Suitable for a balmy beach excursion or a deep dive into the reputed heart of Italy, Sicily is a dynamic island of sandy beaches, fishing villages and rugged rural seclusion. This week, Area descends to share unique places to stay, eat (Wednesday) and play (Friday).
You don't know Italy until you know Sicily. they say.
And they may be right. Aim south, lower the roof and relax, Italy's largest island and celebrated home to mobsters in hiding is a place of raw color and contrast. Best explored by car, you'll be soothed by palm trees and scented orange groves one minute and exhilarated by Greek and Arabic architecture the next.
Confused? Tell me about it. Sicily has seen Greeks, Romans, Byzantines and Arabs, French, Spanish, Austrian and British. They've all left their mark - that's the color.
The east coast is the most developed. There, you'll find Taormina, the isle's original resort and the sprawling city of Catania. Dominated by Mount Etna, Europe's largest active volcano, sandy beaches, fine dining and reputable resorts await.
Reputable is nice, but the unique experiences Area travelers seek are best found to the West. The less developed side of Sicily is a rugged and alluring landscape of sandy beaches and charismatic fishing villages. Soul-lifting rural seclusion is available here with the character and comforts you want - that's the contrast.
Sicily offers plenty of blue sky and balmy temps year round, although the beginning and the end of the summer months are ideal as the sun isn't too scalding and the beaches less crowded. August is best avoided, as this is when the mainland Italians descend in their droves.
Our round-up of the hippest hideaways and romantic boutique hotels in Sicily:
Casa Talia, an intimate, seven-room B&B in the heart of UNESCO-protected Modica, is a laid-back retreat in the midst of the island's sun-baked countryside.
To stay at Azienda Agricola Mandranova , is to be thrust into the heart of Sicilian family life - with its emphasis on conviviality and the cucina.
Hidden away in the shadow of the Duomo di S. Giorgio, Le Lumie , is a genuine keep-it-to-yourself B&B escape - simple, stylish and astonishingly good value.
