Sicily is an autonomous region of Italy and the largest island in the Mediterranean, divided from the Italian mainland by the Strait of Messina. It is a most beautiful island but one of huge contrast. It combines areas of incredible natural beauty, the spectacular Etna vulcano,  beautiful beaches and totally unspoilt mountain villages with large industrial wastelands. Its cities sprawling and chaotic can be ugly but have the most spectacular baroque architecture, beautiful squares and magnificent historic centres. A rich culture going back beyond the times of the Romans means that there are archeolgical sites scattered all over the island, often poorly kept but little visited.  

The contrasts in the society and the people are just as marked. It is the very pride, passion and love of family life that has led to the most terrible of Sicilian manifestations, the mafia, but it is this very passion and emotional character that makes them the most incredible hosts.  The food is marvellous and the whole experience is disorientating and overwhelming. 

The vulcanic Aeolian Islands including the active vulcano Stromboli to the north are administratively a part of Sicily, as are the Aegadian Islands, beautiful Pantelleria Island to the west, Ustica Island to the northwest, and the Pelagian Islands to the southwest. 

We currently have few houses on our website but given that House of Wonders has an office in Italy we are able to source villas for clients on request.