Surroundings
Val di Noto is a geographical area of south east sicily dominated by the limestone Iblean plateau. Decimated by an enormous earthquake in 1693, the area's towns were rebuilt in what came to be known as the Sicilian baroque style.
The most notable town is Noto itself, which is now a tourist attraction on account of its fine Baroque architecture. Also known as “the stone garden” due to the precious carved stones that decorates buildings and churches, in June 2002 UNESCO inscribed Noto and seven old towns of the Val di Noto on the World Heritage List as "representing the culmination and final flowering of Baroque art in Europe"
Villa Principe Nicolaci is the perfect starting point to explore the east coast of Sicily with its cultural and natural treasures. You can easily reach the most beautiful beaches of the island like Cala Bernardo and Porto Palo, Eloro or Cala Mosca inside the natural reserve of Vendicari, a real jewel made of crystal clear water and white sandy beaches, home to migrating birds and nest to sea turtles.
But you can also lose yourself driving along country lane that leads to unspoiled breathtaking archeological sites like Pantalica or Noto Antica and easily come in touch with the different layers of cultures that dominated the island.
To do not miss a daily trip to Modica, Ibla and Scicli in the province of Ragusa to enjoy the traditional cuisine and fresh produce like the excellent cow meat and cheese.
Distances
33km \ 20 miles Syracuse
60km \ 37 miles Catania's airport
286km \ 177 miles Palermo
4 km \ 2,5 miles Noto
6km \ 4 miles Nearest beach
53 km \ 33 miles Ragusa