A stay at Chaza is the perfect opportunity to discover southeastern Sicily through authentic experiences related to the land, nature and local traditions.
WHAT TO DO
Pottery workshop in Caltagirone
With Dario Piluso – Ceramiche Baroquè
After an introductory walk up the famous steps of Santa Maria del Monte, participants will be welcomed inside the “Ceramiche Baroquè” craft workshop. The experience includes a detailed explanation of potter’s wheel techniques, coloring and glazing, followed by the opportunity to model a pre-formed object.
Cooking Class Sicilian cuisine
With Baglio Occhipinti
Fausta Occhipinti and the chef of Baglio Occhipinti invite you to take Sicilian cooking classes to rediscover traditional recipes: Cooking classes are dedicated in particular to the preparation of fresh pasta or “Scacce ragusane” (stuffed flatbreads) baked in a wood-fired oven in a convivial atmosphere. The cooking class can also have a variation on desserts with a special course to learn how to prepare the famous Sicilian cannoli.
With Emilia Strazzanti
Emilia Strazzanti, a chef trained in patisserie and haute cuisine in the United Kingdom and Paris, welcomes you to her homeland for a unique gastronomic workshop. In the heart of Scicli, the class begins with a hands-on workshop: traditional doughs, fresh Sicilian pasta and the preparation of arancini are guided by family stories handed down by Sicilian and Neapolitan grandparents. Accompanied by local ingredients – ancient flours, fresh ricotta, oil and citrus fruits – the workshop continues with a convivial lunch where you can savour what you have created together.
Hiking in the Ippari Valley
With Giuseppe Gatto
A walking tour in the unspoiled nature of the Ippari Valley, departing from Vittoria or directly into the valley. The experience includes an initial introduction to the naturalistic and historical context, followed by a hike of medium ease within the Riserva Naturale Orientata del Pino d’Aleppo.
Mini trekking to the Neviere
With Livio Rabito
A 4.5-kilometer nature walk with departure and arrival from the Chiaramonte Pineta. The route crosses paths leading to the ancient Neviere, traditional structures once used for snow storage. The guide will provide naturalistic and historical explanations along the way.
Cinabro workshop of Carrettieri
Artisans of the Sicilian cart
Guided tour of the historic Cinabro craft workshop, guardian of the Sicilian cart tradition. Visitors will get a close look at the masters at work, admire period tools, learn about decoration techniques and hear the history of this ancient craft.
Workshop on Modica Chocolate
A trip to Modica is not complete without tasting its famous chocolate, unique in the world for its “cold” processing that leaves sugars and flavors intact. Stops not to be missed include Antica Dolceria Bonajuto, the oldest chocolate factory in Sicily, and Sabadì, a young excellence that combines tradition and creativity.
Scoglitti fish market at the “varcuzze”
An experience not to be missed in Scoglitti is the characteristic fish market at the “varcuzze.” Every morning, as the boats arrive, fishermen sell the day’s catch directly in an authentic and lively atmosphere. A unique opportunity to discover the flavors of the sea and experience the local seafood tradition up close. Ideal for those seeking authenticity, true stories and the freshest produce.
EATING and DRINKING
Chiaramonte Gulfi – U’ Dammusu / Majore ∗ Vittoria – La Gorda ∗ Scoglitti – Vivere / Sakalleo ∗ Comiso – MUG ∗ Marina di Ragusa – Vossia il mare / Eretico / Vota Vota / Baqqalà ∗ Punta Secca – Scjabica / Cucina Costiera ∗ Donnalucata – Caromelo / Mezzaparola ∗ Scicli – Prosit / Ummara ∗ Modica – Radici / Enoteca Rappa / Ristorante Lorenzo Ruta
WHAT TO SEE
Beaches
The southern coast of Sicily offers a wide variety of seascapes, where unspoiled nature, golden sands and small fishing villages alternate, creating an ideal itinerary for those seeking relaxation, beauty and authenticity. Among the must-see destinations are the Randello and Irminio River nature reserves, true corners of biodiversity overlooking the sea. They are followed by seaside resorts with typical Mediterranean charm such as Punta Secca, Marina di Ragusa, Donnalucata and Sampieri, each with its own identity and atmosphere. The Riviera Lanterna closes the route, with the beach of Scoglitti, where the long shoreline and shallow waters make the bathing experience suitable for all types of travelers.
Villages and Architecture
The Iblei territory holds some of the most fascinating towns in southeastern Sicily, where art, Baroque architecture and local traditions come together in scenery of rare beauty. Ragusa Ibla, Modica and Scicli, recognized as UNESCO World Heritage Sites, offer a journey through stone alleys, majestic churches and panoramic views. Chiaramonte Gulfi, known as the “balcony of Sicily,” offers breathtaking views of the hinterland, while Vittoria stands out for its cultural dynamism and food and wine tradition. Scoglitti, finally, combines the urban dimension with the maritime one, with its fishing port and lively summer atmosphere.
Museums and Art Galleries
Edoné art gallery
Edonè Arte Viva Club in Vittoria is an exhibition space and cultural center that hosts contemporary art exhibitions, installations and multidisciplinary projects. It promotes emerging creativity and dialogue between visual arts, design and photography, with a program curated by artists and professionals in the field. Initiatives and events take place throughout the year. Free admission.
Gesualdo Bufalino Foundation
The Gesualdo Bufalino Foundation in Comiso houses the writer's library with 10,000 volumes, including original annotations and manuscripts, and multimedia works. It promotes his literary legacy through exhibitions and conferences. Guided tours by appointment.
Oil Museum
The museum is housed in the lower levels of Palazzo Montesano, in seven vaulted rooms; these rooms feature tools of olive oil extraction technology, everyday objects and ingenious devices, specific to rural images and environments. Admission is available by appointment Tuesday through Friday.
Civic Museum of Natural History
The museum features an extensive collection of fossil and zoological artifacts that were recovered as a result of missions that led to the discovery of 15 new species including fossils and present-day animals.