About Us

We are a permaculture hostel in southern Sicily. Founded in 2021 by Siri and Paul.

Permaculture, which means fair share , nature care , and people care —that is, the care of people, nature, and sustainable coexistence. We believe this philosophy can ensure that this beautiful planet is preserved for as long as possible, and that humans allow nature space to develop and create more natural ecosystems.

Our goal with VELA VEGA is to create a place where we can use Sicily's resources sustainably: This includes saving water, separating waste, and reducing plastic. As a hostel, we offer travelers passing through, those looking for a vacation, and even long-term guests a colorfully designed place to meet and relax. We are also happy to open our doors for workshops; you can rent either the upper floor or the entire building. As an affordable way to get involved, we also offer volunteer positions year-round and welcome creative input and active participation.

Siri - the organizer

I, Siri, a world sailor, didn't have a home of my own for seven years – I lived on boats, worked as a skipper, explored the Mediterranean, crossed the Atlantic twice, and braved many a storm. Eventually, though, the desire for a home became overwhelming: to cultivate more social connections, create something of my own, have a home base, and finally dance Argentine tango again. I've always said that when I've had enough of sailing, I want to open a hostel somewhere in the world, and so I'm organizing everything that needs organizing to make the VELA VEGA project grow. I couldn't imagine living alone anymore, and so I enjoy this kind of communal living.

Paul - the permaculture designer

I, Paul, am a passionate biologist with a love for permaculture. I studied molecular biology in Berlin for eight years and am now involved in realizing this project. Unlike Siri, however, I don't live at VELA VEGA year-round. I learned how human life can function not alongside, but with, nature during a six-month stay on a permaculture farm in the heart of Nicaragua. My primary interest lies in discovering and understanding symbiotic relationships in nature and ultimately incorporating this idea of living together into our permaculture project. An awareness of the beauty of nature and an understanding of humanity's dependence on the preservation of its ecosystem are of paramount importance. Nature is our greatest teacher, showing us how to be happy with ourselves and our environment. Therefore, I am constantly expanding my knowledge so that I can continue to share it with others in the future.

Nati - the good soul

I'm Nati, another one of the heart and soul of the house. As Paul's partner and therefore part of the family, I'm happy to contribute my perspective and knowledge as a psychologist and systems theorist to the project. I'm particularly passionate about implementing the ethical principles of permaculture and reducing packaging materials. Like Paul, I'm mainly at VELA VEGA in the spring and autumn. During this time, I coordinate the volunteers' tasks, will be dedicating more time next year to networking the project on the island, and otherwise, I'm usually found with both hands in some kind of dough (for bread, focaccia, cakes, etc.).