Sunday, September 23, 2012

A Day at the Beach

Here are a few pictures of a gorgeous beach we visited today, near Siracusa. Being from North Carolina, it's strange to be able to enjoy a warm, sunny day on the beach in late September!


We went to the Fontane Bianche lido, right next to the Hotel Fontane Bianche. Since it is now the "off-season", the lido prices are reduced. It was also much less crowded than the lidos in August!

 
To the south are large rocks coming up out of the water, great for climbing and jumping off! Didn't get to attempt that on this trip, but it's definitely on the list for the next one!

 
This beach is about an hour away from Sigonella, but well worth the time. The drive is really easy, and mostly highway distance. For more information on the Fontane Bianche and driving directions, check the Links page!

Monday, September 17, 2012

Agriturismo = Delizioso

It's been a while since our last update, so we thought we would share our dinner experience from a few weeks ago!

Some time ago, we discovered an agriturismo very close to our house. We've been a couple of times, and it never fails to impress. The food is fresh and delicious, and the service and atmosphere is so relaxing and comfortable!

The last time we went, we remembered to bring our camera. But, as we were the only ones there at our reservation time, we were seated in a smaller area. So we didn't get photos of the huge dining room with antique decor, but don't worry--we'll definitely be going back!

The name of the place is Masseria Portiere Stella, and it is well hidden in the rural countryside. But, it's only a 10-15 minute drive from Sigonella!


 

Masseria Portiere Stella from the front, walking up the path. It is a farmhouse originally built in the 800s, that has been beautifully restored and filled with antique farm equipment and decor.    
This is the entrance from the courtyard. It opens into a bar, sitting area, and small dining area.
 
                       
 
The courtyard has beautiful landscaping, sitting areas, and cobblestones. There is also a pool, which guests can use during their stay, or you can also pay to come have lunch and swim without staying overnight.
 
                           
 

 Here we are at our table in the small front room. Past the bar is the way to the larger dining area.


That is the door leading to dining area and guest quarters. The decor is very cozy and like a home in this room. There are even couches and a small television.

 
Billy and the boys.
 

 
Antipasto dishes. The children get adult portions of the antipasto. In addition to the assortment on our individual plates, we also are served two side dishes.

 
Primo course, penne pasta. They always ask if Logan needs his own pasta dish, but he just shares with us! Landon gets an adult portion. We always have plenty to bring home. Our pasta was served with freshly grated parmesan, yum!

 
(Billy forgot to take a photo of the meat course! We were served pork chops and roasted potatoes.)
 
Dessert tonight was fresh fruit. Very simple and light, just what we wanted after all those courses!
 



We should note that guests do not place dinner orders at Masseria Portiere Stella. You simply call for your reservation (2 hours in advance), come in and be seated. The wine is local and provided with the meal, along with bottled water. The menu changes each time, but always includes bread, antipasto, two vegetable or rice side dishes, pasta, meat, and dessert. We would recommend NOT trying to clean your plate each time, because the antipasto alone is enough for a meal!

All of us love coming here to eat. If you're in the Sigonella area, give it a try!