8 bedrooms villa, 500 m²

Santa Maria di Licodia, Catania (province)

Rural tourism at the foot of Mount Etna: a fully operational accommodation business set amidst nature, history and agricultural production

In the heart of the Sicilian countryside, just a few kilometres from Catania and close to Mount Etna, a charming, fully operational rural tourism business is for sale, nestled within a natural oasis of approximately 9.5 hectares comprising olive groves, citrus orchards, walnut groves and woodland. The complex is built around a renovated old farmhouse, where Sicilian tradition meets modern comforts, with well-maintained spaces and unobstructed views: to the north, Mount Etna, and to the south, the Simeto valley. The property is ideal for those seeking a well-structured investment in quality tourism, with an established business, comprehensive facilities and a strong local identity.

The accommodation is well organised and ready for use: 5 elegant rooms with en-suite bathrooms and views, 1 detached wooden chalet with a kitchenette, living area, bedroom and small terrace, as well as a detached main house of approximately 300 m² (also described as a large master apartment), with spacious rooms and a terrace. The complex also includes 2 ruins, suitable for potential restoration or extension projects. The overall facilities are in line with a modern accommodation offering: ample parking, CCTV, internet connection and a solar panel system.

Hospitality, outdoor wellbeing and historical uniqueness: a lava-stone swimming pool and an Arab aqueduct dating back to the 11th century

The outdoor spaces are an integral part of the experience: a panoramic swimming pool set within a striking lava amphitheatre with a sunbathing area, lush gardens and relaxation zones surrounded by greenery, as well as a large panoramic terrace of approximately 200 m² surrounded by Mediterranean scrub. There is also a separate oven and barbecue area with a lawn, wood-fired oven and fountain: ideal settings for events, tastings, al fresco breakfasts and experiential hospitality.

A feature of great charm and historical value is the ancient ‘qanat’, an Arab aqueduct dating back to around the year 1000, carved into the lava rock and still visible with its supply wells: a rare distinctive feature, perfect for storytelling, cultural itineraries and premium positioning. The location is strategic: approximately 1.5 km from the motorway with quick links to Taormina, Syracuse and Catania; the Rifugio Sapienza can be reached in about 25–30 minutes.

Productive farm with development potential: olive trees, citrus fruits, walnuts, woodland and direct sales

The farm is an integral part of the investment and adds further value: approximately 4 hectares of olive groves producing extra virgin olive oil, a citrus orchard and a walnut grove with around 500 trees, fruit trees and a private woodland of approximately 3 hectares. Artisanal production for internal consumption and direct sales (oil, jams, olives) is active, with a cellar for product storage. The facilities include warehouses, tool sheds, agricultural equipment, room management software, hosting and a website, as well as a caretaker’s house and a mobile home for personal use. There are also two large irrigation tanks with associated systems.

With approximately 500 m² of net internal floor space, 34 beds and 7 bathrooms, this property represents a comprehensive and prestigious venture in Sicilian rural tourism. Thanks to the size of the land, there is also potential to expand the accommodation facilities, offering concrete prospects for development for those wishing to grow in the eco-resort, high-end agritourism or experiential hospitality sectors at the foot of Mount Etna.