Elevated on the cliffs of the Maddalena Peninsula, close to a working lighthouse, Delphina enjoys tremendous sea views. That’s true whether you’re relaxing beneath a palm tree in the sprawling gardens, splashing in the infinity-edged pool or taking an outdoor shower. The vistas can also be savoured while feasting on fresh salads or pizza secca on the patio, or sipping local Malvasia wine while reclining on the sun loungers around the pool. Once you’ve finished sampling the local cuisine, snuggle up in the suspended loveseat and watch as the sunset paints the sky a glorious shade of pink.

Inside, frequent splashes of blue amid easy-going white walls and natural-wood furnishings pays homage to the spectacular Mediterranean Sea backdrop. Headlining the villa’s ground floor is an open-plan room divided by a fireplace. To one side is the generous dining table; opposite is a summery lounge whose cushy sofas frame a large TV. The stellar kitchen neighbours both, and another lounge awaits upstairs. The four scattered, queen-size bedrooms are all ensuite with rainfall showers. Housekeepers attend daily, and a private chef can be arranged upon request.

Close by are fishing-village trattorias, while Syracuse – with its Greek and Roman theatres, charming old town and endless museums – is only a 15-minute drive away. Not far in the other direction is the Cavagrande del Cassibile nature reserve, where natural, swimmable green river pools dot a wild canyon. Warm until late-autumn, the remainder of southeastern Sicily specialises in beautiful baroque cities, like chocolate-making Modica, and sublime sandy beaches.