Dabbanna

OverviewRetreat to the calm of south east Sicily, immersing yourself in a patchwork landscape of olive groves and dry-stone walled fields dotted with prickly pear cacti and dark green carob trees, with views of the sea beyond. Overlooking this rural scene is Dabbanna, a three-bedroom contemporary villa with a private pool and views of Donnafugata Castle. The villa is a short drive (11 miles) from a selection of lovely beaches and the stunning baroque towns of Ragusa, Modica and Scicli.

The villa takes full advantage of the rustic vistas, with a choice of several delightfully tranquil seating spots with mesmerising views. Set under a pergola alongside a dry-stone wall, the outdoor dining table looks out across unspoilt countryside, lending a magical quality to mealtimes enhanced by homegrown produce from the small vegetable garden. Set slightly apart from the villa, the secluded private pool (12m x 6m) is surrounded by sunbathing terraces with shaded lounge seating and sun beds.

Set across one floor, Dabbanna owes its open, airy feel to the banks of windows and glass doors that characterise the large central living space. The elegant décor features a palette of subtle greys and whites, alongside natural materials and high quality furnishings that together create a refined living area with uninterrupted views. The living room has a comfortable seating area and a dining table for six, with expansive glass doors out to the wraparound terrace. Another door leads into a sleek kitchen with first-rate appliances and a breakfast bar. The villa has three bedrooms, two doubles and a twin, each with an ensuite bathroom.

For larger parties, Dabbanna forms part of the Giardini Donnafugata estate, offering accommodation for 12 in two independent villas, carefully designed to offer maximum privacy and independence to guests in both villas.