Little Gem No. 127 | Sicilian Rooftop Living

At the top of the Santa Maria delle Scale steps, Casa Valentine opens onto the rooftops, church towers and valleys of Ragusa Ibla. Behind its modest façade, a restored 1930s house unfolds across three floors, bringing together original local stone, collected furniture and art. Above it all, a private rooftop terrace offers a wonderful place to spend time at home, looking out across the old town and the surrounding landscape.

The Space

The restoration has allowed the different periods of the house to remain visible. Original pietra pece tiles, the dark stone characteristic of the Ragusa area, have been preserved and reinstalled. Restored stone arches, worked by local craftswomen, sit alongside simple contemporary additions.

In the kitchen, an exposed stone vault curves above wooden shelving and everyday ceramics. Upstairs, the living room brings together books, artwork, textured rugs and carefully chosen furniture. It is a house of considered details, where old materials and more personal touches sit comfortably together.

The house is rented in its entirety and accommodates up to four guests. It has a fully equipped kitchen, Wi-Fi, air-conditioning and heating, as well as a separate laundry room with a washer and dryer.

The Bedrooms

There are two bedrooms, each with an ensuite bathroom, a private balcony and views across the town and surrounding landscape.

Muted colours, upholstered beds and simple linens give the rooms a restful feel. A separate guest WC adds to the practical comfort of the house.

The Outdoor Area

Completed in 2023, the private rooftop terrace is one of Casa Valentine's great pleasures. With its own kitchenette and views across the rooftops of Ibla and the valleys beyond, it is a natural place for breakfast, an afternoon with a book or an aperitivo as the light changes.

There is room to bring dinner upstairs and stay a little longer, watching the town settle into the evening.

The Location

Casa Valentine sits along the historic stepped route connecting upper Ragusa with Ragusa Ibla, with Piazza Duomo around twelve minutes away on foot.

Exploring begins at the doorstep. Follow the stairways down through narrow lanes and small squares, stop for coffee or find a table for lunch. The architecture, churches, gardens and everyday life of Ibla are all part of the experience.

The house is also well placed for discovering south-east Sicily, with the towns of Modica, Scicli and Noto, as well as the coast around Marina di Ragusa, within reach. There is plenty to explore, although Ragusa itself deserves several unhurried days.

What Makes It So Special

I love the way this house brings together its original details and the things that have been collected over time. The old stone, the beautiful floors, the art and furniture all give it a real sense of character. And then there's the rooftop terrace, where you can sit above the rooftops of Ibla and enjoy a view that is hard to tire of. It's a lovely place to come back to after a day spent wandering around Ragusa and the surrounding towns.

Price Indication

Approximately €290–€330 per night for the entire house, depending on the season. Minimum stay: three nights. Cleaning is included; local tourist tax is additional.

Bookings

For availability, more information or to book directly, click the Availability button above. It will take you straight to the owners.

Nearest airport

Comiso Airport: approximately 30 km / 20 minutes

Catania Airport: approximately 90 km / 1 hour 20 minutes

Good to know: The house extends over three floors, with stairs connecting the different levels. Free parking is available nearby on Corso Mazzini.

Photography Credits: 

Filippo Bamberghi @filippobamberghi -  Rodney Ye @rodneyye