Sicilian sunshine

Il Gattopardo, near the pretty resort of Taormina, is a 19th-century manor house with stunning lavender- and hibiscus-filled gardens. Surrounded by a private vineyard and lemon plantation, the villa is an hour’s drive from Sicily’s famous volcano Mount Etna. 

A vine-draped gazebo overlooks the swimming pool and the interior of the house is filled with antique furnishings. The villa sleeps ten and costs €5,050 for a week in June. Smaller properties are also available, to see the full range of villas, tel: 020 7193 0158; or visit www.solosicily.com

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