The farm is small, delightful and organic, the coast is a short drive, and you can walk to simple cafés, restaurant and museum. But the star here is Europe’s largest active volcano… there are great views of Mount Etna from the orchard. Come for organised treks to the crater, skiing in winter, walking the rest of the year. Back at the farm is Cesare, generous and delightful. His wife is a teacher; the family is multi-lingual and well-travelled. This is a lovely set up for a family stay, with gardens to run around in, hammocks slung between walnut trees, a guest kitchen in which to rustle up a meal, and two friendly labs to stroke. You can also self-cater, in the characterful old casita dedicated to Pippinitto, the farmer who once lived here with his family and donkey. Expect new mattresses and good linen, en suite showers, wood-burning stoves; the décor, complimented by chunky country beams and old terracotta, is simple, modern and comfortable throughout. As you’d expect, Cesare’s breakfasts are plentiful and delicious – warm rolls, yogurts, home-grown fruits, cakes and jams – served at small wooden tables in a lovely airy room.
Our family had a wonderful time staying at La Casa di Pippinitto. Cesare is delightful, offering great tips (including a fabulous restaurant in town and the gorgeous hillside village where the Godfather was filmed), and the setting is charming. Breakfasts are just incredible - heavenly homegrown orange juice, the most amazing rocket and nut salad with fresh ricotta, scrumptious omelettes, fabulous homemade jams and honey... the list goes on. The rooms are spacious and comfy, with lots of lovely pottery about. It's also excellent value.