Villa Paladino is the perfect base for those looking to explore the western side of Sicily. Located in Solunto on the outskirts of Palermo, it is a ten minute train ride from the city centre, allowing you to travel in and out of the hustle and bustle (should you wish to) without getting stuck in traffic or having to negotiate some tricky driving conditions! The astonishingly well-preserved ancient temple at Segesta, and the amazing mosaic-filled cathedral at Monreale are both within easy reach by car. Local beaches in Sant' Elia are accessible on foot or by car and worth a visit in July and August when other more well-known beaches on the other side of Palermo are rammed with tourists. The villa itself, which comprises a main residence and several holiday chalets, is set in a beautiful garden full of fig and lime trees. My young daughter loved 'night swimming' in the lovely swimming pool, which looks out over the shimmering gulf of Palermo and the Madonie mountains.
Marida and her husband Guiseppe are perfect hosts and were very kind and helpful at all times. Guiseppe is a scientist and also an eminent artist. You will see some of his stunning paintings of wildlife and allegorical compositions in the print reproductions which hang on some of the walls in the chalets.
Last but not least is Baba the dog, who is like a big cuddly teddy bear and so docile, his feline friends use him as a cat bed or to shade themselves from the sun!