Where to go in Sicily, Italy

Sicily is an Italian island filled with small golden beaches, a plethora of fresh seafood and some of Italy's clearest waters. Small towns scatter the landscape each providing a different atmosphere but all with the classic laid-back Italian feel. I highly recommend moving around frequently by car to see the whole island and to discover as many tiny towns and quaint beaches as possible. Keep reading to find out my top 6 places to add to your Sicilian road trip.

Pools of Venus

Up in the northeast of the island on the tip of the Milazzo Cape are the glittering pools of Venus. These are easily accessible along a short coastal path which is covered in beautiful natural shrubbery offering stunning views over the ocean. Once you arrive there is a small area to lay out your towel while you take a dip and explore the colourful wildlife which lives below the water's surface. Being able to swim safely in a natural shallow pool full of life right next to the ocean is such a special experience however it is best to visit early as the place fills up quickly.

Palermo

The largest city in Sicily is Palermo which is more contemporary and has a busy atmosphere. After visiting the must-see site of Cattedrale di Palermo you can either walk for 1.5 hours or take the bus up to Mount Pellegrino for the best panoramic views of the area. Spend the afternoon at Mondello beach which is a 20-minute drive from the city centre but worth the trip as the pretty C-shaped bay is filled with clear water and a scattering of ice cream shops and restaurants. The centre of Palermo was not my favourite area in Sicily but the hike up Mount Pellegrino and the waters of Mondello beach make this city a worthwhile stop on your Sicily road trip.

Laghetti Di Cavagrande

Put on some decent walking shoes when heading down the rocky gorge towards the natural oasis of Cavagrande del Cassibile. Once compleating your descent you will be spoilt for choice with the tiered-level freshwater pools which sit at the base of the hills. Although a popular spot there is plenty of room to lie out in the sun and enjoy a swim in the deep jade-coloured pools. Make sure to pack plenty of water as this is not a serviced area.

Tip

Although part of Italy the island of Sicily is not as universally developed as most other countries in Europe therefore food, services and petrol stations are few and far between on the roads. Always keep water and some food in your car for the drives.

Cefalù

A tiny town in the north surrounded by dramatic hills that roll into the ocean, Cefalu is not to be missed. Head up to Castello di Cefalù for the best views of the area and burnt orange rooftops below or spend your time lazing on the beach with its clear waters and idyllic backdrop. Cefalu is not short of fantastic restaurants showcasing seasonal Italian cuisine and fresh seafood. Walk down Via Porpora for restaurants that have balconies with views over the water or we had a lovely meal in the courtyard of Le Chat Noir. We stayed a 15-minute drive outside of Cefalu at Vallegrande Nature Resort which offers amazing views and a nice break away from the crowds and day trippers visiting Cefalù.

Isola Bella - Taormina

Also known as The Pearl of the Ionian Sea, Isola Bella is located within a small bay on the East coast of Sicily only a 30-minute walk from the centre of Taormina. The bay forms a wide W centre with a small central strip of sand connecting the island to the mainland. It was a private property until 1990 when it was bought by the Region of Sicily and turned into a nature reserve. The island is surrounded by sea grottos and has a small stony beach which is a popular destination for sunbathers. There is a scattering of hotels and restaurants on the road above which runs along the coast and cobbled pedestrian-only walkways that take you down to the beach.

Baglio Occhipinti

Baglio Occhipinti is everything you could want in an Italian boutique hotel. This converted 17th-century farm is home to 12 guest rooms, a natural swimming pool and its very own vineyard all set within 25 acres of the beautiful Sicilian countryside. The 6-course set dinner is prepared daily with seasonal produce bought from the market and surrounding farms. What is also so special about this culinary experience is you can walk through the kitchen to chat with the chef who will be keen to show you what is being prepared. A breakfast of fruits, pasties and eggs is served romantically outside on white linen table clothes that flutter in the breeze. It is the perfect place to laze by the pool with a book and a glass of local wine as you gaze upon the lemon trees basking in the heat of the day.

Tip

We flew into Catania and stayed two nights giving us a day to explore however I would recommend completely skipping this town as we found the majority of it to be run down with little to see. Instead, allow more time for the pretty town of Taormina which is full of ice cream shops and cute cobbled streets. It is a little touristy but very well maintained and ticks all the expectations of a cute Sicilian town.

Exploring Sicily is best done by car and moving frequently around to be able to see this wide range of locations and get the best feel of the island. There is a wide variety of accommodation options from cheap Airbnb's to ultimate luxury at Belmond in Taormina so suitable for a wide range of travellers. This island is culturally rich with excellent food and natural landscaping depending on a person's interest. Due to it's curving winding roads, the drives can take longer than you think but the island is full of stunning scenery and is highly rewarding.

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