Southeast Sicily - Villas, Beaches, Palazzos and More

The southeast region of Sicily holds some little known and rarely visited gems. As with other areas of Sicily, villas are scattered throughout the landscape, leaving travellers with many options as to where to stay - and each location seems to offer a different terrain and experience.

In the southeast region, the options are endless. From beaches to elegant Baroque towns, the southern tip of the island is filled with authentic and unique Sicilian experiences.

The Best Beaches

The southern coastline is dotted with sandy beaches that gently ease into the deep blue Mediterranean Sea, making them some of the best beaches in Sicily. Villas can be found within a very close proximity to the beaches and some even have direct access. These beaches are very swimmer-friendly during the months of June to October, and after August the crowds are rarely an issue.

Historical Sights

Although the southern region of the island has numerous towns and sights well worth seeing, there are a few locations that should make it to the top of your list. One of the most notable cities worth visiting is Ragusa Ibla. This town has 14 UNESCO World Heritage buildings, all within a space of one square kilometre. The exquisite Baroque architecture and limestone streets were all built, amazingly, clinging to the steep slopes of the Sicilian landscape. The town centre is dominated by the Cathedral of St. George, which is said to be one of the most beautiful structures in the region.

Cities Full of Character

On the more southeastern side of the island is the ancient city of Syracuse. Travellers can venture beyond Syracuse’s boundaries, across a narrow bridge, to Ortigia - a small island off the coast with a unique character all its own. Ortigia’s geographical location made Syracuse one of the worlds greatest trading centres at one time. The influence of the Greek, Byzantine, Medieval, Norman and Baroque eras have all left their mark and can be seen in the streets and architecture found on this tiny island.

A Chocolate Lover's Dream Destination

One of this region’s greatest accomplishments is its reputation for producing the most splendid and exquisite desserts in Sicily. Villas located near the town of Modica have the additional benefit of being within access of the island's finest chocolatiers. The chocolate produced in Modica was greatly influenced by its South American origins and the recipe has changed very little since the 16th century.

The southeastern region of this lovely Italian island still remains fairly quiet outside of the beach-going month of August, despite its sumptuous architecture, varied landscape and exceptional cuisine. Thanks to the new airport opening up in Cosimo, just 20 minutes away from Ragusa, this region will soon become one of the most popular in Sicily. Villas available both on the glorious coastline and dotted around the numerous historical cities in the south make this area highly versatile, accessible and a joy to visit.

Helen Forbes is from Essential Italy, a company specialising in Italian holiday villas, apartments and hotels. If you’re looking for the perfect Sicily villas we can help. Our handpicked villas offer distinctive Italian qualities, great comfort and convenience.

Writer and Online Marketing Manager in London.