Palazzolo Holidays

You'll find this laidback Sicilian town perched high in the Hyblaean mountains, peering down at the south of Italy and Syracuse. The town got a Baroque facelift after an earthquake back in the day, and it's now got UNESCO World Heritage status. Use it as your launching pad to the Sicilian countryside and the ancient ruins of Akrai.

In the old town, picturesque houses with wrought-iron balconies line the main street, Corso Vittorio Emanuele. Pop into family-run shops lit by old-fashioned gas lamps, then wander down to the Church of San Sebastino. Marvel at the Palazzo Municipale on Piazza Popolo on your way to an outdoor café for an Aperol spritz.

Palazzolo's home to the house-museum of the poet Antonino Uccello on Via Machiavelli, where you can learn about the history and culture of Sicily. You’ll find some awe-inspiring sights at the archaeological park above the town, including catacombs, sculptures and a Greek theatre.

Drive for 30 minutes and you'll come to Fontane Bianche – it's buckets and spades at the ready here, as these calm waters and sandy shores are a hub for beach-loving families. There are restaurants and bars chilling just behind the smooth white sand, too.