Description
Zagara lies in one of the most beautiful corners of Sicily, among the luxuriant citrus groves of the plain of Catania between Mount Etna and the sea, on an estate of around 120 hectares. Most of the land is devoted to the production of highly prized varieties of organic oranges, mandarins and clementines, but on its fringes woods extend to the slopes of Monte San Basilio.
The main house has been recently restored. Great pains have been taken to retain architectural features typical of the area, while at the same time incorporating every modern comfort.
The house is on two levels, with eight bedrooms – four on each floor. All are decorated with traditional furniture and vintage crafts, and each has either a private terrace or direct access to the garden.
The upper floor also has a library – a perfect place to relax while sipping a tea or cocktail, or to browse through the many magazines and exquisite books provided by the owner.
The owner is a passionate gardener, and has created a magnificent landscaped garden, featuring pines, oleanders, acacias, carob trees, agave and yucca palms, along with aromatic Mediterranean plants such as bay, lavander and myrtle. There is also a much-prized ‘palmeto’ an impressive garden devoted to the cultivation of palm varieties from all over the world, and an exotic desert garden with a collection of cacti.
Crossing the garden you arrive at a comfortable conservatory furnished with ample and very comfortable sofas and a beautiful lava stone fireplace. Lighting a fire when evenings are cool only adds to the atmosphere, and you can easily while away hours reading, chatting or simply admiring the landscape through the huge windows.
Entertainment includes cards, board games, satellite TV, iPod dock, and a comprehensive collection of world cinema classics, as well as a well-stocked bar where you can fix yourself a drink. Breakfast and dinner are served in the dining room.
There is a belvedere on the upper floor with a stunning view of Etna – an ideal place for meditation, yoga or for a few moments of sheer tranquility.
A magnificent swimming pool, a sauna and a tennis court (where you can also play at night) add the final touch to a stay in this splendid and luxurious villa.