MY VISIT TO THE LARGEST ISLAND IN THE MED; STUNNING SICILY!

Deva Travel’s Amanda Hughes heads to Sicily…

“I am not sure what I expected when I was due to arrive in Sicily for the first time. What I can tell you though is it took my breath away! Stunningly lush, vibrant, green and mountainous and very, very beautiful. 

We started with lunch in the beach resort of Giardini Naxos. It is not far from Catania Airport or the beautiful town of Taormina and has beaches, so it’s well placed. We had the most fantastic lunch at a quirky family-run hotel, Hotel Palladio, where I think we tried every Sicilian food type – all of which was delicious! 

A long bus ride then took us to Cefalu along the stunning coast road, through tunnels and past mountains and with sections on viaducts; it was a long transfer with lovely scenery.

Cefalu is a lovely beach resort with a super old town and quaint narrow streets that lead down to the sand. We stayed the first night at a lovely 3-star family-run hotel across the road from the beach, The Hotel Tourist. On the next two nights, we visited the 4-star Alberi Del Paradiso. This is a lovely hotel with excellent views to enjoy with a glass of vino.

Further along the coast is Palermo, with its stunning ancient Greek temple and amphitheatre at Segesta. What a delight to come across such a well-preserved temple amid beautiful countryside.

Onwards to the gorgeous resort of Castellammare di Golfo. This is a lovely port and you can climb up to the pretty town above, which is bustling with restaurants and bars and a busy piazza.

The resort has a couple of beaches and the boutique hotel, Cala Marina, which sits on the little port. The hotel is family-owned, with good views and a welcoming, warm feeling.

Our next stop was Taormina. It is as beautiful as it looks in the brochures and is steeped with history. A myriad of little streets, with lots of views, shops and restaurants to keep you entertained. 

We were extremely fortunate to stay in the stunning 5-star Belmond Grand Timeo. Wow! With its wonderful position right next to the amphitheatre and fabulous views from all of its terraces and pool, this is an incredible place for your Sicilian stay.

Our last night was spent at the Belmond Villa Sant’ Andrea in Taormina Mare.  If you are happy to stay on the beach, this could not be in a better position. Easy access to the cable car and with its own area of a little beach with good swimming. The hotel facilities and service are excellent and of a high level. My top tip is if you stay at the Timeo in town, you can use the facilities of the Sant’ Andrea hotel and beach too! Perfect!

Sicily, I loved you and I will be returning!