Sicily Holidays

Sicily’s the big island being kicked by Italy’s boot. It technically falls under the Italy umbrella, but it’s a bit of a cultural mishmash. In the past, the isle’s closeness to Africa meant it was an easy target for invaders. We’re guessing they clocked onto its top weather, dramatic scenery and pristine beaches. Plus, you don’t just get one island – the off-shore Aeolian Islands give you seven extra.

Honey-dipped Cefalu manages to muscle in on the beach and sightseeing action. Its long sandy beach bumps up to tangled Medieval streets and a Norman-style cathedral. Plus, you can easily take city breaks into capital Palermo to check out its Gothic palaces, eerie catacombs and Italy’s biggest opera house.

Zip over to the island’s east coast, meanwhile, and all eyes are on Mount Etna. Taormina’s up there as one of Sicily’s best-looking towns. View-wise, it’s a two-for-one deal – you can eye up the sea and the snowy volcano from its ancient Greek theatre. Drop south a tad and you’ve got Giardini Naxos for beach days and volcano hikes.