Curated by Maria

The dark volcanic slopes of Mount Etna make up an extraordinary and unique territory. Here, under a blue horizon, the four elements– earth, fire, air, and water– coexist in a lively combination of contrasts.

Monaci delle Terre Nere is the ideal place to stop and breathe Etna in all its forms, with views of Mount Etna's high peaks, the rolling hills of orchards and vines, and the crystal waters of the Mediterranean.

This innovative wine resort prides itself on creating experiences and settings inspired by this landscape. Here you will find architecture built from volcanic rock walls, dine on meals using mineral-rich ingredients direct from the garden, and drink in the wine of the small private cellar– all of which contain the essence of the sunny slopes and generous orchards of Etna.


At a glance

Location: Sicily, Italy

Price: from €230

Rooms: 27

Suitable for: Families (young children included) and pets

 

Nearest Airport(s): Catania (CTA): 40min

Arrive by: Car, Shuttle, Taxi, Helicopter

Open: March through December

Check in: 3pm Check out: 11am


The Hotel

Monaci is not only volcanoes and black lava. Stepping onto the 25-acre property feels like entering a Garden of Eden, rich in vegetation that, at this altitude, is mixed and lush. Guests will discover villas among citrus trees, palms, and olive groves that welcome guests with stillness and peace, witnesses of a noble past.

Spaces

Built on the grounds of an ancient casale, Monaci was brought back to life by owners deeply in love with the land. 

Monaci has twenty-seven accommodations ranging from individual rooms and suites to villas sleeping up to nine adults. In addition, guests can choose between various sleeping options, from a meticulously restored farmhouse to a room in the original 18th-century manor to an innovative and sustainably constructed villa of lava rock. 

The accommodations are scattered throughout the property amongst orchards, vines, and gardens, allowing ample freedom and privacy, and making you feel right at home.

 

Design

Hotel owner, Guido, has chosen furniture from his personal collections, and the contrast of each piece set against the backdrop of the rustic casale results in a unique mix of contemporary and traditional design. 

Spending a few nights here will immerse you in authentic Sicily– new and old. Imagine sleeping on a bed fashioned from the relics of an ancient tank for pressing grapes inside a villa that once housed a millstone. These thoughtful moments, blending history and the present, can be found and experienced in every corner of the expansive property.

 

Food and drink

Locanda Nerrello serves fine Sicilian fare inspired by nature and the seasonal bounty that the onsite organic gardens provide. The team purchases any ingredients not sourced from the property from artisans in the area. 

We love the decor of this restaurant––set in a cozy home environment of small rooms which create varied spaces in which to eat. During the summer, expect dining with sea views on the terrace, and in the colder months, intimate fireside meals. 

Convivium Bar is the perfect setting for pre or post-dinner drinks. Housed in a former cellar, the heavy stone walls and brightly colored design details create a visual contrast that Monaci does so well. In addition, you can enjoy live music at Convivium with your perfectly mixed herbaceous spritz a few days a week.

Experiences

At Monaci, you sit amongst the rolling hills beneath Mount Etna, the highest and most active volcano in Europe. That might not sound like a place to go for rest and rejuvenation. Still, Mount Etna erupts regularly without endangering local populations and instead provides unique experiences and countless benefits to the island.

Located at the heart of this rich and complex landscape, with panoramic views of the sea and mountains, is Monaci. Beyond the gardens of the estate, guests can enjoy dramatic trails in the hills by foot or bike, swimming in the sea, and horseback riding through the woods. If you prefer more leisurely activities, exploring Sicily's diverse towns nearby or wine tasting will be just the thing. 

Of course, there's plenty to occupy you on the property if you choose not to venture out, including yoga, herb walks, spa treatments, cooking classes guided by Monaci's expert chefs, and olive oil tasting, to name a few.

Quick Tip: Don't forget some decent walking shoes with all the outdoor possibilities, as the volcanic rock can be brutal on delicate shoes.

Why choose Monaci

Highest quality––lowest impact. Monaci delle Terre Nere is a traveler's paradise for those wanting relaxation, outdoor adventures, history and culture, and warm hospitality, all with a dose of unpretentious luxury. Here, the slow pace of each experience gives guests––young to older–– the opportunity to appreciate the precious gift of life in a timeless, authentic Sicilian setting.

Good Trips perks

Welcome drink – one per guest/stay

Complimentary breakfast – one per guest/stay

Property tour

Seasonal activity

Promo code: MONACIGOODTRIPS


 

Sustainability in practice

Monaci epitomizes the "good hotel" as it is the foundation of which they have designed and planned the entire estate. Historical and new structures were designed, restored, and built according to the principles of biodynamic architecture, in respect of the pre-existing structures and with the use of biocompatible materials. See a list of their efforts at a glance below.

  • Organic / eco food & wine

  • Organic / non toxin bedding and linens

  • Organic cleaning products

  • Locally made, organic toiletries

  • Organic garden / 0KM Food

  • 100% smoke free

  • Conscious waste management & composting

  • Low water consumption / water conservation

  • Reduced energy use / solar panels

 
  • Low-to-no plastic use

  • Locally designed/made furniture with natural materials

  • Conserve built and living cultural heritage and values and foster connections between locals and visitors

  • Supports local community and economy

  • Historic preservation of the original structures

  • Low-impact landscape design

  • Low-chemical pool

  • Electric car transport and charging

 
 

Book with promo code MONACIGOODTRIPS for special incentives.

 

 

Maria Pisasale

Maria is a savvy Sicilian with over 15 years in the travel industry. She adores exploring destinations through nature and art and has some seriously difficult to acquire tour guide credentials in Italy. She helps us identify what’s good in the Mediterranean.

 

 

We think you’ll also like…

Previous
Previous

Look To

Next
Next

Haus am Turm