Discover the wonders of Sicily in just 48 hours (a local's guide)

One look at the Casa Lawa website, and you will discover that a short synopsis would scream the word colour. This colourful paradise effortlessly combines vibrant statement pieces with a relaxed and refined cosy base. Purchased by Lukas in 2021, the property was initially built in 1812 and was once a grape press. Exuding historical richness, Lukas has transformed it into a delightful vacation destination that will recharge your soul.

Previously living in vibrant Amsterdam, Lukas and his partner Merijn operated an Airbnb, inviting guests from around the world to stay with them. Within one of Lukas's Instagram posts, he explains that this experience transformed the way they travelled, as they began to view travel through the eyes of a host. Fast forward to today, they have used their experience to create the enchanting Casa Lawa.

Casa Lawa has two spectacular rooms to choose from. The sea room offers a window opening up to the Sicilian sun rising over the sea. With the option of a swim in the pool (conveniently located right at the doorway) or a bath, this room offers the ultimate in relaxing and recharging.

The lava room is spacious, boasting old lava stones and a striking chestnut floor. This room also has a high-beamed ceiling and, of course, marvellous interiors.

At breakfast, we discuss the plans for the day. Today, the first item on the agenda will be a joint shopping trip to the local market. Second on the list will be a pasta workshop with our guests, followed by a home-cooked meal. On the way into town, we'll stop at Pasticceria Russo – an old, traditional pastry shop run by an 85-year-old lady and her husband. Entering the store, we are immediately greeted by the smell of freshly ricotta-filled cannoli and the noisy coffee machines. Like every day, we are surrounded by the locals enjoying il caffè. That scene brings me pure joy. 

On the way back to Casa Lawa, we'll stop at the local bakery, where the Forti family has been baking for over 150 years. They bake their bread in a traditional wood-fired oven. The fire burns so hotly inside the oven that the walls are white-hot. This usually takes one to two hours, depending on how big and how cold the oven is. The charming owner, Salvatore, shows us around and invites us to try his ciabatta bread.

After all the hiking, we'll ground ourselves again with a delicious snack and refresh with a glass of volcanic wine. Around 2.30 pm, we'll do a quick pit stop at Casa Lawa for a nap under the cherry tree. Then, rested and refreshed from a quick hop in the shower, it's time for some wine. The local winemaker, Etnella, is run by Davide, with whom we have previously made 400 litres of cider from our own apples and pears. Chin Chin.

We'll drive to Solicchiata, where his wine cellar is located—the way there is postcard beautiful. In the distance, we can notice the outlines of the Taormina and vineyards as far as the eyes can see. Once at the winery, Davide will give us a tour of the cellar and tell us all about the unique wines of Etna – Bianco and Rosso. After some wine tasting, we'll head to dinner at a local pizzeria, Sandro's Cave Ox. The restaurant has a great selection of wines, delicious sourdough pizza, and homemade pasta. 

We end the day with a few more glasses on the beautiful terracotta terrace under the vines. After dinner, we will be picked up by a driver who will return us safely to Casa Lawa. Home sweet home.

Q: What colours do you gravitate towards in your home? 

A: I listen to my own intuition and trust my guts rather than following trends or recreating something that already exists. I love primary colours, which is also how I designed Casa Lawa's brand identity. Blue, red, yellow, and green are my favourite colours. With a hint of earthy tones.