Massimo Villa Collection Launches Luxury Portfolio in Sicily

For some of the finest self-catering accommodation in Sicily look no further than new villa rental specialist, the Massimo Villa Collection. With over 50 sumptuous villas ranging from contemporary seaview residences to rural hideaways, there is something to suit all styles and budgets. Long gone are the days of rustic charm and old-fashioned furnishings, instead expect chi-chi styling, top-class facilities and modern décor.

Located in the most beautiful areas of Sicily by national parks, beaches and historic villages, from Cefalu in the north to Noto in the south, the Collection includes something for parties of all shapes and sizes whether private villas for two or a large celebration house sleeping 24. Over 90% of the properties have a swimming pool, and those that don't are within easy reach of the sea.

MASSIMO AT YOUR SERVICE

Book a stay with the Massimo Villa Collection to tap into their local Sicilian knowledge and benefit from the indispensible Concierge service. With an endless supply of insider tips for experiencing the best of Sicily, guests will be directed to the best beaches, historical sites, restaurants, little-known gems and local festivals. Plus a bulging contacts book means that babysitters, private chefs, yoga teachers and sommeliers are on speed dial.

The Collection has been hand-picked by founder director Massimo Provenza, who is from the historical town of Cefalu on Sicily's north coast. Massimo comments: “Being born and bred in Sicily, I know the island like the back of my hand. The Massimo Villa Collection is more than just a villa rental company - I hope to pass on my knowledge to visitors to help them get to know the real Sicily. My team and I will be at guests' service, be it organising a private cooking class to learn to make traditional Sicilian pastas, or arranging a guided tour of a winery.”

SICILIAN ESCAPES FOR 2015

Best for… Sea Views: Villa Palomina

Set high on a hillside near Cefalu, Villa Palomina enjoys jaw-dropping views over the coast. The stylish country villa has been lovingly restored with a coastal chic feel - think whitewashed walls, wooden beams and natural materials. Two double en suite bedrooms and a further room with four single beds make this the perfect accommodation for two families holidaying together. Outdoors, leisurely soak up the Sicilian sun in beautiful surroundings: relax on a lounger by the pool, dine on the shaded terrace, wander in the charming Mediterranean garden, or simply take in the gorgeous views. For local shops and restaurants, the coastal town of Cefalu and its long sandy beach is just a 15 minute drive away. Here, climb La Rocca and pause half way up at the 4th century Tempio di Diana, and again at the castle on top to enjoy 360 degree views over the old town and bay. Price: one week's self-catering costs from €1,900, sleeps 6-8.

Best for… Families: Villa Orizzonte Blu

Named after the uninterrupted views across the countryside to the clear blue sea beyond, Villa Orizzonte Blu is superbly located within a short drive of the Baroque city of Noto and some of the prettiest beaches on the island's south-east coast. Designed with families in mind, the villa is spacious and uncluttered with wooden beamed ceilings and natural stone walls, plus there are toys and dvds available to use and a set of bunk beds for kids. Outdoors there is a private swimming pool with loungers maximising the views and a covered dining area, great for keeping little ones cool in the heat of the day. Families are sure to love making homemade pizzas in the outdoor pizza oven. Price: one week's self-catering costs from €2,250, sleeps 8.

Best for… Couples: Villa Eden

This bucolic hideaway tucked away on the south-west of the island offers couples a romantic base for enjoying the best of Sicily. From the moment guests approach the villa they will feel the stresses of everyday life melt away as they relax into the peaceful surrounds. The property has two bedrooms, so plenty of room for couples to spread out. While the days away by the private pool with views over the countryside. For those that can tear themselves away, the beach at Selinunte is just a 5 minute drive away, there many vineyards to visit locally – Menfi is well-known for producing some fine wines – and a host of archaeological sites are nearby. Price: one week's self-catering costs from €2,000, sleeps 2-4.

Best for… Big Groups: Villa Degli Agrumi

A truly stunning Sicilian villa with panoramic mountain and sea views as well as nine en suite bedrooms, this is an ideal holiday home for large groups. Mixing rustic lava stone interiors with modern additions including a glass balcony, groups will enjoy the ultimate in luxury surroundings – there is even a caretaker here to ensure everything runs smoothly. There is plenty of space for guests to spread out: whether relaxing by the decked swimming pool; snoozing in the many snug seating areas; exploring the sprawling grounds where there is a nature trail and a variety of walks around the citrus groves; or hopping on one of the bicycles available to pedal further afield. Set in the north-east of Sicily, near Taormina, places locally well worth a visit include Mount Etna, Syracuse, Catania, the popular beaches of Marina di Cottone and Fiumefreddo, and the Alcantara Gorges. Price: one week's self-catering costs from €8,500, sleeps 18.

Best for… Walking: Villa Splendida

Enjoying the best of both worlds, Villa Splendida is set high in the hills above the buzz of Cefalu but benefits from a peaceful setting and panoramic seascapes. Spacious and largely open-plan with lots of splashes of sea blue, the property is split into a main villa with three double rooms and a guest annexe with a further double room. The living area opens out onto a decked terrace with swimming pool and sun loungers, where there is also an outside kitchen with built-in barbecue and a covered dining area perfect for alfresco meals. A lawn area and mature olive and pine trees provide further space to relax and soak up the views. Beyond the villa, there are beaches and local villages to discover, but a big bonus for those who want to explore on foot are the paths that lead from the gate towards the Madonie National Park, an area of outstanding natural beauty with a host of attractive trails to follow. Price: one week's self-catering costs from €2,500, sleeps 8.

Best for… Living like a Local: Terrazza Gabbiano

Bursting with character, this smart townhouse is set in a private ochre coloured palazzo in the heart of the bustling coastal town of Cefalu, perfect for guests who want to immerse themselves in local life. The former home of well-known local artist, Terrazza Gabbiano has recently been restored with white-washed wooden beamed ceilings, wooden floors and coastal coloured décor. Spread over five floors, all bedrooms feature a balcony, while the dining and sitting area with terrace is on the top floor to make the most of the views over the rooftops to the town and sea. A further highlight is access to a flat area on the rocks by the sea from the lower ground floor, where a dining table can be set up for a special meal. Price: one week's self-catering costs from €1,510, sleeps 8.

For more information on the Massimo Villa Collection visit massimovillas.com