We stayed at Villa Palmento in early March and it was even better knowing that we escaped the snow and chaos in London. We were able to relax on the wonderful terraced area with distant views down the valley to the sea and ate lunch every day outside. Once the sun went down, it was too cold to stay outside and we enjoyed the tastefully decorated and comfortable sitting and family rooms.
My grandchildren found the place very exciting with plenty of trees to climb and places to build an outside den. This left plenty of free time for me to spend with my daughter Sarah, confident that the children were somewhere in the extensive but safely enclosed grounds and leaving us in peace with a glass of wine on the sunny terrace lounge.
This is a spectacular home in which you can feel the history of the old winery and farm preserved and combined with stylish and original decor and furnishings. It is very private and not overlooked in any way with video surveillance which I know would be important for my high profile friends. The housekeeper Anna was absolute charming and efficient. I’m not sure how she does it , but she was able to keep the house impeccable without ever being seen.
The crowning glory on our trip was a gourmet meal prepared by Daniele, a private chef who also organized and accompanied us on a wine tasting in the local wineries and a visit to a ceramics artist in nearby Caltagirone.
Our only regret is that our trip was so short, we are planning to return for a longer stay in the summer when we will hang out all day by the spectacular pool.
Lynda has a beautiful home in Lugano which we have stayed in too. I could spend all my holidays at her lovely homes. They are tasteful, high quality but also places you can relax and enjoy the wonderful surroundings.