Villa on the Cliff
Villa on the Cliff is a beautiful four-bedroom vacation villa located right on the cliff with stunning views of the Tyrrhenian Sea.
How would you describe Casa Etna in a nutshell?
Casa Etna is a beautifully restored palmento — a traditional winery building — set on the slopes of Mount Etna, Europe’s largest active volcano. Surrounded by ancient, now dormant craters such as Monte Gorna and Monte Ilice, the house is immersed in a spectacular landscape of black lava terraces and lush vineyards, with sweeping views of the Ionian Sea and the Gulf of Catania.
What is the story behind Casa Etna? What inspired you to create it?
Casa Etna was originally built in 1890 as a palmento and carefully restored in recent years with great attention to detail and atmosphere. We wanted to combine our experiences and skills to create a retreat on Mount Etna — a place that feels like “a room of one’s own.”
I am a traveller and translator. After spending many years abroad — in California, Northern Brazil, and London — I decided to return and settle in Sicily. Roberto is a DJ and music producer, as well as a passionate connoisseur of the island, which he has explored extensively on his enduro motorbike. Together, we wanted to create a place that reflects our love for Sicily.
The restoration and interior design were led by the Sicilian architect Giuseppe Fisichella, who ensured that the historic structure was preserved while giving it a fresh, contemporary character.
How would you describe the atmosphere and interior design of Casa Etna?
The restoration was carried out with great care to preserve the spirit of the Sicilian rural landscape and the original stonework. Casa Etna offers guests a way to experience the ambience and history of Sicilian culture while enjoying a touch of modern design.
The interiors combine black lava stone, rustic iron, antique terracotta floors, and vintage objects carefully collected by the owners. The décor feels both authentic and contemporary, with warm, earthy tones that reflect the surrounding volcanic landscape.
What makes Casa Etna so special to you personally?
For me, Casa Etna represents both inspiration and reconciliation — a way of returning to my island after years abroad. It is a place of peace and tranquility, designed to welcome a small number of guests who value nature, silence, and sustainability. To me, it feels like a sanctuary where one can recharge under the shadow of the volcano and amidst the vineyards of Sicily.
