresca” and “Tonda Iblea” olives. Stop in  the Val di Noto vineyards to taste the great wines of this area, such as Frappato, Nero d’Avola, Cerasuolo di Vittoria, Eloro di Pachino and Moscato di Noto.  To fully enjoy the experience without worrying about driving, ask us about our private transfer service.

A LAND OF MYTH

This corner of Sicily has been inhabited by many cultures since ancient times. If you are interested in learning more about its history, a private guide is the ideal choice.  Discover Modica and the UNESCO baroque cities of Val di Noto, or immerse yourself in the Greek charm of Syracuse. If you dream of passing from history to myth, we propose a special day trip to Palazzolo Acreide and Pantalica accompanied by Sicilian poet Fabio Messina, in the secret heart of this land where the Gods still survive.