Living The Leopard
12 Guests
6 Bedrooms
6 Bathrooms
A sumptuous and highly prestigious baroque residence dating back to the first half of the 17th century, Palazzo Musmeci graces the historic centre of Acireale, one of Sicily's lesser-visited gems. The current owners of the palazzo have breathed new life into their beloved home, painstakingly restoring the florid artistry, the flawless craftsmanship, and the ingenious architectural flourishes of its grand halls, salons and bedrooms. At the same time, they've allowed the property to evolve by adding 21st-century comforts, contemporary artworks and designer furnishings. A stay in this magnificent home – which has hosted King Ferdinando IV of the Two Sicilies and King Umberto I of Savoia during its illustrious history - is an awe-inspiring, life-enhancing experience.
Looking to know more about Palazzo Musmeci?
Our team has visited each of our villas, so they can share the finer details and help explore flexible date options
Keyholder highlights
- Sumptuous, character-filled interiors
- A real sense of historical wonder
- Refined, sophisticated accommodation
- A leafy courtyard garden with gorgeous pool
- Full service including chef
- Walking distance to restaurants, cafés and shops
Gallery
The gorgeous pool with its shady, comfortably furnished portico.
The sociable lounge area by the pool.
The vast, ornate ballroom on the first floor is not included, but can be reserved on request and for an extra fee to host a special dinner or event with your guests.
The leafy al fresco dining area in the first part of the secluded courtyard.
After a day's sightseeing, what could be better than a refreshing dip in the pool?
Includes
- Sole use of the villa and the grounds
- The support of our Villa Specialists to help you select your perfect villa
- The expertise of a dedicated local team to help you fine-tune the logistics of your trip and to plan a range of experiences, many of which are exclusive to The Thinking Traveller
- A Local Specialist to assist you during your stay and 24/7 emergency support
- A comprehensive guide to your villa and its surrounding area, including our restaurant recommendations, cultural highlights and other activities
- An easy-to-use online holiday planner to keep all your booked experiences and services in one place, ensuring that nothing gets missed during your stay
- The ability to coordinate and share the details of your trip with your group via Your Account
- All sales taxes, electricity, gas, Wi-Fi, linen, bath towels, pool and/or beach towels
- Fully-staffed villa including housekeepers, and a Sicilian chef
- Daily cleaning service and a mid-week linen change
- Continental breakfast
- Daily chef service for lunch and dinner
Excludes
- Flights
- Car hire
- Transfers
- The cost of lunches and dinner (please see the Services section for prices), which should be paid by guests during their stay
- The ballroom, though this may be reserved for an extra fee should you wish to host a special dinner or event for your guests
- Tourist taxes (tassa di soggiorno) levied by many town councils in Italy. The amount varies by location and usually amounts to between €1-€5 per person per night
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The Area
Palazzo Musmeci rises proudly in the centre of the history-filled, buzzing town of Acireale above Sicily's east coast. Famous throughout Italy for its carnival celebrations, Acireale boasts numerous architectural treasures, and a great selection of excellent restaurants, cafés and bars. It does, despite its many charms, fly somewhat under the tourist radar.
Down on the coast below Acireale is Santa Maria La Scala, 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 make it a great place to spend a day or two. It is possible to walk there in about 30 minutes.
Other lovely fishing villages, such as Aci Castello and Acitrezza, dot the coastline.
Taormina is just a short drive up the coast, fascinating Mount Etna awaits exploration behind you and multi-layered, historic Catania should not be missed.
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.
