7 Rooms

Part of the Palazzo Nicolaci, and hidden at the end of a gorgeous courtyard, this small hotel has a vivacious owner and a lot of style.

• The ultra spacious suites, with high ceilings and views of Noto
• The suites that come with a small balcony for morning coffee
• The fact that gracious owner Cristina Summa shares her personal terrace with guests for breakfast

Of the trinity of late Baroque towns (Modica, Ragusa, Noto), the latter is the most buzzing, with a handful of newish design shops, restaurants and hotels bringing new life to the historic setting. One of the first of these openings, in 2010, was 7 Rooms, a stylish boutique hotel that is housed inside a restored Palazzo. The spacious suites blend historic details with modern design, and have soaring ceilings and very nice bathrooms. Some come with private balconies, a wonderful place for an afternoon glass of wine. Breakfast is a congenial affair where guests mingle on the stunning terrace of the owner, who graciously shares her private abode with guests. It has unparalleled views of Noto.

Couples and friends traveling together who like an understated design style, do not need too many amenities and are looking to be based in one of southeastern Sicily's most charming towns, within easy driving distance to the coast and Syracuse.