This is a house full of character in a great location that makes a perfect base for exploring the countryside. It's a few kilometres from the modern part of Ragusa so there are some really good pizzerias and supermarkets a short drive away with great local produce, and it's only 20 minutes drive from the stunning old part of Ragusa. At night you can sit out and look at the stars overhead with the lights of Ragusa in the distance - a lovely mix. It's about a half hour's drive from beaches in one direction and beautiful hill-top towns in the other and for bigger days out, Mt Etna is about two and a half hours away. The house (built 1931) did a good job of staying cool in the mid-July heat - the thick stone walls and shuttered windows and doors were designed for the task. But the lack of air conditioning is something to consider if you melt easily - particularly if travelling with very small children. Our two - aged 8 and 5 - fell in love with the place. They adored the animals and observing Uccio's parents getting on with the jobs of keeping the small farm going. Our hosts couldn't be faulted for the warmth of their welcome. It all made for a really memorable holiday.