Casa Serena is a beautiful, architect-designed villa in the Madonia mountains, close to Polizzi Generosa,which is 12 kms south-west of Scillato. It has 1.5 hectares (4 acres) of land, planted with flowers, olives and fruit trees – and is internally furnished with distinctive, modern furniture and an interesting selection of art and photography. It offers the perfect holiday location for people who like contemporary style, rural seclusion and natural beauty – whether for quiet relaxation or more energetic pursuits such as walking, hiking or cycling. The house and garden are set within the boundaries of the Madonie mountain park and the mountain views from the house and terrace are stunning. Despite its quiet seclusion, it is only 4kms from the nearest town, Polizzi Generosa, with restaurants, bars, a supermarket and various food shops. In addition to the main house, there is also a small, separate guest house for 4 people just 50 metres up the garden, which will be available from July 2015. Apply for prices.
The house is well located for exploring the beautiful Madonie mountains, rising to 2000m (6500ft) which are perfect for hiking, riding, cycling/ mountain biking, nature and painting holidays. A 10-minute walk up the road outside the front gate brings you onto the lower hiking trails. Alternatively, guests can relax on the extensive terrace with its small plunge pool – or stroll along the numerous wooded paths and lanes in the neighbourhood. Water courses trickling down through the limestone rock ensure an all-round water supply, so the surrounding slopes are wooded and green throughout the year.
To the north, the nearest beaches are 40 mins drive and the attractive seaside resort of Cefalu can be reached in 50 mins – and nearby are the remains (and interesting museum) relating to the ancient Greek town of Himera, destroyed by the Carthaginians in 408BC. A little further west, the town of Caccamo, with its extensive and well-preserved 12th century castle, is well worth a visit. To the south the stunning cliff-top town of Enna can be reached in less than an hour; while the spectacular Roman mosaics of the Casale Romana, near Piazza Armerina (below right) another 40 minutes further, make an exciting trip out.