Ragusa, Modica & south

Ragusa n the south is an outstanding town; a labyrinth of alleyways, quaint stone houses and baroque palazzi and architecture, which has earned it UNESCO World Heritage status. Its history and culture makes it fascinating but the sight of the town clinging to the hill upon its approach is really quite breath-taking. The beaches near Ragusa are spectacular - it has half the blue flag beaches of Sicily - here you will find golden sand, clear water and clean and uncrowded beaches. Marina di Ragusa is the most popular and lively resort, Sampieri and Marina di Modica are both perfect for families and Modica also offers a bay which is windsurfers' paradise.

Modica in the south is a real hidden gem.  Baroque in style, this charming city is only 15 km from Ragusa.  The town, located between two valleys and on Pizzo's hill, is a harmony of churches, palaces and buildings of the eighteenth century (all built according to the late baroque style).  Think narrow, quaint streets, inspiring domes, squares, and fantastic architecture - its picture postcard perfect! It also boasts a lovely marina and beach.

Ragusa Ibla and Scicli

Ragusa is really two towns. The upper town was rebuilt on a grid after the earthquake of 1693, while Ragusa Ibla, the older lower town, kept its medieval street plan. Ibla is the one to explore on foot, with the domed cathedral of San Giorgio at the top of a long flight of steps, quiet gardens at the Giardino Ibleo and plenty of small restaurants.

Scicli, between Modica and the sea, is the third of the area's UNESCO-listed baroque towns and is smaller and quieter still. Fans of the Inspector Montalbano television series will recognise its town hall, and the seaside village of Punta Secca, near Marina di Ragusa, is home to the detective's house in the series.

Inland, the Castello di Donnafugata is a grand nineteenth-century country house set in large gardens.

Chocolate, cheese and wine

Modica is famous for its chocolate, made by a cold-working method that leaves it grainy and intense, often flavoured with vanilla, cinnamon or chilli. The countryside around Ragusa is criss-crossed by dry-stone walls and dairy farms producing Ragusano, a firm cheese made in large blocks. Near Vittoria, vineyards produce Cerasuolo di Vittoria, a light, fruity red that is the only wine in Sicily with DOCG status.

When to go and who it suits

Spring and early summer bring wild flowers and warm days, and September and October are ideal for the beaches once the August crowds have left. Midsummer is hot, so many visitors plan sightseeing for the morning and the beach for the afternoon. Catania airport is the usual gateway, and a car is the best way to get around.

The area suits families wanting gentle sandy beaches, couples looking for food, wine and evening strolls through baroque streets, and groups who want a relaxed villa base with plenty of day trips. Syracuse, Noto and the Vendicari reserve are all within reach.

Browse the villas listed below to find your base in this corner of Sicily, or read more about holidays in Sicily.