Castello Camemi Vizzini

Castello Camemi is a boutique five stars hotel in one of the most beautiful areas in the heart of Eastern Sicily: the hills of Val di Noto, a long time World Heritage Site.

All the 14 charming rooms of Castello Camemi are unique and elegantly furnished, featuring stone floors, private bathroom, TV, safe and Wi-Fi. Our suites are harboring pearls and provide guests with extraordinary facilities, such as separate living room, fireplace or Jacuzzi.

Our restaurant serves a lavish buffet breakfast every day and always offers varied menus for lunch and dinner. Our chef carefully selects fresh, local ingredients for our deliciously tasty dishes. Castello Camemi fills the heart with echoes from the past and modern comfort, where elegance is perfectly combined with the informal and intimate warmness of the well-known Sicilian hospitality.

The magic of the rooms and the kind, professional and discreet staff make guests feel at home while traditions, culture and art attractions of the surroundings will enrich the spirit and allow for a memorable stay at Castello Camemi.

THE STRUCTURE
Its impressive front view adorned with merlons and a triumphal arch opening into a courtyard, once used for horse-drawn carriages, invite guests to cross the threshold of the Castle and experience a trip into the past embellished by its unique charm.

The Castle is square-shaped and features a majestic facade including the “piano nobile” and a magnificent, green, inner courtyard with flagstone pathways. Its center point is shadowed by an old carob tree, heart and symbol of the Castle.

Outside, gardens and pool are surrounded by an elegantly quiet and simple country scenery, where the scent of the land, the colors of nature, the fresh, smooth grass, create an intimate, regenerating paradise. The charming hall features medieval architecture and classic furniture. Here, in the colder days the big, old fireplace is like a magnet and invites guests to linger for a while.

HISTORICAL FACTS
Castello Camemi was a fourteenth century fortification owned by the noble family of the Ventimiglia, and a summer residence of the viceroys since 1412 until 1830. The Ventimiglia were an important noble family, owner of many castles in Sicily, just to name a few : Geraci, Gangi, Castelbuono, Buscemi and the principalities of Belmonte, Buonriposo, Castelbuono, Grammonte, Ventimiglia.

At the beginning of the Aragonese period they were so powerful that succeeded to opposethe power of the king, with the help of other noble families. The County of the Ventimiglia extended over half of Sicily from the Madonie Mounts until the foothills of the Nebrodi Mounts.

The earthquake of 1693 destroyed a large part of eastern Sicily. Castello Camemi was thus built again in the XVIII century. Camemi mansion has always played a central role in the life of the surroundings, and has often been cited by Giovanni Verga in the novel “Mastro Don Gesualdo” and in the tale “Pane nero”.

After a long, careful conservative restoration using original materials according to bio architecture concepts, Castello Camemi is now a wonderful boutique hotel and a well-known location for events, appreciated by guests from all over the world.

THE POOL
Our pool is located in the garden in front of the reception lying on the lawn like a white and blue rectangle. It is the ultimate “relaxing area”, the place to enjoy the sun, swim, read or meditate. Here you can breathe the almost forgotten pure air, and let the breeze blowing even in the warmest days cuddle you.

In the sun or under the shadow of a gazebo you will enjoy the quiet of these hills while listening only to sounds of nature, with a good cocktail in your hand…why not! For lunchtime, it is the ideal place for a light meal and a glass of wine. During party nights, in the charming setting of lighted lanterns and candles, the pool gets bright and colorful while guests chill out, have drinks and food, talk and listen to music.

THE TERRACED GARDEN
On the right side of the walkway to the courtyard, a magnificent terraced garden stands on two levels offering a stunning view from the surrounding pastures to the nice village of Mineo, until Mt. Etna. Our guests can relax, have an invigorating massage, play ping pong, bocce or mini-golf, a small outdoor playground for children is also available not far away.

Bicycle and horse excursions can be organized from here. The terraced garden is also the setting of elegant buffet dinners, dancing parties, open bar nights and much more…It is also a place for civil wedding for some lucky couples.

THE COURTYARD
The courtyard is a big square place surrounded by the walls of the Castle. It features a lush lawn and a flagstone pavement. Most of all, it is the heart of Castello Camemi life, in fact it is the way in and out to rooms, lounges, restaurant and “piano nobile”.

At the same time the courtyard is our guests’ favorite place, the area of the Castle they want to live and enjoy more, should it be for relaxing, an aperitif, a dinner in the candle light, or welcoming guests for their banquet.

Our big carob tree is the centerpiece of the courtyard, and of Castello Camemi. It seems to embrace and protect all the court with its leafy fronds. The enlightened carob tree at sunset is a breathtaking view for those who enter the main gate, it rises on the place where the old well was, like a Life Tree it is the source of all the magic energy of this place.

IMPERIAL ROOM
Located in the “piano nobile”, this gorgeous Suite was once called “the room of secrets”. The big fireplace in front of the bed and the precious furniture make it majestic. It features a private entrance from the courtyard and a view over the gardens and the hills around, King-size bed, double pillows, elegant antiques, pitchstone bathroom with bath.

The kitchen on this floor can also be rented for private use. Imperial Suite n.14 is ideal for those who love relaxing in front of the enchanting heat of the fireplace in a large, confortable and exclusive room, with luxury complimentary toiletries, perfumed candles and impeccable

JUNIOR SUITE
Made of wood and local stone, Junior Suite n.7 differs from other rooms due to its cosy character and the feeling of intimate shelter that creates. It consists of a lounge with sleeper sofa and a comfortable mezzanine with Queen-sized double bed, it is thus ideal for family stays allowing for privacy. Here also, the bath is “open” and made of stone with a big Jacuzzi.

DINING ROOMS
Where the old granary store was once, nowadays you find the main hall of our restaurant. Here, a careful restoration and a refined decor have created a unique and charming hall, made of high barrel vaults, thick walls of white local stone, pitchstone floor from the XVII century, bright colours and large picture windows to admire the beautiful Sicilian landscape with the Etna in the background.

Guests can also dine in another hall of the Castle, more elegant and formal, the “piano nobile” lounges, and enjoy the unique pleasure of tasting our dishes in an intimate and charming home atmosphere, among sofas, armchairs and old books. In good weather, our guests love having lunch in the shadow of the carob tree or dinner under the stars in the courtyard, breathing the unique, pure air of this place.

GOURMET EXPERIENCE
Passion for gourmet food is another distinctive feature of the style, philosophy and hospitality of Castello Camemi. High quality ingredients, respect for seasonality, search for organic and “farm-to-table” foods are the basic principles of our menus, cooked to perfection by our skilful and passionate Chef Anna Sinagra.

Beef is sourced from local farms using non-intensive breeding, where animals pasture in the open air, daily fresh fish is sourced from Catania Gulf, vegetables are chosen according to season and taken wild when possible, like farmers used to do, finally many Italian food excellences enrich our menus.

Our cuisine wisely combines Sicilian culinary tradition with innovation in techniques and combinations, and aims at enhancing taste and beauty of the dishes, without useless elements. The wine list is the result of a careful selection of the best Sicilian labels and most important national wines, it has been studied to finely pair your food. Restaurant is open at lunch and dinner, reservation is requested.

A MAGNIFICENT DELIGHT OF SCENTS AND TASTES
Between the scent of readymade coffee and sun rays that introduce the oncoming day, our guests’ wake up is delighted by a gorgeous buffet breakfast made of sweet and savoury food, with a large variety of homemade marmalades and honeys, typical bread, juices, yogurt, muesli, fresh fruit, eggs, cold cuts, typical cheeses and everything you can wish to start in the best possible way a day of vacation. On request, we can prepare our valued gluten free guaranteed recipes.

THE ART OF MAKING YOUR SPECIAL DAY A FABLE TO TELL
Castello Camemi, so rich in charm and history and with its professional staff, so careful to guests’ wishes, is the ideal venue for unforgettable weddings and any kind of event, in good taste and great style.

Whether intimate or big parties, success is assured by beauty and elegance of our spaces. Whether summer or winter, morning or evening, gardens and halls of the Castle allow for varied and dynamic parties in order to involve guests arousing their curiosity and marvel.

From welcome aperitif until desserts, we create gourmet routes to satisfy all our guests’ senses, with a perfect use of all spaces accordingly with the event. Outside, terraced garden, pool and solarium where a lush lawn lies as a carpet, are spacious, simple and elegant at the same time.

The courtyard is enchanting and reminds country style and noble ambiances from olden times, however we are sure that our services, always up to date, will take you back to present time.

The impressive restaurant hall can contain from a small number of guests to several hundreds thanks to its peculiar shape, while the old fireplace lounge in the Hall and the classic style lounge at the “piano nobile” ensure a warm welcome even in winter. Success of our events is not olny due to the beauty of the Castle, in fact our gourmet cuisine, varied buffet menus, skilled staff committed to the job, are our real source of pride.

A NEW STYLE FOR MEETING
Castello Camemi is an old fashionedcountry resort with the welcome attitude of olden times, capable to hostevents that are normally organized in other kind of resorts, in fact we have our own style. Conferences, company meetings, art exhibitions, photo shooting, movies, spots, video clips are the events we host and succeed to organize.

TERRITORY
The Sicilian art, cultural and natural heritage is so rich in art attractions, historic sites, nature amenities, food and wine routes that can meet all travelers’ expectations. Besides art and cultural itineraries many holiday alternatives are available for those who are fond of nature, sport, health and fitness, tranquility and meditation, or traditional food.

Castello Camemi is located in the area of Vizzini, birthplace of Giovanni Verga, the famous writer. It is 30 minutes far from Catania and Comiso airports, and many tourist attractions are easily reachable, such as Etna, Caltagirone, Catania, Modica, Noto, Piazza Armerina, Ragusa, Scicli, Siracusa and Taormina. Our staff can organize transfers and guided tours for all the excursions.

TAORMINA
Taormina has been the most famous tourist destination in Sicily for decades. It was founded by the Greeks in the IV century BC and built on a promontory, surrounded by an astonishing panorama from the Volcano Etna to the Baia di Schisò. Taormina is known as “the pearl of the Ionian sea”

At the beginning of ’900, Taormina became famous all over the world both for its natural beauties, colors, panoramic view from the snowcapped, smoking Mt Etna to the sea, and for its coteries, transgressive lifestyle and unrestrained “dolce vita”.

This is the reason why the most famous noblemen, businessmen, showmen and artists, and all those in love with the “good life” chose it as their home place. Its exclusive character has been decreasing in the last decades, but it is definitely coming back again over the last years. Take a walk in the main street full with shops and among its steep narrow streets, or enjoy the lively nightlife.

Historic and cultural amenities are available too, such as churches and old palaces that join Arab and Norman styles and above all, the Greek Theatre, a magic scenery that today is the venue for several concerts. Seaside is beautiful too, particularly the famous beach of Isola Bella.

AGRIGENTO
Agrigento was founded around 580 BC. Over the centuries, it has suffered many dominations that left traces all over the island. Its historic center is located in the west summit of the hill, where the ancient Girgenti rose.

Nowadays many medieval buildings remain, such as churches, monasteries, convents and noble palaces. It is worth to mention the Cathedral of San Gerlando from XI century and the Sanctuary of San Calogero What makes Agrigento famous all over the world is the Valley of the Temples, Hellenic age wonder and the most important archeological site in Sicily.

It comprises the remains of ten Doric temples, three Sanctuaries, a huge group of necropolis, several water works, such as the Kolymbetra Garden,Hypogea, fortifications, part of a Roman Hellenistic neighborhood built in Greek plan and two important meeting areas, the lower agorà and the upper agorà; it contains also an Olympeion (Temple of Olympian Zeus) and a Bouleuterion (council house) from the Roman age, in Greek plan. The Archeological site of Agrigento is the largest in the world, spreading over1.300 hectares.

CALTAGIRONE
Caltagirone is a little town perched on the top of Erei Mounts. It dates back to very ancient times, as it is proved by many prehistoric necropolises found in the area. Its history has always been linked to pottery production. The name is due to the Arabs, who conquered the town and named it”Qal’at-al-jarar”/ Kalat al Ghiran”Castle of jars”,for the flourishing production of pottery craftworks.

It appears that Arabs introduced new working and decoration techniques and so enhanced the industry that had been flourishing since the prehistoric age, as it is proved by many artifacts contained both in the local “Museo della Ceramica” and in “Museo Paolo Orsi” in Syracuse.

The typical style of Caltagirone pottery has always been recognized and appreciated all over the world. Caltagirone pottery, both classic and modern style, is the flagship of Italian craftwork.

Caltagirone houses important architectural pieces of art: from rich palaces in the historic center to the Borbonic prison, from the uncountable churches, such asCathedral of St. Julian, church of “San Pietro”, of San Francesco di Paola, to San Francesco bridge and staircase of Santa Maria del Monte, masterpiece realized by local ceramics masters, real symbol of the town.

PIAZZA ARMERINA AND VILLA ROMANA DEL CASALE
The monumental complex known as Villa Romana del Casale is about 5 km far from Piazza Armerina. It is a luxury dwelling dating back to the late-Roman age, that has been found out just at the end of nineteenth century, and brought to light between the 1920s and the 1950s. It consists of a majestic and asymmetric complex of buildings with a pleasant sinuous design made of gradients, exedras and staircases.

The lowest levelcomprises a thermal complex and a big exedra-shaped lavatory; the second level includes the peristyle and the living areas; the third level contains the room with the tri-apsidal triclinium and the xystus; a fourth group of buildings contain private apartments and the basilica hall that opens on a longambulacrum

The Villa features over 3.500 sq metres mosaic floors and the most extraordinary and largest example of mosaic decoration, whose complexity has no comparison even in the big group of mosaics of the Tunisian Roman Villas. Once visited Villa Romana del Casale, it is worth visiting the near, little city of Piazza Armerina.

There, take a walk along the streets of its historic center and the medieval streets, you will be astonished by the impressive bulk of the Cathedral towering the city, the austere Aragonese Castle, the elegant Trigona Palace, and many other palaces and churches you can find at every turn.

MODICA
Modica is a magnificent town,included in the Unesco World Heritage list. It is located in the Southern side of Iblei mounts and consists of two urban centres: “Modica alta”, upper Modica, whose buildings are perched on the rocky mountain; “Modica Bassa”, lower Modica, in the valley below where the main street Corso Umberto is located now.

Few testimonies of the “former town” remain: the gothic portal of“Chiesa del Carmine”; ruins of “Chiesa di Santa Maria del Gesù” from sixteenth century; “ Cappella delSacramento” from fifteenth century; ruins of the old castle. The rocky church of “ San Nicolò inferiore” from twelfth century has been recently found out and contains important decorations dating back to 700 until 1500

The late Baroque is the architectural style that characterizes Modica,due to reconstruction after the earthquake in 1693. Many churches and palaces of great architectural value are spread around the town, above allit is worth to mention “Duomo di San Giorgio”, “ Chiesa di San Pietro”, “Palazzo della Cultura” that houses “Museo Civico Archeologico” with the famous bronze statue of “Ercole di Cafeo” from the III century BC, “Palazzo Polara”, “Palazzo Grimaldi”, “Teatro Garibaldi”

Modica is unique and charming not only for its elegant baroque style but also for its fascinating narrow streets andlively, refined atmosphere. It is also well known for its food excellences, above all for the Chocolate of Modica, that distinguishes for the cold working, in which sugar does not melt but remains in its crystal form. In addition to classic recipe, several types are available enriched with varied aromas: cinnamon, chili, vanilla, ginger, citrus etc.

RAGUSA
In the last few years Ragusa has become more and more popular among tourists, all over the world. The city wasdivided in two urban areas after the catastrophic earthquake in 1693. Ibla, the old town was built in the same place as the former one, while the first group of buildings of “Ragusa Superiore” (upper Ragusa) rose on the hill.

Ibla looks like a beautiful, large crib when you approach it from the street above, especially in the night, while when you walk along the streets downtown it looks like an elegant party, because of all nice clubs and cultural events.

Among the places to visit we mention “Duomo di San Giorgio”, “Portale di San Giorgio” a magnificent arch from fifteenth century and “Chiesa di Santa Maria dell’Itria”. Downtown in “Ragusa Superiore” is interesting too, full with things to see and do, it spreads around the “Cattedrale di San Giovanni” from eighteenth century.

SCICLI
Scicli is another Word Heritage Site in Sicily. It is more than an elegant small town, it is like a pearl nestling among three valleys and steep rocky hills. It goes without saying, here the scenario is unique. Its origins are very old, probably dating back to more than three thousand years ago, in fact signs of rocky settlements can be found in many caves and grottos.

In addition to the prehistoric settlement of Grotto Maggiore, the late byzantine settlements of Castellaccio and Chiafura are noteworthy too. Above all Scicli is famous for its baroque style: Palazzo Beneventano is stunningly beautiful,as well as Palazzo Fava and Palazzo Spadaro, and all churches are enchanting too, such as San Bartolomeo, San Giovanni,Santa Maria la Nova, the little rocky churches. A walk through these wonders and many museums, exhibitions and art galleries, makes it clear that Scicli is also a place for contemporary art and painting.

NOTO
Noto is considered the capital of Baroque, its stunning, harmonious beauty makes it look like a theatre scene. It was built again after the earthquake of 1693, 10 km far from the former one. Its three main streets run east to west so that the sun can always shine on them. Each street is thought for different social class use, the highest for the nobles, clergy in the middle, the people in the lowest.

Buildings are majestic and built with local calcareous stone, tender and compact, whose whiteness has been darkened by the passage of timethus creating the present, impressive golden and pink shades, daily enhanced by the sundown light.

Entering through “Porta Reale” you can admire masterpieces of art such as the Cathedral,“Chiesa di San Carlo”, “San Domenico” and only to cite a few, Palazzo Ducezio, Palazzo Nicolaci and “Tina Di Lorenzo” Theatre , and every corner of this small city is interesting. The Flower festival held on every third Sunday of May is very beautiful.

VIZZINI
Vizzini lies on the southern border of the province of Catania, surrounded by the typical landscape of Iblei Mounts. It was one the most ancient settlements in Sicily, over the centuries it has suffered many dominations leaving a considerable art heritage that can be seen nowadays despite the catastrophic earthquake of 1693.

Exquisite churches and palaces are scattered along the steep streets climbing the mounts, their baroque style merges with rural buildings’ style from early XX century. Among the most famous attractions we recommend the visit of “Duomo di San Gregorio Magno”, “Basilica di San Giovanni Battista”, the “Madonna Bianca” inside“Chiesa Santa Maria di Gesù”, and the staircase in the main square with its ceramic painted stair risers.

Vizzini is also the birthplace of Giovanni Verga, the famous writer father of Italian Verismo.Squares and narrow streets are the setting of some of the most important novels of Verga, such as Cavalleria rusticana ( Rustic Chivalry), Mastro don Gesualdo, La Lupa, Storia di una capinera ( History of a capinera ).

Many inscriptionson city walls recall these novels. The town’s vertical design offers superb views, from the upper side of the town a parched panorama merges with the view of the centenary roof tiles, giving a feeling of traveling back in time.

MARINA DI RAGUSA AND PUNTA SECCA
For those who wish to spend some time on the beach, we suggest to go to Marina di Ragusa, the best equipped and well known seaside city in southwestern Sicily, whose long sandy coastline offers many beach clubs and bars and a modern tourist harbor too.

For several years now Marina di Ragusa has been awarded with the Blue Flag by FEE (Foundation for Environmental Education) for the seawater and coastline quality as far as services, safety features and environmental education are concerned. It has been awarded also with the “Bandiera Verde”, an assignment proposed by the Italian pediatricians that award the child friendly beaches in Italy.

Some kilometers away from Marina di Ragusa you find the little and quiet fishing village of Punta Secca and its beautiful sandy beach where the famous house of Commissario Montalbano is located,destination of thousands of tourists fond of this television series and Camilleri stories. It is also a place for spectacular sunsets.

Rooms: 14

Price: from 224 EUR per night

Source: www.castellocamemi.com