Monaci Delle Terre Nere in Zafferana Etnea, Sicily

The hotel extends over 25 hectares of landscaped gardens and vineyards at an altitude of 500 metres above sea level. Guests can explore over 100 species of fruit trees and an on-site vegetable and herb garden that supplies the restaurant. The estate also has its own wine cellar, produces its own wine, and maintains a private helicopter landing pad.

Rooms are set either in the main historical building or immersed in the vineyards, each with original wood-beamed ceilings or exposed stone walls. Every accommodation offers a balcony or patio with views of the garden, the Ionian Sea, or Mount Etna. Select private lodges come with their own swimming pools for exclusive privacy.

The on-site restaurant Locanda Nerello serves seasonal Sicilian cuisine using vegetables and herbs grown on the property. An organic breakfast buffet is served daily, featuring homegrown produce and estate-made honey and olive oil. Guests can participate in personalized culinary workshops led by the chefs, and the artisan bar crafts cocktails from estate-grown botanicals.

The hotel has an infinity pool with views of the coastline, a spa offering full body massages and holistic treatments, and yoga classes held on the grounds. Guests can join bike tours, walking tours, cooking classes, and themed dinner nights. The property also provides a fitness centre with a personal trainer, badminton equipment, and a children's playground.

The hotel is 2 km from Zafferana Etnea, a 20-minute drive from the nearest beach and Acireale, and 35 km from Taormina. A shuttle service runs to Catania-Fontanarossa Airport, 40 minutes away by car. The concierge can arrange horse riding, cycling, hiking, and wine tasting, and electric vehicle charging stations and valet parking are available.

Landscape: 25 hectares of gardens & vineyards on Mount Etna

Rooms: Historic lodges with private pools and volcano views

Dining: Locanda Nerello organic farm-to-table restaurant

Wellness: Infinity pool, spa & yoga classes

Activities: Cooking classes, wine cellar tour, bike tours

Unique: Relais & Châteaux member, private helicopter pad