WANDERING SICILY’S SENSATIONAL SHORES
Set apart from the Italian mainland and boasting some of the best-preserved Greek ruins, alongside fairy-tale scenery to complement its realm of mythology, Sicily is a place of wonderment whose unique culture and traditions remain truly Sicilian. The lure of this sun-kissed island, which maintained a strategic position during ancient trade routes and as a result, has an extremely rich (and many time difficult) history, as well as extremely diverse populations and monumental architecture.
Travelling here by road or sea is both humbling and transformative, as you encounter splendid panoramas and locals who are proud to share a taste of their homeland. Don’t be fooled by the simplicity of its seasonal ingredients, for culinary customs have been passed down through generations of nonnas, bursting with unforgettable flavour, you’ll have to see for yourself.
Palermo
The energy here is palpable, and the capital of Sicily is a great bookend to your tour. Feast your eyes on the stunning Norman Royal Palace, discreet aristocratic residences, and the Palatine Chapel… then immerse yourself in bustling street markets, stroll along the waterfront, and cross the Quattro Canti to better understand Palermo’s cosmopolitan and artistic identity.
The perfect backdrop to a grand celebration at this 19th Century palazzo, Villa Igiea, a Rocco Forte Hotel, harks back to an era of grandeur with its Art Nouveau interiors. The lull of the seaside and tiered gardens offer a welcome respite from the buzzing cityscape beyond its walls. Don’t miss the Igiea Terrazza Bar, an atmospheric sandstone vault.
South Coast
The drive along Sicily’s south coast reveals natural poetry at its finest, as you trail along ancient wine-making traditions in Menfi, surreal white sandy beaches of Porto Palo and Eraclea Minoa, gaze in awe at meringue cliffs at Realmonte, then dip into Sciacca’s thermal baths. In Agrigento, the imposing valley of the Temples is a wonderfully preserved classical relic and the laid-back fishing villages and endless beaches add charm to this journey.
Stay at Rocco Forte’s Verdura Resort, a countryside retreat blending spa serenity and world-class golf with panoramic views. The resort’s Culinary School offers intimate, garden-to-table experiences — from foraging in the organic vegetable garden at La Casetta nell’Orto to cooking classic dishes like maccheroncini alla Norma or aubergine caponata. For families, the three-bedroom Acacia Suite opens out to private terraces perfect for dining under the stars.
Ragusa
Dating from 1693 and rebuilt after an earthquake, the magic of Ragusa Ibla lies in getting lost within its maze of quiet alleys dotted with over 50 baroque churches. Food lovers delight—this gourmet capital serves up rich local flavours: pastieri (savoury pies of minced goat and lamb), broad bean macco, caciocavallo cheese, Modica’s famed chocolate, and almond affucaparrinu biscuits. After an innovative Michelin-starred tasting menu at La Locanda Don Serafino, retreat to its intimate hotel, where luxury suites have been carved into the local stone for a an unforgettable stay. Enjoy wine tastings, cooking classes and farm visits.
Taormina
Arriving at idyllic Taormina takes you along a steep and scenic ascent up a rocky promontory and a serpentine road to reach this iconic perch. Originally part of the Grand Tour, revel in the picturesque views of Mount Etna, Naxon Bay, Teatro Antico and medieval building which have held appeal since Roman times, Taormina continues to attract renowned writers, actors and directors seeking inspiration and solace. Embrace the Belmond touch where you’ll be spoiled for choice with two separate properties. On the coast and away from crowd, old world glamour resides at Villa Sant’Andrea at Taormina Mare with beach cabanas and subtropical gardens. Above is Grand Hotel Timeo, a timeless hideaway with superb alfresco dining and a Dior Spa.
Aeolian Islands
Recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, considered a local’s secret on the less travelled path and flanked by two volcanoes Stromboli and Vulcano, these ‘seven pearls’ in the South Tyrrhenian Sea are a must for archaeology and seafaring lovers. From their untamed landscapes to an unchanged way of life, the timeless authenticity of this archipelago will delight you.
Charter your private yacht as you traverse around the most beautiful bays and coves, uncovering treasures on a meandering route, soaking into Vulcano’s thermal springs, enjoying Salina’s capers and vineyards producing the best Malvasia, Panarea’s ancient rock formations and black beaches, plus visiting the castle atop Lipari….
Surrounded by three seas, every region of this splendid island is unique in its own right and will draw you back to discover more.
Please do get in touch for your tailor-made itinerary which integrates your requirements alongside stunning secrets of Sicily by land and sea.
