Monaci delle Terre Nere

Via Pietralunga / Via Monaci , 95019 Zafferana Etnea, Italy

Rating:

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Guest reviews: 9.1

Monaci delle Terre Nere Overview

First Impressions

Honestly, when I first pulled up to Monaci delle Terre Nere on the slopes of Mount Etna, I wasn’t quite sure what to expect. The approach through Zafferana Etnea winds through citrus groves and volcanic stone walls, and then suddenly you’re at this five-star luxury retreat that feels like it’s been carved right into the landscape. The ancient monastery buildings have been transformed into something genuinely special — you know, the kind of place where modern luxury meets authentic Sicilian character without feeling forced.

The Equestrian Experience

What really sets this place apart for horse lovers is the way they’ve integrated riding into the whole Etna experience. The stables are impeccably maintained, and the horses — mostly sturdy local breeds — know these volcanic trails better than most guides. I spent mornings riding through ancient lava flows and pistachio orchards, with Mount Etna looming overhead in ways that photos just can’t capture. The staff actually knows horses, not just hospitality, which makes all the difference when you’re planning longer rides.

Accommodations and Atmosphere

Each room feels like a private sanctuary, with thick volcanic stone walls that keep things naturally cool and windows that frame either the mountain or the coastline stretching toward Taormina. The design is sophisticated without being stuffy — local ceramics, contemporary furniture, and those incredible terraced gardens that seem to cascade down the hillside. There’s a spa built into what used to be the monastery’s cellars, and after a day in the saddle, those volcanic stone treatments are pretty much heaven.

Dining and Local Flavors

The restaurant here does something I rarely see done well — it actually showcases the unique terroir of Etna’s volcanic soil. Everything from the wine (they have their own vineyard) to the vegetables has this distinctive mineral quality that you only get at this elevation. Chef sources ingredients from the property and nearby farms, so you’re tasting pistachios from trees you rode past that morning. The breakfast spread includes local honey, fresh ricotta, and those incredible blood oranges that grow in the volcanic soil.

Why Guests Love It

What keeps people coming back isn’t just the luxury or even the horses — it’s the way this place connects you to Sicily’s landscape in such an authentic way. You’re not just staying near Mount Etna; you’re living with it, riding its slopes, tasting its influence in every meal. The fact that there’s secure parking for trailers means serious equestrians can bring their own horses, though honestly, the resident horses are so well-trained for these specific trails that I’d recommend riding theirs. It’s the kind of place where you plan to stay three nights and end up extending your trip because leaving feels impossible.

Hotel Highlights

Image 2 of Monaci delle Terre NereImage 3 of Monaci delle Terre Nere

Reviews

Staff: 9.5

Comfort: 9.4

Location: 9.3

Free WiFi: 9.5

Facilities: 9.2

Cleanliness: 9.3

Value for money: 8.3

Rimma from United States (22 November 2025)

10/10

property is fabulous, service was impeccable and very friendly. Restaurant was amazing for dinner, although breakfast was just ok. Wish we had more time to explore the property and do some activities (wine tasting, horse back riding, etc.) Very pleased, would love to be back. What could be improved: The hotel is about 20-30 min by car from the...

Rimma from United States (22 November 2025)

10/10

property is fabulous, service was impeccable and very friendly. Restaurant was amazing for dinner, although breakfast was just ok. Wish we had more time to explore the property and do some activities (wine tasting, horse back riding, etc.)
Very pleased, would love to be back.

What could be improved: The hotel is about 20-30 min by car from the city, so the driving back and forth in traffic was about annoying. If you want to mainly explore the city, this is probably not the place, but if you want to unwind and relax-definitely recommend it!

Sanders from United States (11 November 2025)

10/10

This was our favorite property during our 3 weeks trip. Simply stunning property with truly an amazing staff. We were generously upgraded at check-in. Dinner in the restaurant was 5 stars, and Roberto was fun to share wine knowledge with us. We were in a Villa, which was one of the most beautiful rooms Ive ever stayed in. What could be improved:...

Sanders from United States (11 November 2025)

10/10

This was our favorite property during our 3 weeks trip. Simply stunning property with truly an amazing staff. We were generously upgraded at check-in. Dinner in the restaurant was 5 stars, and Roberto was fun to share wine knowledge with us. We were in a Villa, which was one of the most beautiful rooms Ive ever stayed in.

What could be improved: Nothing

Sheng-ya from United Kingdom (4 September 2025)

9/10

The estate is absolutely stunning_ a beautiful and spacious setting in a perfect location. The staff were warm and attentive, and both the restaurant and breakfast were very enjoyable. What could be improved: Some of the in-room facilities could be improved. The hot tub wasn’t the easiest to use, was a little noisy, and didn’t heat up quite...

Sheng-ya from United Kingdom (4 September 2025)

9/10

The estate is absolutely stunning_ a beautiful and spacious setting in a perfect location. The staff were warm and attentive, and both the restaurant and breakfast were very enjoyable.

What could be improved: Some of the in-room facilities could be improved. The hot tub wasn’t the easiest to use, was a little noisy, and didn’t heat up quite enough. The “private” pool is actually shared between three rooms – though still spacious, very pleasant, and large enough for proper laps. (If you’re expecting a pool entirely to yourself, it’s worth double-checking before booking.)

Luca from France (19 August 2025)

10/10

Monaci delle Terre Nere is the kind of place you remember long after you’ve left. Set on the slopes of Etna, the estate blends organic farming, refined design, and heartfelt Sicilian hospitality. Our room was spacious and serene, with lava-stone details, crisp linens, and views over citrus groves and the sea. Breakfast was outstanding—seasonal...

Luca from France (19 August 2025)

10/10

Monaci delle Terre Nere is the kind of place you remember long after you’ve left. Set on the slopes of Etna, the estate blends organic farming, refined design, and heartfelt Sicilian hospitality. Our room was spacious and serene, with lava-stone details, crisp linens, and views over citrus groves and the sea. Breakfast was outstanding—seasonal fruit, homemade cakes, local cheeses and honey—everything tasted genuinely fresh. Dinner at the on-site restaurant was a highlight: elegant but not fussy, with a superb Sicilian wine selection and staff who guided us perfectly. Throughout our stay, the team went out of their way to help with tastings and day trips; nothing felt scripted, just warm and effortless. The grounds are expansive and beautifully kept, perfect for slow morning walks or sunset cocktails. If you’re looking for a place that captures the essence of Etna—nature, flavor, and quiet luxury—this is it. We left rested, inspired, and already planning our return.

What could be improved: Nothing !! Everything was just perfect

Shelley from United Kingdom (16 August 2025)

10/10

The location of Monaci is simply stunning. The villas are spread out providing space and tranquility. The grassy pool area with the stunning vista is so special. Finally the food is amazing as is the restaurant space, and we were lucky enough to have a private cooking class with the head chef and guided tour through the gardens / cellar. We look...

Shelley from United Kingdom (16 August 2025)

10/10

The location of Monaci is simply stunning. The villas are spread out providing space and tranquility. The grassy pool area with the stunning vista is so special. Finally the food is amazing as is the restaurant space, and we were lucky enough to have a private cooking class with the head chef and guided tour through the gardens / cellar. We look forward to returning in the future.

What could be improved: Nothing.

Simon from Denmark (3 August 2025)

10/10

This place is just something special. Absolutely fantastic location with a magnificent view of vineyards and the sea. Here you can really relax and enjoy Sicily

What could be improved: Nothing

Rebecca from United Kingdom (27 July 2025)

10/10

One of the best hotels we have ever stayed at. Faultless.

Melanie from United Kingdom (13 July 2025)

10/10

Stunning location, exceptional level of service from all of the staff, incredible food and drinks. Absolutely flawless.

Adam from United Kingdom (25 June 2025)

10/10

It’s the third time I’ve stayed there in the last four years or maybe more. This has to be the best time and I’m talking about the finer details all falling into place. My room wasn’t so much as the room it was more villa outside pool more of a plunge pool, but perfect for a couple of people. Incredible views of the vineyards a decent view of Mount...

Adam from United Kingdom (25 June 2025)

10/10

It’s the third time I’ve stayed there in the last four years or maybe more. This has to be the best time and I’m talking about the finer details all falling into place. My room wasn’t so much as the room it was more villa outside pool more of a plunge pool, but perfect for a couple of people. Incredible views of the vineyards a decent view of Mount Aetna, but most of all it’s the individuals that I see each time I’m there the food is amazing the selection of wine very impressive and overall if you want to go and hide away in the midst of organic wine production it is a very peaceful place to go. You can find nightlife there. There’s a wonderful bar and they make the most incredible the negroni - another bar situated in front of the swimming pool which quite frankly if you’re up early enough it is one of the greatest sunrises I’ve ever seen. It has a notoriously good sunrise person speaking. I don’t want the fuss and the high-end pampering that that isn’t genuine that you can find in other high-end establishments as far as I’m concerned though the setting the people the architect the simplicity and yet five star throughout you can’t go wrong one visit will bring you back enjoy yourselves I have tremendously - Max is not gonna spell spellcheck this or read it back again cause that way you know it’s definitely not ChatGPT ha ha

What could be improved: Not enough water in the room to drink

Luisa from Italy (22 June 2025)

10/10

This is a paradise. We enjoyed every single moment of our stay. The room was an experience itself ... the best sunrise in my life. The sound of silence, priceless. A large Wine Estate surrounded by threes and orchards with a majestic view over the sea. I will come back very soon for a longer stay. The staff was attentive, kind and professional...

Luisa from Italy (22 June 2025)

10/10

This is a paradise. We enjoyed every single moment of our stay. The room was an experience itself ... the best sunrise in my life. The sound of silence, priceless. A large Wine Estate surrounded by threes and orchards with a majestic view over the sea. I will come back very soon for a longer stay. The staff was attentive, kind and professional. The best food I had in Sicily. Wonderful stay!

What could be improved: We loved everything!

Surroundings

What's nearby:

  • Monte Etna: 13 km
  • Radicepura: 10 km
  • Parco Jungo: 10 km
  • Parsifal Park: 15 km
  • Piazza di Fleri: 3.4 km
  • Piazza di Pisano: 2.8 km
  • Parco Monte Ceraulo: 13 km
  • Parco Avventura Etna: 6 km
  • Oratorio Parrocchiale: 3.8 km
  • Monti Rossi-Etna Adventure Park: 15 km

Restaurants & cafes:

  • Restaurant Il Casale di Sarro: 400 m
  • Restaurant Sabir Gourmanderie: 750 m
  • Cafe/bar Black Coffee and Long Drink: 1 km

Natural beauty:

  • Mountain Etna: 0 m
  • Forest Timpa di Acireale: 9 km

Public transport:

  • Train Carruba: 10 km
  • Train Guardia-Mangano-Santa Venerina: 7 km

Closest airports:

  • Naval Air Station Sigonella: 49 km
  • Catania Fontanarossa Airport: 30 km

Monaci delle Terre Nere Rooms

  • Estimated price from: $763. Deluxe Double Room with 1 extra-large double bed for Max persons: 2
  • Estimated price from: $997. Junior Suite with 1 extra-large double bed for Max persons: 2
  • Estimated price from: $1,097. Suite - Separate Building with 1 extra-large double bed for Max persons: 4
  • Estimated price from: $1,570. Villa with Private Pool with 1 extra-large double bed and 1 sofa bed for Max persons: 4
  • Estimated price from: $2,186. Suite with Private Pool with 1 extra-large double bed and 1 sofa bed for Max persons: 4
  • Estimated price from: $2,371. Monaci Pool Villa with 1 extra-large double bed and 2 sofa beds for Max persons: 4
  • Estimated price from: $2,617. Monaci Pool Suite with 1 extra-large double bed and 1 sofa bed for Max persons: 4
Image 4 of Monaci delle Terre NereImage 5 of Monaci delle Terre Nere

Facilities

View:

  • Garden view
  • View

General:

  • Shuttle service Additional charge
  • Pet bowls
  • Pet basket
  • Designated smoking area
  • Air conditioning
  • Non-smoking throughout
  • Wake-up service
  • Hardwood or parquet floors
  • Heating
  • Soundproofing
  • Private entrance
  • Car hire
  • Packed lunches
  • Soundproof rooms
  • Family rooms
  • Facilities for disabled guests
  • Airport shuttle Additional charge
  • Non-smoking rooms
  • Wake up service/Alarm clock
  • Room service

Kitchen:

  • Coffee machine
  • Electric kettle

Bathroom:

  • Toilet paper
  • Towels
  • Bidet
  • Bath or shower
  • Slippers
  • Private bathroom
  • Toilet
  • Free toiletries
  • Bathrobe
  • Hairdryer
  • Shower

Outdoors:

  • Picnic area
  • Outdoor furniture
  • Sun terrace
  • Terrace
  • Garden

Wellness:

  • Personal trainer
  • Fitness classes
  • Yoga classes
  • Fitness
  • Full body massage
  • Hand massage
  • Head massage
  • Couples massage
  • Foot massage
  • Neck massage
  • Back massage
  • Spa/wellness packages
  • Spa lounge/relaxation area
  • Sun umbrellas
  • Sun loungers or beach chairs
  • Massage Additional charge

Activities:

  • Bicycle rental
  • Live music/performance
  • Cooking class Additional charge
  • Tour or class about local culture Additional charge
  • Happy hour Additional charge
  • Themed dinner nights Additional charge
  • Bike tours Additional charge
  • Walking tours Additional charge
  • Temporary art galleries
  • Badminton equipment
  • Evening entertainment
  • Horse riding Additional charge
  • Cycling
  • Hiking Additional charge Off-site
  • Table tennis
  • Children's playground
  • Skiing Off-site

Living Area:

  • Fireplace
  • Desk

Food & Drink:

  • Coffee house on site
  • Fruits
  • Wine/champagne Additional charge
  • Kid-friendly buffet
  • Kid meals Additional charge
  • Special diet menus (on request)
  • Snack bar
  • Breakfast in the room
  • Bar
  • Minibar
  • Restaurant
  • Tea/Coffee maker

Room Amenities:

  • Socket near the bed

Languages spoken:

  • German
  • English
  • Spanish
  • French
  • Italian
  • Russian

Cleaning services:

  • Daily housekeeping
  • Ironing service Additional charge
  • Laundry Additional charge

Safety & security:

  • Fire extinguishers
  • Smoke alarms
  • Key access
  • Safety deposit box

Media & Technology:

  • Radio
  • Telephone

Reception services:

  • Invoice provided
  • Private check-in/check-out
  • Concierge service
  • Luggage storage
  • Tour desk

Business facilities:

  • Fax/photocopying
  • Meeting/banquet facilities Additional charge

Great for your stay:

  • 2 restaurants
  • Parking
  • Private bathroom
  • Pets allowed
  • Free WiFi
  • Air conditioning
  • View
  • Free parking
  • Family rooms
  • Airport shuttle

Outdoor swimming pool Free!:

  • Seasonal
  • All ages welcome
  • Infinity pool
  • Pool with view
  • Shallow end
  • Pool/beach towels
  • Pool bar
  • Sun loungers or beach chairs
  • Sun umbrellas

Entertainment and family services:

  • Kids' outdoor play equipment
  • Board games/puzzles
  • Babysitting/child services Additional charge

Parking Free private parking is possible on site (reservation is not needed).:

  • Valet parking
  • Electric vehicle charging station

Other for your stay:

  • Linen
  • Wardrobe or closet
  • Extra long beds (> 2 metres)
Image 6 of Monaci delle Terre NereImage 7 of Monaci delle Terre Nere

House Rules at Monaci delle Terre Nere

Pets:

  • Pets are allowed on request. Charges may be applicable.

Groups:

  • When booking more than 4 rooms, different policies and additional supplements may apply.

Check-in:

  • From 15:00
  • Guests are required to show a photo identification and credit card upon check-in

Check-out:

  • From 11:00 to 11:30

Age restriction:

  • The minimum age for check-in is 18

Cancellation/prepayment:

  • Cancellation and prepayment policies vary according to accommodation type. Please check what conditions may apply to each option when making your selection.

Monaci delle Terre Nere Location

Via Pietralunga / Via Monaci , 95019 Zafferana Etnea, Italy

Send Us a Message

Fill out the form below, and one of our concierge specialists will get back to you promptly.



    Looking for the perfect place to stay?
    I'll help you find the best stay in Sarro, Italy!