This small charming house is perched on the cliff to the west on the island of Ustica, near the well-known Grotta delle Barche, reachable more easily by sea than by land. The house is a private and quiet space consisting of two bedrooms, a lovely living room with sofas, and two small bathrooms, similar to the bathrooms of cruiser boats. At the back of the house, there’s a natural cave of a tennis court size.
The house is designed in a beautiful bohemian mix, with ancient Moroccan carpets decorating the floors of the cave, cozy sofas and large cushions, as well as furniture from antique markets and a massive wooden table sitting 20 guests. This space is a focal point of this home, a retreat from the heat of the day, ideal for reading, enjoying an aperitivo, listening to music, and relaxing. In the lowest part of the cave, a large double bed, protected by a mosquito net, enjoys a fabulous view of the sea.
Adjoining the main cave, there’s a smaller cave with a kitchen, completely encased in lava stone and finished with materials typical of Aeolian houses, and a pantry. The kitchen has access to a terrace where you can dine under the stars and also enjoy an outdoor shower with stunning views!
A staircase crosses a mature Mediterranean garden and leads to the laundry area, further down to a changing room with a shower, and, even further down, to a crystal-clear protected sea cove that takes the form of a natural swimming pool.
A scenic path, an integral part of the island’s nature trails, invites for a lovely fifteen-minute walk into town. The path, made up of sections of steps and beaten earth, is accessible but not lit up at night. For this reason, the house supplies include torches and headlamps, needed for walking the trail after dark.
Ustica, visible on clear days from the mainland, is the island closest to Palermo. Its name comes from the Roman term “Ustum”, which means burned, because of the volcanic rocks it consists of. The contrast between the deep black of the rocks and the charming blue of the sea is characteristic of the island.
Visit the extraordinary Ustica Marine Reserve. Its crystal-clear waters and rich marine biodiversity make it a perfect spot for snorkeling or diving. Explore the island’s charming historic center with its pretty narrow streets and traditional buildings. Enjoy the genuine ambience and discover the Church of Santa Maria la Stella and the prehistoric village of Faraglioni.
Take in stunning views from Punta Spalmatore, where the lighthouse is situated. This place boasts excellent vistas of the coastline and the surrounding sea. Explore the exciting caves and coves scattered around the island, such as the Grotta Azzurra and Grotta Verde, famous for their enchanting colors and unique rock formations. Visit the Archaeological Museum of Ustica to learn about the island’s history through artifacts and historical evidence, including prehistoric and Roman relics.
