Rural yet far from rustic, a retreat to the hills of southern Sicily is a contemporary affair, though its traditional façade may fool from afar. Almost a blank canvas, rooms carved from Modican stone are a masterclass in ‘less is more’; their clean lines of ivory, sage and gingernut brown reflecting the symmetry seen across such an aesthetic boutique. As if Mother Nature’s art was framed in a gallery, beds are perfectly placed, looking upon only the best views spilling into each private oasis, making slow mornings all too easy.

For architect Corrado Papa, a refreshing design for the modern age doesn’t come without hints of local history, however. Untouched by the sands of time, a 19th-century chapel still stands at the heart of the resort, echoing features found in nearby baroque towns.

The closest, Noto, is just a 15-minute shuttle ride away (complimentary, of course), where immersion into the real Sicilian Baroque begins with brioche and granita at Café Sicilia. Late May is the most exciting time to visit, when the festival Infiorata adorns the already striking Via Nikolaci in a colourful floral display.

Away from authenticity, a peaceful air invites relaxation on returning to the resort. Fine dining awaits at Principe de Belludia, whose seven and nine-course tasting menus take inspiration from across the globe. Their competition? The friendly atmosphere of Casa Pasta, where still-oven-warm breads and local olive oils set the tone for evenings of high-end homeliness. One thing’s for certain, Sicilian wines are always on the menu, no matter where you take a seat.