Monaci delle Terre Nere
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