Summer in Sicily 

- Selected Weeks in Gorgeous Massimo Villas Still Available

With the school holidays rapidly approaching and the best of the summer getaways fast selling out, families who have left their booking to the last minute need to act quickly. The Massimo Villa Collection still has limited availability on a number of gorgeous villas in Sicily, ideal for those in search of guaranteed sunshine, idyllic landscapes, delicious regional cuisine, activities aplenty and an abundance of historical sites and natural parks. Sicily has it all and where better to stay than in your very own luxury villa.

SUMMER STAYS IN SICILY

Villa Arte Mare Blueis a real home from home in a hillside setting, but close to the beach at Sant'Ambrogio and bustling Cefalu. Set in extensive private grounds peppered with olive trees, it's the perfect peaceful summer retreat. Families will love spotting the unusual modern sculptures such as a Venetian lion, a grazing cow, turtles and penguins that are hidden in the grounds, and collecting fresh eggs from the villa's own chickens. There is also a horizon swimming pool enjoying gobsmacking views over the coast. The property's interiors are open-plan and uncluttered with white-washed wooden beamed ceilings and modern furniture. The kitchen opens out to the large covered terrace which has its own outside kitchen, alfresco dining space, sitting area and wood fired pizza oven, sure to be a hit with children.  The main villa sleeps a family of six (in one double and two twin bedrooms, each with their own bathroom), while a separate barn caters for an additional two guests – perfect for grandparents or teenagers. Price: one week's self-catering accommodation costs €4,550 in peak season, sleeps 8.

Located in the Sicilian countryside near the magnificent Baroque city of Noto (4km) and some of the most attractive beaches on the island's south-east coast, is the stunning Villa Orizzonte Blue.  Designed with families in mind, the spacious four-bedroom villa is single-storey and features bunk beds and plenty of toys. Wooden beamed ceilings, natural stone walls and modern furnishings complete the picture.  Outdoors, surrounded by greenery, there is a private swimming pool with a sun terrace dotted with loungers, an outdoor pizza oven, and a covered dining area, great for keeping little ones cool in the heat of the day. It's just the place to cool off and unwind while soaking up the views across the countryside to the sea in the distance. Price: one week's self-catering accommodation costs €4,800 in peak season, sleeps 8.

Nestled on the verdant slopes of Sicily's Madonie Regional Natural Park, yet within a short drive of the pretty coastal town of Cefalù, Villa Borghetto enjoys the best of both worlds with sea views to the front and the mountains, flora and fauna of Madonie to the rear. The property consists of a main villa (sleeping 5) and two separate self-contained barns (each sleeping 4) and is a popular choice for groups of friends or big families who want to holiday together but enjoy their own space too. The outdoor kitchen, panoramic terraces, gardens and swimming pool provide a wonderful setting for outdoor living, while the games room, in a former chapel, offers additional space to spread out and enjoy some fun and games.  Price: one week's self-catering accommodation costs €4,550 in peak season, sleeps 13.

Beachlovers need look no further than Villa Vista, a beautiful cottage built entirely of stone and set just above the quiet sandy beach at Sant'Ambrogio on Sicily's north coast. With the sea just short walk away, awake each morning to the sounds of the ocean, spending days on the beach or relaxing in the garden soaking up the views which stretch across to La Rocca fortress that crowns Cefalu. Enjoy alfresco dining and make use of the BBQ and outdoor kitchen. Alternatively for a night off, there is a selection of restaurants just an 800m walk away, with more choice in nearby Cefalu. Inside, the rustic chic look has been created with exposed rock walls, stone archways and wooden slatted ceilings. This gorgeous, well-located property sleeps up to six guests. Price: one week's self-catering costs from €4,000 (in July), sleeps 6.

Ideal for extended families, or a couple of family groups holidaying together, is the sprawling Villa Provenza, which sleeps up to 17 guests in a central villa and two independent apartments. Families will find themselves well-catered for here, with cots, highchairs, plastic plates, cups and cutlery, toys, games, books and DVDs all provided. There is also a large private swimming pool and a children's playground. Surrounded by palm trees and enjoying wonderful sea views, Villa Provenza is sure to wow its guests. Distinctly Sicilian in style with colourful interiors featuring hand-painted tiles and wall-mounted plates, it is divided into three distinct areas to ensure large groups can come together but also enjoy some privacy. Meals are a sociable affair and can be taken in the main dining room or on the terrace. House manager Stefano will also be on hand to offer advice on what to see and do locally. Price: one week's self-catering accommodation costs €3,950 in peak season, sleeps 17.

For more information on the Massimo Villa Collection call 0203 529 8013 or visit massimovillas.com

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