If you’re looking for a quiet, countryside sanctuary to escape the hustle and bustle of daily life for a while, this charming apartment, set within a sprawling country estate in Ragusa, will tick every box for you. The home is simplistic – vaulted ceilings, exposed timber and a neutral palette make this a peaceful retreat that doesn’t try to distract from the beauty outside its doors. It oozes rustic charm, inviting you to step outdoors and revel in the beauty of nature that wraps itself around you. Rustle up a spuntino, with olives, a little bruschetta, meats and cheeses a must, and you can dine alfresco on your private terrace as the Sicilian sun warms your skin.

Stroll down to the communal pool area as the afternoon stretches on and bag yourself a sun lounger. Watch as the sunlight plays upon the surface of the water, enticing you in for a refreshing dip and some respite from the heat of the day. When you’ve had enough time in the pool, grab your holiday read and settle down for a quiet afternoon getting lost in a story – just don’t forget to tear your eyes away from the words every now and then. The undeniable beauty of the rolling countryside, olive groves and quaint stone walls is something not to be missed, after all.

If you can bear to leave this home and all of its wonderful 18 hectares, take a trip into Ragusa where you can enjoy ornate buildings and sweeping views. On a Wednesday, pop to the weekly market and stock up on some local delights to enjoy back at home. Immersing yourself in this location and the culture, you’ll feel utterly relaxed.

Home truths:
*Due to the location of this home, we recommend hiring a car to get the most out of your stay – there's private parking available on site
*Your host can provide a cot and high chair for free upon request
*Though there isn't a dedicated desk here, the dining table doubles up as a laptop-friendly workspace
*This home may be better suited to early risers – there are sheer drapes in the bedroom, so expect the natural light to wake you up
*There's a communal swimming pool and sun terrace you can enjoy in the garden (along with your own private terrace) – the pool isn't fenced, so children will need to be supervised at all times
*The swimming pool is only available for use between 1st April and 31st October