Our View
We love the peaceful elegance of Monaci delle Terre Nere, where terraced vineyards meet the scent of Sicilian herbs, and the sea shimmers in the distance. There's so much to love - local cuisine and wine and extraordinary adventures like a helicopter flight above the volcano.
Monaci delle Terre Nere, a Relais & Châteaux residence, is the first luxury Eco-Bio resort in Sicily. Within its 62-acres, there is a family-owned 19th-century manor house, rooms, suites, and beautiful hilltop villas that blend into the landscape. Inside, you’ll discover original features, such as oak-beamed ceilings, stone walls and painted frescos that will transport you back in time.
To make the most of Sicilian serenity, spend your days moving at your own pace, guided by the rhythms of nature. There’s no need to look beyond the estate – everything you seek is already here. Begin with an indulgent massage among the vines or yoga in the gardens as the morning sun warms the landscape. Ride through the vineyards by bike, or unwind beside one of the solar-heated private pools. For the curious and the indulgent alike, a visit to the wine cellar offers a rare glimpse into Etna’s volcanic terroir. When it’s time to dine, enjoy authentic flavours in the estate’s several bars and restaurants.
THE LOWDOWN
- Location: Mount Etna, Sicily
- 8 Villas, 15 Suites, 5 Bedrooms
- 62 acres of gardens, groves and vineyards
- Private heated swimming pools
- Numerous on-site activities
- 30km from Catania Airport
The Locale
Set high on the eastern slopes of Mount Etna, Monaci delle Terre Nere lies halfway between Catania and Taormina – just 30 minutes from the airport and a 20-minute drive from the Ionian coast. Surrounded by lava-stone terraces and ancient vines rooted in fertile volcanic soil, the estate offers a striking blend of untamed nature and understated elegance.
Ideally placed for exploring both sea and summit, it’s a gateway to guided Etna hikes, wine tours through the renowned Etna region, and horseback rides across the countryside. You can venture out on cycling routes, city tours of Catania, Taormina, Syracuse and Ragusa, or even take in the landscape from above on a helicopter tour directly from the estate’s private helipad.
