Overview
It sure didn’t take long for us to figure out why so many guests have fallen head over heels for Villa Matal. It has what we at soloSicily consider to be that perfect blend of historical elegance, a touch of playfulness, and a striking location. Nestled cozily in the hills overlooking Noto, the finest baroque town in all of Sicily, this villa is the ultimate launching pad for your daily excursions to other popular sights in the area such as Greek Syracuse, and the old Baroque towns of Ragusa, Modica, Caltagirone, and the Vendicari Nature Reserve. Even Catania and the foreboding Mount Etna aren’t too far away. Dating back to the mid-1800’s, this gem of a villa once was the summer residence of the Prince of Villadorata. Yes, we are talking about the same noble Villadorata family that owned Noto’s famous Nicolaci Villadorata Palace which art lovers from all over the world have dubbed a masterpiece of Sicilian baroque. From the vine-draped walls and theatrical pool deck to the colourfully renovated bedrooms and wrought-iron gazebo, Villa Matal is just full of surprises. Did we forget to mention the fantastic facades, multi-level setting, unbelievable panorama, and snuggly swimming pool?
Property details
Villa Matal is a single-story home with superbly high ceilings that has been lovingly restored by its present owners. The glass front doors at the entrance open up into an adorable dining room that is reminiscent of a winter garden and can accommodate up to 10 guests. To the left of it lies a fully-equipped kitchen, complete with country-style furnishings, a storage area and service bathroom. At the far side of the dining room, an arched doorway leads you into a large, well-lit drawing room with an inviting fireplace, two comfortable sitting areas, and a study space consisting of two bookshelves and a writing desk. All five double bedrooms branch out from the drawing room and each comes with its own en-suite bathroom. (Here’s a little secret: the red room’s bath is actually a jacuzzi.) Craftily hidden behind the kitchen is a staircase that will lead you up to the laundry and the sprawling upper terrace that could certainly come in handy if you happen to be a stargazer.
The first things you’ll notice once you step through the gate are the lush, vine-draped wall that runs along the entire south end of the property and the magnificent Baroque facades that crown the villa’s tall windows. A quick walk around will reveal a tastefully-designed, multi-level setting that gives the villa its playful personality. On the west wing, you find a sun-kissed terrace with a fabulous view of the entire Noto Valley. A stairway leads to an irresistible 14 x 6 swimming pool that sports a theatrically elevated solarium, an American bar, and a changing room. On the east wing, a quiet terrace covered with Bouganville bushes, an outdoor-kitchen with a barbecue and pizza oven, as well as an enchanting wrought iron gazebo eagerly await you.
Area details
Villa Matal is located atop the hills of Noto, the most splendid example of all Sicilian Baroque towns. Looking out over the valley, it almost feels like the recently restored cupola of the town’s Cathedral is beckoning to you. Noto is only a short distance away from southeast Sicily’s other UNESCO World Heritage Sites such as Greek Syracuse, and all the other old Baroque towns in the Valley of Noto - Ragusa, Modica, and Scicli. Caltagirone, towards the northwest, has one of the island’s oldest and richest traditions of ceramic production. The Vendicari Nature Reserve, whose gorgeous beaches are perhaps the most secluded in Sicily, is also only a short drive away from the villa.
Additional Information
If, exploring Sicily’s artistic and cultural heritage is at the top of your agenda then this property is your perfect match. This is also the place to be at if you are a fan of the grand Baroque style, or better yet, 18th century Sicilian Baroque architecture. After all, our island is about so much more than just pristine beaches and clear blue seas.
The swimming pool is open to guests from 24th May to 2nd October. The pool is available out of season for an additional charge of € 200 per week.