Hotels · Zafferana etnea, Sicily, Italy
Monaci delle Terre Nere
ZAFFERANA ETNEA, SICILY, ITALY
Our take
Etna looming over biodynamic vines, an 18th-century villa that earns its age — Monaci delle Terre Nere is for people who understand that the best luxury is often agricultural. Come here to drink wine grown in volcanic soil, slow down completely, and feel Sicily rather than photograph it. If your idea of a holiday requires a beach club, a casino, or anything resembling a pulse after 10pm, this hillside will frustrate you. Two or three nights minimum — less and you've missed the point entirely.
Notable Features
- Biodynamic vineyards
- Sweeping views of Mount Etna
- Historic 18th-century villa
💡 Insider Tip
"Book the 'Monaci' room for the most authentic historical experience, with original features and a stunning view of the volcano."
Overview
THE STORY BEHIND MONACI DELLE TERRE NERE TOLD BY FOUNDER GUIDO COFFA
From the Augustinian Monks of the 17th century
“It was this place that chose me! I‘ve only brought its forgotten beauty back to light.”
"I wanted a home on Mount Etna, a place where I could dedicate the next part of my life to good wine and working on the countryside. On my very first day searching, I came across an old run-down villa immersed in pure beauty and knots of thorn bushes. It was love at first sight."
"When I returned home, I kept thinking about that old 18th century villa and how I could bring it back to life. Since imagination is the first step towards creation, I set off to buy that estate which eventually became Monaci delle Terre Nere. So far, I’ve devoted my life to the rebirth of this former abode of a group of Augustinian Monks from Valverde who had previously chosen this place because of its extraordinary energy. The Estate is located at the foot of the largest volcano in Europe, bordered by Etna’s National Park, at 500 metres of altitude. My innermost desire has been to protect its historical and natural identity; rather than simply turning it into a wine resort, I worked to make Monaci a Home, whose intimacy I’ve been endeavouring to preserve."
Enjoy a slice of rural Sicily at Monaci delle Terre Nere.
Sustainability Initiatives +
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