JUST A STEP AWAY FROM THE SEA, CULTURE, AND THE MOST GENEROUS NATURE OF SICILY

Staying at I Gelsomini Guest House will give you the opportunity to explore this wonderful corner of Sicily, immersed in nature, history, and the traditions of the southeastern area of the island.

The proximity to the Vendicari Nature Reserve will allow you to take various hiking trails in contact with the huge biodiversity of the area, to do birdwatching admiring the stop of the pink flamingos, to go back in time walking among the remains of a 16th-century tuna fishery or simply to relax in one of its many charming beaches.

A short distance from the Natural Reserve, you will find the equipped beach of San Lorenzo, a treasure of our coast that extends for about 1 km. Famous for its fine golden sand, the crystal-clear waters that lap it, the magnificent views, and the peace that reigns there, it invites you to complete relaxation and the exploration of its rich seabed.

Marzamemi is a delightful seaside village located a few kilometers from our property, where time seems to have stopped. The village will offer you the opportunity to get lost in its colorful alleyways, appreciating the great variety of fresh fish restaurants present, as well as a magnificent turquoise beach and a characteristic fishing port that at sunset turns pink.

Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site and known as the "capital of Sicilian baroque", Noto is a charming city, with its labyrinth of cobbled stone streets, pastel-colored buildings, and numerous and imposing Baroque churches.

Its heart is Piazza XVI Maggio, which houses the Senatorial Palace and the Cathedral of San Nicolò, from where you can enjoy an unforgettable panorama.

Noto is also renowned for its great variety of food and drink, with restaurants and trattorias to suit all tastes, and for the rich cultural and musical events that take place here throughout the year.

A short distance from Noto is the city of Avola, with its strategic location and rich Baroque history and culture. The city offers a wonderful coastline and is famous for producing excellent culinary delights such as Nero d'Avola wine and Pizzuta almonds, which you can taste in one of the city's many restaurants. Nearby, you will also find an ancient Greek archaeological site, the Pantalica Necropolis, which is definitely worth a visit.

Located at the far south of Sicily, Portopalo di Capopassero is a seaside village that overlooks a breathtaking view, with its impressive lighthouse and the fascinating Isola delle Correnti, an island located between the Mediterranean Sea and the Ionian Sea, right in front of the coast. Portopalo is an important deep-sea fishing center, and its fishing port is a must-see attraction, especially at sunset when the boats return to shore loaded with their precious catch. Here you can taste fresh fish and local specialties in one of its many restaurants.
 

Towards Syracuse, it's worth a detour to La Riserva di Cavagrande del Cassibile, a unique natural area where water and rock have created a breathtaking landscape. Here you can explore the gorges carved by water, walk along well-marked trails, between rocky cliffs and waterfalls, swim in the crystal-clear water of natural pools, or enjoy activities like rafting and canyoning.

Syracuse is a rare gem of Eastern Sicily that combines history, culture and natural beauty. Immerse yourself in its ancient history by visiting the Neapolis Archaeological Park with its Greek theater, Roman amphitheater and necropolis and then head to Ortigia, the ancient and central part of Syracuse, located on an island off the coast, is the heartbeat of the city. Get lost in its maze of light-stone streets, in search of its countless beauties. From the Aretusa Fountain with its papyrus, fed by an underground spring, to the splendid Syracuse Cathedral, one of the oldest Christian churches in Europe, located in the center of the Cathedral Square, to the Maniace castle, from which you can enjoy a panoramic view of the seafront and the breathtaking Syracuse coast.

In the midst of the beautiful Ionian coast of Sicily, lies the city of Modica. With its unique architecture, its culinary traditions, and breathtaking Baroque monuments (The Church of San Giorgio and The Church of San Pietro), it is a one-of-a-kind destination.               The city is famous for its chocolate production, which is still made today according to ancient Aztec traditions; in addition, its cuisine is a true treasure that combines Sicilian tradition with Spanish and Arab influences.

Located on a hill, Ragusa Ibla is one of the most precious gems in the Sicilian region. Its strategic location has made it a crossroads of history and culture. Its Baroque buildings and churches tower over the hill, creating a landscape that is difficult to forget. Don't miss the Cathedral of San Giorgio, one of the city's landmarks, with its imposing staircase and the magnificent Baroque facade.