June 26, 2025

Farm Life Comes First at This Agritourism in the Sicilian Countryside

A short drive from the golden beaches along Sicily’s southern coast and the ancient temples of Agrigento, olive trees and grain fields stretch as far as the eye can see. It’s an agricultural area where many families have been growing and harvesting crops for generations.

exterior at Azienda Agricola Mandranova in Sicily — Courtesy of Azienda Agricola Mandranova

That’s how the story of Azienda Agricola Mandranova began. It was previously the ancestral family estate of Giuseppe Di Vincenzo. In the late 1990s, he and his wife, Silvia, renovated it into an agriturismo. Today, with the help of their son, Gabriele, the boutique retreat, a member of Mr & Mrs Smith, open seasonally from late March to mid-November, remains a family-run operation that puts farm life first and invites visitors to experience the authentic charms and rich traditions of the Sicilian countryside.

Indoor dining area at Azienda Agricola Mandranova in Sicily — Courtesy of Azienda Agricola Mandranova

Besides hospitality, olive oil and almonds are the main focus at Mandranova. The property employs 15 year-round employees for the farm alone (that’s in addition to the 20 or so hospitality staff). Guests can participate in daily tours of the farm and the state-of-the-art olive oil mill and take cooking classes to prepare local dishes with ingredients plucked straight from the gardens. Expect aubergines, zucchini, peppers, and lettuce in the warmer months, and more hearty staples, such as fava beans, when the temperature dips.

Bedroom at Azienda Agricola Mandranova in Sicily — Courtesy of Azienda Agricola Mandranova

Dispersed between multiple buildings—including an old train station (back in the day, railroad lines used to cross the Sicilian countryside, connecting workers and land)—rooms and suites are decorated with heirloom furniture and overlook the central courtyard garden, inspired by the Orto Botanico di Palermo and showcasing both Mediterranean and African plants.

Main living room at Azienda Agricola Mandranova in Sicily — Courtesy of Azienda Agricola Mandranova

During the day, kick back at one of the tree-shaded tables. As dusk approaches, the lounge-like outdoor seating areas are perfect for an aperitivo before a home-cooked dinner under the night sky. The evening meal, a set four-course menu, is served at 8 PM. Tables are laid out to encourage mingling. The food is comforting and delicious. It feels like you’re being welcomed into someone’s home. The Sicilian wine flows. If there’s leftover risotto, someone will come out and scoop second helpings. The same from-the-kitchen-with-love philosophy applies to breakfast, where fresh-baked cakes, jams, almonds, extra virgin olive oil, and juicy fruit are on offer.

Dining room at Azienda Agricola Mandranova in Sicily — Courtesy of Azienda Agricola Mandranova

The dining room, mostly used in off-peak season, has dark tile floors and wooden tables. The main living room, lovingly referred to as the “winter garden,” features plush sofas, round tables, and a cabinet full of board games. There’s a second sitting area with a fireplace, framed family photos, and vintage suitcases.

On the other side of the farmhouse, the former olive oil production facility is now home to a modern mixed-use event, lounging, and book-filled library space. Vespas sit in the corners. Art adorns the walls. A pool table waits in the wings. Sofas encourage slumping down for a chat. For two weeks in July, it plays host to Mandranova’s artist-in-residence program. Past talents have included Luca Trevisani and Alexander Wagner.

Outdoor pool at Azienda Agricola Mandranova in Sicily — Courtesy of Azienda Agricola Mandranova

Set back in the hillside, surrounded by cacti that peek out of the dusty rocks, the old open-air cistern is now the site of a square infinity pool replete with a stone terrace and a cabana made of palm leaves. During the sun-baked summer months, it’s a welcome respite from the heat. Cue breezes and beautiful views.

the sun sets, the view is charming outdoor at Azienda Agricola Mandranova in Sicily bangla — Courtesy of Azienda Agricola Mandranova

If the pastoral, home-spun charm of it all wasn’t enough to encourage a digital detox, the lack of connectivity will do the trick. WiFi is limited to the common areas (yes, that means no scrolling Instagram and TikTok before bed). It’s a refreshing change of pace from the posting and liking loop. Besides, who needs social media when you have stunning nature and unlimited olive oil IRL?

Top Takeaways

Location: Palma di Montechiaro, Sicily, Italy

Rating: Four-Star

The Vibe: Family-run guesthouse with legit farming credentials and cuisine.

Food + Drink: The restaurant is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. While there’s no dedicated bar, the team mixes up cocktails and pours Sicilian wine.

Amenities: restaurant; pool; farm tours; olive oil tastings; cooking classes; lounges; library; artist-in-residence

Our Favorite Thing About the Hotel: The focus on farming, food, and family.

5 Nearby Attractions: Agrigento; Palma di Montechiaro; Licata; Riserva Naturale di Punta Bianca; RoccaTenna

Any Personal Neighborhood Recs? When selecting a farm stay, most travelers are looking to be a bit removed from the hubbub. That’s exactly what you get at Mandranova. But you’re also within driving distance of Palma di Montechiaro, which has some great restaurants, including Vecchio Mulino. For a beach day, head to Cala del Re to rent lounge chairs and savor seafood pasta at the restaurant.

Rooms: 13 rooms and suites

Pricing: Rooms start at $140/night

Closest Airport: Vincenzo Bellini Catania Airport (CTA)