Private stone retreat with garden in the historic centre of Modica
Hortus is an elegant private retreat coming from the renovation of an enchanting 16th century stone building close to the cathedral of S. Giorgio, in historic centre of the UNESCO baroque town of Modica. It features a wonderful secluded garden with fruit-trees, heated jacuzzi, dining area with bbq, lounge-terrace, 3 bedrooms with en-suite bathroom, living room and kitchen with underground wine cellar. Decors with local stones, clay and lime floors and wall coatings, vaulted ceilings, contemporary art and ecological solutions combine with ancient features to create a unique environment where to relax and enjoy the Sicilian atmosphere in total privacy. Our services include transfers, private chef, massages, cooking class, local guides, winery visits, chocolate tasting, electrical bike rental.
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Amenities
Hot tub
Kitchen
Washing machine
Dryer
Free WiFi
Air conditioning
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The host requires you to complete the following before checking out:
Load and start the dishwasher
Gather used towels
Remove personal items, remove leftover food and drinks and take out the rubbish
Turn off the lights
Leave the kitchen clean and the house tidy before check-out
Agree your departure time and wait for our staff for check-out
Separate wastes and dispose them outside according the municipal calendar - Never leave inside wastes that could have been disposed or put wrong wastes outside (fees might be applied)
Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.
late check-in after 8pm is available on request at extra price
for longer stays (more than 14 nights) an additional cleaning fee of 100 euros/week will be required
Important information
You need to know
Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
This property accepts cash
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
This property uses solar energy, plus eco-friendly cleaning products
Host has indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit and a deadlock
Please note that cultural norms and guest policies may differ by country and by property; the policies listed are provided by the property
Property Registration Number IT088006B482CHK4KU
About the area
Modica
Located in Modica, this villa is in the city centre. The area's natural beauty can be seen at Sampieri Beach and Ispica Cave, while Museo Casa natale Salvatore Quasimodo and Chocolate Museum of Modica are cultural highlights. Vini di Olindo Giuseppe and Labirinto del Castello are also worth visiting. Discover the area's water adventures with scuba diving and snorkelling nearby, or enjoy the great outdoors with mountain biking and hiking.
Is Private stone retreat with garden in the historic centre of Modica pet-friendly?
No, pets are not allowed at this property.
How much does it cost to stay at Private stone retreat with garden in the historic centre of Modica?
As of 17 Apr 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Private stone retreat with garden in the historic centre of Modica on 15 June 2026 start from AU$563, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.
What time is check-in at Private stone retreat with garden in the historic centre of Modica?
Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.
What time is check-out at Private stone retreat with garden in the historic centre of Modica?
Checkout is at 10:00 AM.
Where is Private stone retreat with garden in the historic centre of Modica located?
Located in the heart of Modica, this villa is within a 5-minute walk of Duomo di San Giorgio Modica, Corso Umberto I and Castello dei Conti. Museo Casa natale Salvatore Quasimodo and Church of San Pietro are also within 10 minutes. Modica Station is 22 minutes by foot.
Reviews
9.6
Exceptional
Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
A really beautiful property that provides modern conveniences in a wonderfully atmospheric, historic setting. Luca and Lorenzo were both very helpful, and the sprawling outdoor courtyard with fruit trees was amazing. Highly recommended.
Michael S.
Stayed 6 nights in Oct 2019
Verified
8/10 Good
Robert S.
3 May 2019
Wonderful
Great place! Ancient decor features were very appealing. Courtyard was especially enjoyable. Property manager was very helpful in parking, assisting with our luggage, and being available for any request. Bedrooms did not have adequate storage for personal belongings. It would also be helpful to advise perspective users that location requires ascending 40-50 or so stairs. Would love to stay again!
Robert S.
Stayed 5 nights in Apr 2019
Response from VrboOwner on 18 Mar 2020
Dear Robert, thanks for your kind review, just for a correct information to other guests: each bedroom has its own wardrobe and so far no one has found the space inadequate, unless maybe one is traveling with very big luggage. Also, the property can be reached from the main street in a few minutes and in two different ways, either uphill with stairs or downhill without any stairs, depending on where you park your car. Anyway I am happy you enjoyed the place and our service. All the best, Luca
Verified
10/10 Excellent
Alberto B.
26 Sept 2018
Días maravillosos en Modica
Estuvimos en Modica 8 días en la maravillosa casa Hortus. Esta casa es un magnífico lugar de descanso. Un paraíso para los sentidos con su espléndido jardín de árboles frutales. La casa está distribuida con exquisito gusto y tiene un sinfín de detalles que te dejan con la boca abierta. Los dormitorios son de dimensiones generosas y el principal es de ensueño. Las zonas comunes son magníficas. Y el jardín.... ese jardín con vistas a la catedral donde desayunar, comer y cenar... es maravilloso en general.
Luego el servicio es fantástico con un Lorenzo Falco completamente entregado.
Aconsejable 100%
Alberto B.
Archival
10/10 Excellent
Catherine G.
2 Nov 2016
A Beautiful Oasis
We stayed here for 2 nights, would have stayed three- but it wasn't available. Modica is a charming historic town that needs to be visited, but to truly enjoy it's ancient charm and wonderful restaurants it's best to stay there. And this was the perfect place, a very old home that has been beautifully redone with an artist's touch. It has everything you need. But the absolute best part is its enchanted garden with its fruit and nut trees. It is totally private but set within the city so you can hear the church bells and the chatter of your Sicilian neighbors which allows you to experience what it's like to live like a local. We spent an entire day there reading and relaxing. The home is a bit tricky to find, but Luca and his team have a great system in place that makes it easy to get you there.
Catherine G.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2016
Archival
10/10 Excellent
Nick C.
6 June 2016
Magical
We were 3 couples who stayed 3 nights in Luca's apartment. We were met by Amalia at a prearranged meeting place close to the center of Modica. We followed Amalia in our 2 rental cars to a parking spot a few paces from the apartment. We entered through the main gate and found ourselves in what on first impression was a scene from " the magical garden". The house was no less impressive. Clean, airy and with every convenience necessary. The architecture reminded me of the archways in Bologna where I had studied years before. We were sad to leave both this apartment and the city of Modica which we most certainly enjoyed. Hopefully we will visit again. Thank you both again Amalia and Luca. Peace Nick
Nick C.
Stayed 4 nights in May 2016
Response from VrboOwner on 18 Mar 2020
Dear Nick, i am really grateful to you for your beautiful feedback of your stay. Unfortunately I did not manage to meet you in person on this occasion, but I hope to do it next time, maybe in Bologna, my birthplace, or in Rome where I have my art studio Or why not in Iceland if we will organize a travel over there…. thank you for your kindness, arrivederci a presto! Luca
About the host
Hosted by Luca Giannini
I am a Rome-based artist and I am the founder & manager of Anime a Sud properties in Sicily. When travelling I am always looking for special places to stay, boasting authentic atmosphere, details of character and special charme, never being formal or stereotyped. This is right the basic concept of Anime a Sud abodes: outstanding homes where the ancient features combines with natural materials, contemporary touches and handicraft design to let you experience a unique stay. Welcome to a new way of living in Sicily
Why they chose this property
This exclusive, ancient property with secluded garden will give you the chance to live in total privacy and quiet despite being immersed in the historic center
What makes this property unique
Ecological materials, bioarchitecture, local handicraft and contemporary art add a unique touch to the retreat, which is able to offer a authentic experience in a refined atmosphere, with high-end services and top privacy