This was our first visit to Sicily and we decided to stay in one place and absorb the locale rather than driving all around the island attempting to tick all the tourist boxes. We did however manage the Valley of the Temples, Agrigenta's old town, possibly the best mosaics in the world near Piazza Armerina, Ragusa and Modica with their wonderful architecture and Modica chocolate, that needs to be experienced. Not forgetting the Turkish steps, and a lovely pebbly beach and promenade at Seccagrande. Ancient remains at Eraclea Minoa that also has a great beach and beach cafe. We chose Il Tucano because of its central coastal location, its clean, modern, compact design and the excellent reviews, particularly of the friendly hospitality.
We were not disappointed.
Access is a little daunting at first, but we found it first time round, following Massimo’s instructions and Google Earth. Dirt roads are not that uncommon, whether you are from Herefordshire or California.
After a very warm welcome we found ourselves in one of the smaller rooms, not overlooking the sea, but it was great; plenty of room for sleeping in and a well- designed ensuite. We had the morning sun streaming in through the shutters and a cool shady balcony in the afternoon. The aircon was quiet and efficient when we needed it, which was not often. The house is beautifully designed with wonderful sea views from the dining terrace and the lounge area, so we didn’t feel that we missed anything.
Massimo and Marta made us feel at home, and, after a couple of days even part of the family. They were always relaxed, friendly and helpful. Breakfast was plentiful and varied and evening meals were generous, beautifully prepared and presented. We didn’t always eat our evening meals at the house, preferring to explore a bit, there are some excellent restaurants and cafes in nearby San Leone as well as in Agrigento itself. Massimo and Marta were always ready to recommend… the Capriccio di Mare became a favourite!
Of course, we ate far too much ice cream, it would be insulting not to! Le Cuspidi in Agrigento is as good as it gets and serves an excellent lunch on a leafy boulevard, but they have a gelateria in San Leone as well, much closer…
There is some rubbish on the beach, the Sicilians don’t seem to get picking up after themselves, but its no worse than many other Med beaches, and there are plenty of nearby beaches to choose from. Personally, we loved the beach: its just a little bit wild.
All in all, we loved Il Tucano and would be happy to spend more time there. The house and people are wonderful. If there are faults they are Sicily’s own: it’s mostly European but with strong undertones of Africa, and the Middle East. Go there and see for yourselves.