In Montalbano Elicona (ME), named Italy’s Most Beautiful Village in 2015, just a short walk from Frederick II’s castle, the Basilica of Santa Maria Assunta and San Nicolò Vescovo (the Cathedral), and a breathtaking viewpoint, lies Helikon—“the traveler’s retreat”—a short-term rental property.
Here, time seems to have stood still.
The residence, skilfully renovated in keeping with local tradition, is equipped with every comfort; the stone blended with the antique wood creates a warm and magical atmosphere, ideal for a relaxing and pleasant stay.
Furthermore, the old hearth will transport you back in time and let you feel the warmth of family life once again.
The double room, located on the ground floor of the Helikon—the traveler’s retreat—is spacious and inviting; the warm wooden floor complements the surrounding furnishings beautifully.
The queen-size bed is very comfortable and comes with fine cotton linens.
A cot or cot can be added to this room type.
The twin room, also located on the ground floor of the property, features two comfortable beds set among alcoves and distinctive architectural details.
The desk in the room, along with Wi-Fi, can also be used as a workspace.
Amenities include: Wi-Fi, flat-screen TV, coat rack, extra pillow, towels and slippers, welcome amenity kit (shampoo, soap, shower cap), hair dryer, refrigerator, coffee maker, microwave, kitchen, sewing kit.
The property is located right in the heart of the historic centre, allowing you to visit the main attractions simply on foot. Among the most notable, we recommend:
- Medieval Resort with its little houses scattered throughout a maze of narrow streets;
- The Swabian-Aragonese Castle, featuring its Museum of Arms and Musical Instruments
—including stringed instruments, psalteries, and hurdy-gurdies—while the most extraordinary feature of the entire castle is the Byzantine-era royal chapel, which, according to some scholars, houses the remains of Arnaldo da Villanova;
- The Minor Basilica of Santa Maria Assunta and San Nicolò Vescovo, which houses a sculpture of Saint Nicholas and a delightful ciborium, both in marble and attributed to the school of Gagini, a 15th-century wooden crucifix, and a “Last Supper” attributed to the school of Guido Reni;
- MedioExpo, a museum area featuring medieval costumes and artefacts;
- Eugenio Belfiore Museum, an interesting visual history of Montalbano;
- Church of Santa Caterina, with its beautiful Romanesque portal; inside, it houses a fine marble statue of the saint resting on a precious bas-relief pedestal, attributed to the school of Gagini.
Montalbano Quad Excursions—don’t miss the guided tours to the Bosco di Malabotta Nature Reserve and the Argimusco rock formations with their megaliths, a complex of enormous boulders of uncertain origin, perhaps the remains of a prehistoric village.
Finally, be sure to visit the 14th-century Church of the Holy Spirit, near Porta Giovan Guerino, and the Sanctuary of Maria Santissima della Provvidenza, with its wooden statue of the Madonna, which the faithful carry on a litter in a procession on August 24.
Just a stone’s throw away is the “Portello” viewpoint, offering panoramic views of the Nebrodi peaks, Capo Milazzo, and the Aeolian Islands.
Come to Montalbano to experience art, nature, culture, and the Middle Ages.
We look forward to seeing you!!!
