L’Orangerie

If you wish to experience the true flavor of southern Sicily, a stay in the baroque town of Modica is essential. In the heart of town where the houses nestle between two facing hillsides, you find L’Orangerie, a 19th-century palazzo owned by the Cartia family. Walk up the steps from the main street to a small street which ends at the front doors of this charming and impeccable bed and breakfast. The guestrooms and bi-level mini apartments are spread over the two floors of the palace. The fresh décor combines the features of a historic home with antiques, fresco ceilings, contemporary furniture, parquet floors and modern bathrooms. Graphic art accents walls that are painted cream, forest green, coral and rust red. Some rooms have a terrace overlooking the lemon trees. Giovanni Cartia, whose family has owned the palazzo for several generations, offers warm hospitality and advice on where to go and what to see. Breakfast is served in the delightful kitchen with its hand-painted tiles. Guests often dine at the restaurant, Torre D'Oriente, savoring traditional cuisine and local sweet specialties including dark chocolate, cannoli, gelati and granitas.