Taking the sea air in another era
Crossing the Rock incorporates everything that is desirable in a rental villa: a rare and privileged seafront position, sensational views, stylishly crafted and luxuriously proportioned interiors, extensive panoramic grounds and terraces, a large pool, discreet pampering service and total privacy: all at the heart of the picturesque fishing village of Santa Maria La Scala, with its excellent seafood restaurants, amenities and rocky-pebbly beach.
Our team has visited each of our villas, so they can share the finer details and help explore flexible date options
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Santa Maria La Scala, on the sea below Acireale, is a characterful working fishing village, still relatively untouched by tourism except during August and summer weekends when it attracts locals from Catania in search of the sea. Its harbour (where you can hire a boat), sea-front fish restaurants, bar and bathing platforms are on Crossing the Rock's doorstep.
Other lovely fishing villages, such as Aci Castello and Acitrezza, dot the coastline, while nearby Acireale is great for food shopping.
Taormina is just a short drive up the coast, fascinating Mount Etna awaits exploration behind you and Catania is just a short drive down the coast. Further afield, Syracuse is about an hour's drive away, but also suitable for day trips are the UNESCO World Heritage towns of Noto, Ragusa, Modica and Scicli. There's even a golf course within striking distance if you fancy a round!
From the Guest Book
Crossing the Rock was impeccably clean and beautifully appointed with furniture and art. The level of service was top notch - highly responsive and effective. The local village and setting gave us a peaceful, pastoral experience and true local cooking and culture, while Acireale was just a 15-minute walk for a bigger, more urban experience. Our excursions to Mount Etna, Catania and Siracusa were an easy ride away, so the central location was wonderful. The staff was so attentive, kind and friendly that we were sad to leave them. In summary, everything about the villa, the setting, the local village, the staff and our experience with our local cooks, concierge services and excursions was absolutely fantastic!
Teresa Stivarius October 2024
Crossing the Rock was exquisite. It's in a beautiful location and is perfect for a big family.
CM June 2024
Crossing the Rock was fabulous, perfect, a lifetime fairy tale come true. We loved the atmosphere and the elegance.
Bonnie Sarno June 2024
We had a magical week with family at Crossing the Rock. It's a stunning setting with beautiful gardens and terraces.
Verified guest, May 2024
We loved Crossing the Rock, its grounds and layout. We enjoyed the the relaxing ambience and the fabulous dinner and breakfasts = the cooks and waiter were fantastic. All the cleaning staff were excellent.
Verified guest, June 2024
Crossing the Rock was authentic, comfortable and gorgeous! It was beyond all expectations. The entire Thinking Traveller team was exceptional from the day we booked the villa to the day we sadly left the villa. The team is a stellar example of how to interact with and treat a customer.
Verified guest, July 2024
Excellent
4.7/5
942 Reviews