After the scorching August heat in Sicily, we were looking for a small retreat surrounded by nature — and we found a true gem. The masseria is nestled among olive groves, cypress trees, and lush forests. The owner, a genuinely kind and passionate young man, runs the place with great care — and he's also the chef of the on-site restaurant. That alone was a revelation. Traditional Sicilian cuisine is reimagined here with a fresh, elevated touch. The flavors, presentation, and attention to detail are nothing short of Michelin-level. The beautifully restored masseria is full of charming details and immersed in nature. Birdsongs during the day, starlit skies at night — it’s a place where time slows down, and every moment feels special.

The peace and tranquility of this hotel was very calming. The bed was very comfortable and we slept so well on our stay. Irene was always contactable and happy to manage a small issue with the shower. The pool is set in the garden with sunbeds surrrounding, again peaceful, and it is cleaned regularly. Evening lighting changes the colours in the pool which was a nice touch. The restaurant is both outdoor and indoor. The balcony is light and pretty, airy and perfect for breakfasts to take in the surrounding vista. Breakfasts are varied, plentiful incredibly tasty and served by such pleasant local staff ( the saffron infused honey and jams are amazing). The restaurant menu is wide ranging and the food is outstanding, all prepared and cooked by Alessandro, the proprietor. It is patronised by local residents a long side guests which is always a good sign. Being an hour from the coast, fish is not on the menu as an option (as ingredients are fresh and locally sourced) but can be ordered for the next day if requested. It is rural and therefore beautiful but you will need a car (or bike) to explore the island, Syracuse, Noto both 50mins-1hr and other interesting places about 30mins. Thank you so much Irene and Alessandro and we wish you continued success with your beautiful hotel.

Take some mossie spray.

We loved the laid-back atmosphere, the restaurant and the wild boar!! We would love to go back!

We had a wonderful stay at Masseria Fortificata Lo Zafferaneto and would certainly go back again. If pressed, I would say that the pool and the pool area could have been tidier / cleaner (it would benefit from a bit of gardening / lawn mowing if nothing else). Furthermore, the air conditioning struggled in our family room and was not at all effective which made it hard to sleep. Given the remote location (which was a huge bonus for us), it was a shame that the restaurant was not open at lunchtime but we understand the commercial decision behind this. Apart from the a/c, none of these other things really affective the enjoyment of our stay and we had a wonderful time.

The breakfast was varied and of a high quality, to cater for all diets and tastes. This included freshly made pastry and their speciality bread. The service was particularly good and friendly with experienced staff. The host, Alessandro is a talented chef, with locals coming from miles around to have dinner here. On the Friday night this included live music and much of the produce is grown onsite or sourced locally. The saffron theme ( Il Zafferaneto ) is in the bread, the cocktails and many dishes. His partner, Irene, is a great front-of-house hostess. You feel you are on an oasis . Very relaxing and fun and made to feel welcome by all. This also made the other guests relaxed and on good form. Grazie !

Directions could have been a little clearer, when we were nearby, but that made finding it all the more fun. Outside of that it was all good .

Beautiful “fortress” hotel, rooms decorated very authentically, amazing hosts who gave great tips for things to see. I asked Irene, if i can find massage in the area, she organized a therapist, who arrived to the hotel (70€) and helped me with my back pains. The restaurant with nice food, starting to serve it a little late for my taste (8 pm), but it’s Italy.

The bed was not that comfortable, the blanket had traces of blood on it. A little dark in the rooms, but in summer it’s probably a benefit in Sicily

Lovely, family-run, quiet and classy spot. Very friendly and flexible service. We interrupted their family eating dinner at one point, looking for a coffee, and the lady of the house said "No problem, no problem... tell me ANYTHING" which was the cutest and also a good summary of the service :-) We were in rooms 1 and 2; both clean and spacious and comfy; a little quirky and creaky and random stairs, doors and shutters... all the stuff that made it special. The food was the best we had during our week in Sicily; all the more fun because we didn't have to go anywhere for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. (Note: There *isn't* anywhere to go... but if there had been we still would have stayed put because it was too wonderful to leave). Don't expect a "cheap" meal; it's a quality restaurant and the prices are reasonable and appropriate for what you get. Pro tip: ORDER THE ORANGE AND ONION SALAD. Grassy area around a little pool with a few lounge chairs, nothing to see but hills and cactus and a few little lizards. If you prefer to visit a friend than stay in a hotel, you will love this. In this case, a friend with good taste who lives in a very old authentic Sicilian house and happens to be an amazing chef :-)

We thought the pool was open but it was too early in the season (April); maybe check with the owners before you go if the pool is important to you. We had a great time anyway but if we were staying for longer that would have been disappointing (we were traveling with a kiddo).

Highly recommended for a family trip with kids, we also took our dog and everyone from the staff was very nice and kind. The breakfast here is the best and most plentiful, real genuine sicilian produce. The place itself is really relaxing and the rooms comfortable.

We preferred if the dinner would be served earlier like at 7pm, because the restaurant opens around 8pm and for us is late, especially when we have a child to feed.

It’s beautiful and the surrounding are wonderful. The staff were fantastic with the right balance of attentive and giving you space. Food was the best we had in Sicily.

The pool could have more sun beds although it might take away from the quiet feeling

La Masseria is a place surrounded by nature and the structure takes you back in years. When life was enjoyed in simple ways, friends and great food. The emphasis is on the food and starting from breakfast and dinner you are treated with traditional recipes away from the Salamis and cheese which you can find everywhere. If you enjoy eggs benedict, then try the saffron version offered here, as it is cooked to perfection and the saffron flavour blends really well. Pier Paolo is a welcoming person and ready to help in every occasion. We also dined here on Easter Sunday and the menu offered a good selection of items, with every plate served with attention to detail. Buccheri is also great area with many towns close by which you can easily reach by car.

Wow what a place to stay. When I made the booking I was not sure what we were going to get but to say what we got was amazing. From the place it self to the staff, to the food and even there pet dog Luna. My husband had family in town but did not know where to look for them. It was by chance that the owner of the place knew my husbands family and went out of his way for us to meet up. To the point they went out of their way and drove us into town so we could spend the day with our family I could not recommend this place highly enough. Every body went out of there way to make sure our stay was a memorable one. We were only there for two days but we felt like we were at home. To the point we left very early the next day and they Irena made us a take way breakfast for us to eat on our journey so we do not go hungry. I highly recommend that if you have the opportunity to stay at this place defiantly do so you will not regret it our score 20/10 If you get the chance try the snails they were amazing

Having to leave such a beautiful place