Location: Castiglione di Sicilia, Sicily, Italy

Surrounded by terraced vineyards on the slopes of Mount Etna, Cavanera Etnea is an intimate retreat in the heart of Sicily’s wine country. Set on a restored traditional farm between the historic villages of Castiglione di Sicilia and Randazzo, the estate’s native Sicilian grapes and protected century-old vines thrive in mineral-rich volcanic soil.

A 2009 restoration preserved the original layout and character of the farm complex, including an 18th-century palmento, a traditional stone winemaking structure with a wooden wine press, rock-cut vats and basalt or terracotta channels. Black Etna lava-stone floors and terracotta roof tiles reflect the region’s architectural heritage. Guest rooms pair warm earth tones with exposed wooden beams and windows that overlook the lush vineyards. Relax beside the outdoor swimming pool or stroll through the estate’s gardens. Meals feature cheeses and meats hand-selected by the in-house butcher, accompanied by wines produced on the estate.

The vineyards are 100% certified organic and managed without synthetic fertilizers or chemicals, relying upon natural ground cover to support biodiversity and soil health. Built into the volcanic terrain, the winery’s lava-rock cellar provides natural insulation, reducing the energy needed to maintain ideal conditions for aging wine. A three-level, gravity-fed design further reduces reliance on energy-intensive mechanical pumps.