Sicily Holidays

Sicily, regarded as being quite foreign to Italy, is the largest island of the Mediterranean and boasts a unique and fascinating past. Invasions by Phoenicians, Greeks, Carthaginians, Romans and Arabs have created a fantastic collision of cultures with notable contributions to the arts, music, literature, cuisine, viniculture, architecture and language. With such a stunning setting, holidays in Sicily make for the perfect luxury getaway.

The landscape of Sicily is of long, wide coastal plains edged by secluded coves with sandy and pebbled beaches, backed by charming inland valleys and high mountains, with Mount Etna forming a stunning backdrop to the eastern coast. This varied terrain alongside the crystal clear waters of the Mediterranean Sea offers guests on Sicily holidays plenty of things to do, both inland and on the shore.

The island is dotted with remnants of its past: a classical temple and Greek amphitheatre here, an Arabic old town and Norman cathedral there and mosaic filled churches and ornate piazzas embellished with a Sicilian Baroque style everywhere.

Palermo, the capital, lies on the northern coast, this buzzing city is full of life, energy and a fantastic place to explore and find hidden gems on Sicily holidays. However, on the eastern coast where the most rewarding collection of cities and towns are to be found, amongst them, Messina, Catania, Siracuse and our featured resorts of Taormina, Castelmola and Acireale. With these cities far less travelled than the likes of Rome, Venice and Florence there is plenty to discover on holidays to Sicily.

From excursions to Mount Etna to following in the footsteps of *The Godfather*, be sure to pre-book one our memorable experiences in Sicily.

Local Cuisine Sicily has a plentiful supply of traditional staples of Sicilian cuisine namely fish, vegetables and olive oil plus additional ingredients bequeathed by Arab invaders to add exotic flavours. Sardines, anchovies, tuna and swordfish are favoured and pasta sauces are often vegetable and fish based. Raisins, fennel and pine nuts add an Arabian twist with marzipan and fresh fruit for dessert. Coffee is served in a myriad of ways; etiquette suggesting that cappuccino is a morning-only drink; never served after a meal.

When to visit Early spring is best with tropical gardens bathed in blossom and the street cafés uncrowded enough to observe the ritualistic passeggiata; locals enjoying an evening stroll. Summers are warm with high temperatures in July and August and, although there are frequent showers between November and March, winters are mild.

To start planning your luxury holiday to Sicily, call 0800 008 7288

##Resorts in Sicily