Villa Naxos

The villa

Surrounded by vibrant Mediterranean greenery and soaring palms on a lush hillside close to the heart of Taormina is dreamy Villa Naxos. This spacious home overlooks the sea, bay of Mazzarò, sweeping Sicilian coastline and Isola Bella for enchanting views any time of the day or night.

Getting even closer to the coastal action is easy from Villa Naxos. A five - minute walk away is a cable car station for riding down the hillside to Mazzarò's pretty pebble beach. Jump in the car to reach Taormina's centre with its historic sites and chic pavement - cafe culture in just five minutes. Or enjoy a leisurely 15 - minute stroll into town.

Villa Naxos comprises a main villa and five beautifully appointed annexes. With a total of eight bedrooms, it's an ideal retreat for multiple groups holidaying together in paradise.

The villa is furnished with impeccable taste and a blend of irresistible Sicilian style and contemporary clean lines throughout. Rooms burst with ornate decorations, such as the grand living - room fireplace, more of those lovely traditional tiles and striking, eclectic art. When evening falls, curl up in front of that stunning fireplace as you plan tomorrow's adventures.

Gorgeous parquet floors feature across the three bedrooms, with all opening onto a terrace that offers panoramic sea views. Bathrooms put on a colourful show with decorative tiles so typical of the region.

All of the self - contained one - bedroom annexes have sea views, with some also enjoying private garden and private terrace. With marine - inspired colours and bright, airy atmospheres, these annexes feel almost like luxurious beach houses.

Dine indoors or al fresco on the pool terrace as the sun begins to set over the sea, the choice is yours. However, the hardest decision will probably be where to soak up the sea views outside. It could be the swimming pool, or perhaps the indulgent hot tub with a range of pampering features.

When you're feeling more active, stroll into Taormina and spend an afternoon sightseeing. Highlights include a medieval cathedral, the old town walls and a tiny hilltop church. But the absolute must - visit is Teatro Antico di Taormina, an ancient Greek open - air theatre.

Explore more ancient history in the resort town of Giardini Naxos, just 15 minutes away by car. Also visit Catania with its wealth of Baroque architecture. Definitely an unmissable destination is iconic Mount Etna, which is perfect for a longer day out.

With its picturesque setting on a hillside overlooking the sea, bay of Mazzarò and stunning coastline, Villa Naxos is an oasis of calm and beauty. But it's also incredibly well - connected to everything this gorgeous part of Sicily has to offer.

Just a short walk away is the cable car station that takes you down to the Mazzarò area with its pebbled beach and restaurants. You can also walk or drive down to the coast in around 10 minutes. Hire sun loungers to take it easy, swim in azure waters and enjoy a range of watersports such as snorkelling and diving.

A short distance from the beach at Mazzarò is Isola Bella, a stunning island connected to the coast via a thin strip of sand. It too boasts a pebble beach and plenty of hidden coves to explore. Boats also leave from the Mazzarò area for the magical Blue Grotto sea cave.

You can reach the heart of Taormina on foot in 15 minutes or jump in the car and be there in just five. You're spoilt for choice when it comes to meals and drinks out, with spots such as Piazza IX Aprile lined with restaurants, cafes and bars. Fashionistas will love Corso Umberto with the area being the town's top shopping destination. It bursts with luxury boutiques and shops selling clothing, jewellery and souvenirs.

Historic highlights of Taormina include Duomo di Taormina, Palazzo Ciampoli and Porta Catania, with the latter being the ancient arched gateway to the town. Walk up the slopes above Taormina and follow a stepped pathway cut into the rocks to discover the tiny church, Chiesa Madonna della Rocca. The ancient Greek open - air theare, Teatro Antico di Taormina, is Taormina's most - famous site and is worth visiting for the breathtaking views alone.

More ancient history is on offer in the resort of Giardini Naxos, as well as sandy beaches. Explore the ruins of what is said to be the first ancient Greek colony and settlement in Sicily at the archaeological park and museum.

The ancient port city of Catania with its beautiful Baroque architecture and famous fish market is just a 45 - minute drive from the villa.

Mount Etna has natural history more than covered and is an ideal destination for a longer day out. Explore the moon - like terrain of this still - active volcano by jeep and ascend at least 2,500 feet on the cable car.