The glitz and glamour of Sicily’s east end doesn’t disappoint. Sharpe jagged cliffs shoot up from the sea, creating a postcard perfect coastline very reminiscent of the Amalfi coast, only better beaches and better water clarity. Taormina is where Sicily’s crème de la crème come to relax. Europeans in the know also make it a number one vacation destination. Located about an hour north of Catania’s airport, Taormina is easily accessible and has many direct flights from other European cities which makes this location very attractive for the distant traveler.
It isn’t hard to enjoy a lazy afternoon at a beach club sipping Prosecco, watching speed boats zip by or checking out the super yachts anchored just off shore. From Catania, north to Messina, high end resorts and hotels litter the coastline, all vying for that perfect stretch of beach. My advice, rent an Airbnb up the hill to enjoy those breathtaking vistas. Book way in advance for summer months as hotels, resorts and Airbnb’s tend to be fully booked as soon as the weather heats up.
The crown jewel of the area is Isola Bella. AKA, The Pearl of the Ionian Sea. A small island located within the bay. Formally privately owned, the island is now a nature reserve owned by the region of Sicily. There is a small pebble beach that connects to the island, perfect for sunbathing. Grab your snorkel gear and swim out to one of the many grottos to check out the sea life. You could also try booking one of the many boat tours that operate in the area. Most offer half day and full day tours from lunch and wine pairings to sunset cruises. Both options are fantastic and can be a relaxing and fun way to see the area. Plus who doesn’t love the boat life.. I know, boats are not for everyone. For those people I would recommend posting up at one of the many beach clubs along Isola Bella. There is three or four clubs located directly on Isola Bella that offer umbrellas and sun chairs around twenty euros per day.
For lunch and lounging I would recommend Mendolia Beach Club. Great service from the beach club staff to the restaurant staff. Plus they have showers to rinse off and employees walking around offering massages. Throw in a few glasses of Prosecco and I’d say it was a great day.
For dinner my number one recommendation is Trattoria Tiramisu. Tiramisu is located in the center of Taormina. They offer al fresco or indoor dining. Dine al fresco and people watch while you’re scarfing down lobster spaghetti followed by none other than their tiramisu(the star of the show of course). Both dishes are heavenly and hit the mark. Thank me later for the recommendation. Summer months also call for white wine and since Taormina is located at the base of Mt.Etna, definitely order a bottle of locally made Etna Bianco. After dinner I would suggest you spend an evening perusing the streets. The old town of Taormina is beautiful and the shopping is top notch. High end retailers from Prada to Rolex have store fronts but the real gems are the local Artisan and boutique owners. Hey, you’re in Taormina, Sicily. Spend a few euros, live the fab life , treat yourself or get your significant other something nice! !trattoriatiramisu.it