Modica, Sicily, Italy
Yesterday was a long, long 5 hr. Ride from Trapani. Only bright spot was lunch at Auto Grill. Arrived at Casa Talia, relaxed by the pool and dined Osteria Di Sapporo Perduti
We awaken to a cacophony of bells- breakfast in the garden shaded by walnut and olive trees. Exceptional fare- fresh ricotta with grilled zucchini and mint, pane, fresh yogurt with granola, fruit, apple cake, kiwi smoothie and cappuccino.
Marco the owner welcomes us. We spent two hours listening to his incredible story- his dream of creating a hotel out of several cave houses. He is an architect , his wife Vivianna- an artist. They began this project in 2001 and are still expanding and creating more additions to this boutique hotel. The view of Modica is spellbinding. Only two drawbacks THE STEPS. (200 to go down) and the PARKING which is on a narrow uphill roadway
Marco the owner welcomes us. We spent two hours listening to his incredible story- his dream of creating a hotel out of several cave houses. He is an architect , his wife Vivianna- an artist. They began this project in 2001 and are still expanding and creating more additions to this boutique hotel. The view of Modica is spellbinding. Only two drawbacks THE STEPS. (200 to go down) and the PARKING which is on a narrow uphill roadway
We drive down- walk the city and then ride the Tremino Baroque which takes us to the old (Modica Alto) and New (Modica Bassa). These two cities are connected in a maze of narrow streets and staircases. We stop at Antica Dolceria and try chili chocolate- a specialty here.- different.
The devil resides in the gps system here- constant rerouting , looping round and round the tangled tapestry of streets. We drive to nearby Scicli and are frustrated with directions. A quaint, smaller city- home to many of Inspector Montalbano haunts ( an Italian book and tv series). Fish dinner at Baqqala. And then to Cannola for what is touted as the best cannoli in Sicily - agreed. We drive back along dark, winding roads and decide to tour only in daylight for the duration of this adventure.
And Suddenly It's Evening
Each of us is alone on the heart of the earth pierced by a ray of sun: and suddenly it's evening.
SALVATORE QUASIMODO (native poet of Modica)
Meridith
2024-09-27
What a perfect way to travel - getting to know the locals - spending 2 hours speaking with the owner. Enjoying your travel blogs! Thank you.
Susan
2024-09-27
Sounds like this is a great adventure. Glad you are having fun and exploring
Annie
2024-09-27
I have to give Charles so much credit for his bravery and persistence.... driving in Italy with a faulty GPS must be very scary. The hotel in the caves must be lovely and very different. I was wondering whether they are similar to the homes in Matera. Continue this amazing adventure. I look forward to your posts.
Siobhan
2024-09-27
Unbelievable adventures!!! How did you come up with such a great itinerary?! Did you stay in the “cave” resort? My favorite photos are you and Charles swimming in the ocean. 😊😊
Chuck Woods
2024-09-27
Those cannolis look absolutely wonderful! There was a dessert restaurant in Baltimore’s Little Italy we used to go to! I wonder if it’s still open!
Dotti
2024-09-28
Except for the driving and steps the visit sounds amazing. Can you bring a cannoli home-or maybe a few? Would love to see photos of the hotel in the cave. Such an adventurous itinerary!
Michael
2024-09-29
Good to get some steps in to prepare for having two of those cannolis. Looks incredible, I’m enjoying this journey from the sidelines!