Sicily conjures up emotions like few other places- the sun, the turquoise sea, the dizzying aromas, the warmth of its people. Although it would be like asking someone to choose a favorite among precious gemstones, many agree that the northern coast of the island is the most beautiful. Names like San Vito lo Capo and Cefalù have become synonymous with the allure that is Sicily. The coastal town of Balestrate is in between these two and is just 35 kilometers from the Palermo airport. The Casa Ruffino Bed & Breakfast is the perfect place to stay for your Sicilian adventure!
Casa Ruffino B&B
This elegant bed and breakfast has 5 lovely rooms with one being able to accommodate up to 5 guests. Each is exquisitely decorated and has a flat-screen TV and a private bathroom with a shower as well as air conditioning. Wi-Fi is also available throughout the entire building. Guests will enjoy the comfortable common areas such as the dining room and living spaces. A buffet breakfast is included with your stay and offers all the classic Sicilian delicacies from savory to sweet as well as gluten-free and vegan options.
Casa Ruffino is situated in the heart of Balestrate’s center where you’ll find plenty of shopping, restaurants, cafes, and gelaterias. You’ll also be just 800 meters away from the gorgeous beach of Balestrate that boasts a Green Flag award, meaning that it is perfect for young children. There are plenty of services here from bathing establishments to a trenino shuttle that will take you through town.
Balestrate, Alcamo, and Castellammare
The stunning beaches of Alcamo and Castellammare del Golfo are just 15 km away from Casa Ruffino. You can also venture into the old historic center of Alcamo which boasts a 14th-century castle and breathtaking views from its elevated position.
Scopello and the Zingaro Nature Reserve
Continuing along the coast toward Trapani, you’ll also be able to enjoy the beaches of Scopello as well as the Riserva Naturale dello Zingaro which is a 7 km protected area that extends to San Vito lo Capo. The only way to visit here is by boat or on foot, but the little hidden coves that dot this reserve are well worth the effort!
Trapani and Erice
Trapani is only about 30 minutes away from the B&B and offers a one-of-a-kind experience of seeing the ancient salt mines, le saline di Trapani. From here, you can also reach one of the most charming villages in all of Sicily, the medieval hilltop town of Erice.
Greek Sites of Segesta and Selinunte
Inland Sicily is equally fascinating and from Casa Ruffino’s prime location, you will be just 20 minutes away from Segesta and its ancient Greek temple and natural hot springs. Speaking of Greek archaeological sites, the Selinunte Archaeological Park is the largest in all of Europe and is less than an hour from the hotel.
Palermo
And let’s not forget Palermo, the capital of the entire island of Sicily! It’s just 30 minutes away and is an absolute must-see from Casa Ruffino.
Because Balestrate is so well-connected by both the autostrada and public transportation, you can also decide to venture out even further to destinations like Agrigento just over an hour away.
The possibilities are truly endless!
Food and Wine
This part of Sicily is known for its world-famous wine varieties such as Marsala DOC, Erice DOC, Sicilia DOC, and Terre Siciliane IGT. Wine tasting events such as Calici di Stelle in the month of August are becoming increasingly popular.
Hospitality
Giuseppe and his staff make guests’ satisfaction their top priority and will be more than happy to help you make arrangements for guided tours, reservations, and anything else that you might need to make your stay in Sicily one you will never forget.
What are you waiting for?
Book your room at the Casa Ruffino B&B in Balestrate
From Casa Ruffino, you can visit…
50 km away |
Palermo |
26 km away | Segesta |
14 km away | Castellammare del Golfo |
50 km away | Erice |
56 km away | Trapani |
68 km away | Selinunte Archaeological Park |
59 km away | San Vito lo Capo |