Enchanting and magical are often two words that travelers associate with Sicily.
Sicily, the biggest Mediterranean island and home to bountiful history as perceived in its well-preserved archaeological sites, is much more than its famous beaches, landmarks and ruins.
For as long as I can remember, I have wanted to tour the entire island and, certainly, I had the chance late last summer.
On its west side, I discovered a quintessential idyllic getaway: Masseria Susafa. It is a historic farmhouse deep in the picturesque and mountainous area of Sicily right by the Madonie Mountains.
Masseria Susafa is a century-old farmhouse that lies in serenity surrounded by a cluster of little hills. Seeing its surroundings myself reminds me of the rolling hills of Scotland. Never in my life did I expect such idealized mountain ranges in this part of Italy. And never did I expect to be swept away by the beauty of this simple yet sophisticated Masseria.
Masseria Susafa is a picturesque countryside resort. If you’re looking to unwind, reestablish your senses, and re-balance yourself with the help of nature, then this place is heaven for you.
Manfredi Rizzuto Saeli & Son, fifth generation farmers & owners, conserving and vitalizing Masseria Susafa.
It all started with the dedication of the original settlers from the Saeli-Rizzuto family in this region of Sicily. The land has always been beautiful but, centuries ago, the area wasn’t as peaceful as it is now. The family has always handled their farm with care and utmost excellence — at one point employing most of the people in the surrounding communities.
Fast-forward to the 21st century, their descendants have now taken over and have transformed the Masseria into a polished, world-class resort that respects its past while modernizing its amenities.
Arriving in awestruck and inspired by the gorgeous scenery from the drive, seeing Susafa for the first time was fascinating as it was almost otherworldly. It was a marvelous feeling being struck by its natural simplicity, and feeling magnetic by the magic that seems to live in this place.
We entered the grounds and was tranced by a sunset so vivid that we just wanted to sit at the rooftop and enjoy the natural colors of the sky for hours as it turned pink to purple to a deep orange and then finally a scarlet glow.
The pool glistened invitingly and instantly. We knew what we were going to do the following morning.
We were greeted in famous Sicilian hospitality by staff who toured us further around the grounds. Susafa is genuinely an elegant and serene hideaway for those seeking privacy and tranquility. Proper self-care is the emphasis here with their suite’s natural hues, done in a minimalist style. Aesthetic is everything and our suite here oozes with refined old world charm.
I had the sweetest of sleep in Susafa and, the following day, my experience was elevated to a charming level. Their breakfast spread was stunning, filled with fresh farm-to-table fruits and vegetables, homemade marmalade and jams, plentiful cheese and charcuterie, and a list of other palatable offerings. They even have a fruit and vegetable juicing corner. We got to pick our favorites and juiced them ourselves. What a feast, so early in the morning – this is how it should always be when you’re living your best life.
The land looks so different in the day! In the distance, one could see the historic homes of those that once worked the land for the family of the Masseria. Lovely little cows and their dainty bells seem to chirp amiably all day bringing music to the ears. What a splendid reminder of the pleasantries of simply being in the countryside.
Your stay in Susafa will be bewitching as it will be memorable. With only 14 bedrooms, exclusivity is key to its gentle rhythm. The ancient stone buildings tell a story of a bygone past. You will surely feel relaxed while surrounded by its handsome aesthetic amidst acres of out-of-this-world Sicilian landscape.
Activities abound ensuring your stay will be of sublime satisfactory. Choose from a menu of holiday pursuits such as a swim in the pool, an afternoon massage, cheese and wine tastings, or a walk within their gardens as I’ve done.
You can also indulge in cooking classes and have a taste of their farming culture through their wondrous food at the bar. Let me tell you, first hand, that their vegetable garden is a real treasure trove of the most uncontaminated vegetables I have ever tasted. This is the site of one of the sweetest tomatoes you will ever have in your life – grown in the heart of Sicily, far from urban pollutants.
Masseria Susafa offers you a peek of what life once was in Sicily in the most refined and chic way. If a tender, pastoral holiday is what you’re looking for, look no further. Susafa will be as mellow to your soul like a graceful poem – placid in its simplicity, but an experience filled with depth.
Thanks to SUSAFA Sicily | Contrada Susafa, 90028 Polizzi Generosa PA, Italy | +39 338 960 8713