Sicily
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Food and Drink
Sicilian cuisine is made up of a mixture of different cultural traditions, with elements from Greek and Arab cuisines still used. The cuscus alla trapanese is a traditional North African speciality, made with grains of couscous and seafood, whilst the pasta con le sarde is one of the most famous Sicilian dishes, using fresh sardines and wild fennel. The signature pasta dish, pasta alla norma, recalls the Norman past, and is a delicious tomato based sauce, with aubergines and grated salted ricotta.
When it comes to sweet snacks and desserts, Sicily excels. Try the cassata, made from sponge cake filled with ricotta, sugar, chocolate and candied fruit. Also not to be missed are the deliciously sweet cannoli, brandy snap, sweet ricotta-filled rolls which are sold in confectioner’s shops all over the island. The lemon-flavoured granite, ices are perfect for cooling off on a hot day, whilst the torricini, almond nougat is well worth sampling. There are many wonderful preserves on offer, made from the citrus fruits grown on the island, which, as well as the fragrant honey, all making welcome gifts.
Shopping
In Taormina, the Via Corso Umberto 1 is home to a range of stylish boutiques, souvenir and antique shops, whilst the narrow streets of medieval Cefalu reveal many shops specialising in Sicilian handicrafts. Ceramics in particular are worthy of note; the elaborately decorated 19th century tiles, in light blues and greens, can be used as a decorative addition to any room, whilst the many terracotta pieces available are still made by local craftsman and make interesting souvenirs.
Where To Stay
Take time to enjoy the magical view from Piazza IX Aprile in Taormina.Celebration
Spend an evening enjoying an open air performance in the unforgettable surroundings of the amphitheatre in Taormina with Etna in the distance.
Sicilian cuisine is made up of a mixture of different cultural traditions, with elements from Greek and Arab cuisines still used. The cuscus alla trapanese is a traditional North African speciality, made with grains of couscous and seafood, whilst the pasta con le sarde is one of the most famous Sicilian dishes, using fresh sardines and wild fennel. The signature pasta dish, pasta alla norma, recalls the Norman past, and is a delicious tomato based sauce, with aubergines and grated salted ricotta.
When it comes to sweet snacks and desserts, Sicily excels. Try the cassata, made from sponge cake filled with ricotta, sugar, chocolate and candied fruit. Also not to be missed are the deliciously sweet cannoli, brandy snap, sweet ricotta-filled rolls which are sold in confectioner’s shops all over the island. The lemon-flavoured granite, ices are perfect for cooling off on a hot day, whilst the torricini, almond nougat is well worth sampling. There are many wonderful preserves on offer, made from the citrus fruits grown on the island, which, as well as the fragrant honey, all making welcome gifts.
Shopping
In Taormina, the Via Corso Umberto 1 is home to a range of stylish boutiques, souvenir and antique shops, whilst the narrow streets of medieval Cefalu reveal many shops specialising in Sicilian handicrafts. Ceramics in particular are worthy of note; the elaborately decorated 19th century tiles, in light blues and greens, can be used as a decorative addition to any room, whilst the many terracotta pieces available are still made by local craftsman and make interesting souvenirs.
Where To Stay
- Over the years, Taormina has enchanted a wealth of writers and artists, and it’s easy to see why. Perched high on the slopes of Monte Tauro, this charming medieval town is regarded as Sicily’s most beautiful town, and is renowned for its breathtaking panoramic views towards the coast, with Mount Etna as its backdrop. The ancient Greco-Roman amphitheatre, the world’s second largest ancient theatre, is one of the highlights of the town and still hosts summer musical festivals. The town is delightful in the spring, when the climate is mild and the trees are filled with blossom, whilst during the summer months, semi-tropical palms, exotic plants and bougainvillea all thrive.
- Taormina Mare & Mazzaro are the sophisticated beach resorts reached by cable car access from the town of Taormina. The crystal clear blue waters of the Bay of Mazzaro are perfect for a swim, whilst the many good fish restaurants around the water’s edge are the ideal place to enjoy a long lazy lunch. Marina D’Agro, just up the coast is a tiny fishing village with traditional Sicilian charm.
- Giardini Naxos is a traditional seaside resort near what was once the first Greek colony in Sicily. With a large sandy beach and a charming array of restaurants and bars, it is a good location for a beach holiday.
- Situated on the Northern Coast, set on a steep promontory is the medieval town of Cefalu, whose magnificent Norman Cathedral with its well-preserved mosaics dominates the town. Narrow cobbled streets, filled with pretty churches and small shops selling local crafts all add to Cefalu’s charm. With a long sandy beach and a fabulous coastline, Cefalu is a popular seaside town.
- Lipari & Vulcano, part of the Aeolian island archipelago, just off the north west coast of Sicily, can be considered as holiday destinations their own right. Lipari, with its pretty old town made up of pastel-coloured houses and quaint fishing harbour, is a pleasure to discover, whilst the castle, cathedral and Aeolian island museum all merit a visit. Named after Vulcan, the Greek god of fire in ancient mythology, Vulcano is dominated by the island’s volcano. Now inactive, you may take the two-hour walk to the top, to enjoy spectacular views over the sea and beyond. The island’s beaches are ideal for relaxing, whilst the mud baths and thermal springs in Vulcano are noted for their therapeutic qualities.
- Mount Etna - Spend a day ascending the 2,000m volcano of Etna and experience the amazing Alcantra Gorge.
- Aeolian Islands - Visit the spectacular and relatively undiscovered islands off the north coast of Sicily by boat.
Take time to enjoy the magical view from Piazza IX Aprile in Taormina.Celebration
Spend an evening enjoying an open air performance in the unforgettable surroundings of the amphitheatre in Taormina with Etna in the distance.
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