It all began when Prune Merlin, along with her mother, sister and aunt, fell in love with Ortigia, a tiny island just off Syracuse, facing Mount Etna.


Then, together, they fell under the spell of one of the palazzinos, with its blonde stone walls, shady courtyard and rooftop overlooking the sea. Rather than turn it into a family vacation home, their original idea, Prune decided to transform it into an intimate hotel. She designed the interior herself, using the best local craftsmen.


The result: a cheerful patchwork of colors, patterns, materials and vintage souvenirs. A true invitation to travel! Lùme ("glow" in Italian) opened last summer with six rooms and suites, some with terraces. Prune entrusted the keys to her cousin Hanawa and her partner Ronan. A beautiful story of family and passion.
Céline Baussay








