We had a bit of trouble finding our way to the farm but Silvia was ever-so-patient as I repeatedly called to clarify our directions. Silvia’s farm is a real working farm where olives, almonds, wheat, beans and other organic produce are grown. It sits on 90 hectares and is beautiful, peaceful and quiet. Everywhere you look there are flowers of all varieties growing- many beautifully scented. It’s a joy to sit and look across the property and beyond. It was wonderful to finally meet Silvia, whom I had only communicated with via email. She is a warm and very genuine person. We spent an afternoon at the pool then went for a walk outside the property with the resident dog Lola following us. We enjoyed a delicious meal with Silvia and her equally friendly husband Bruno. Dinner consisted of homemade ricotta; thinly sliced zucchini with olive oil, salt and pepper; stuffed cherry tomatoes; a pasta casserole with eggplant, peas and sauce; then a third course of spedini; asparagus; fava beans and artichokes; and finally desert of homemade tangerine gelato. While the food was excellent, the company of and conversation with our hosts is what made the evening so memorable. Those are the moments travelling when one feels changed by the experience. That is something that rarely happens in a restaurant- no matter how good the food. We slept soundly in our comfortable though modest rooms. The next day after a lovely breakfast we purchased bottles of Silvia’s organic olive oil to give as gifts. If you find yourself in the center of Sicily-perhaps travelling from one end of the island to the other- be sure to stop for a night or more with Silvia. You won’t be disappointed.
