From Taormina to Noto, between flavors and wonders

Sicily, an island kissed by the sun and rich in history, culture, and flavors, offers a breathtaking itinerary for travel enthusiasts. A route that starts from the splendid Taormina to reach the baroque Noto, crossing unspoiled landscapes, fascinating villages and UNESCO World Heritage cities. The largest island in the Mediterranean, it is a territory rich in history, culture, and natural beauty that make it a popular destination for travelers from around the world. With the majestic peaks of Etna, the enchanting sandy beaches, the medieval villages and the incredible architectural beauty of the cities, Sicily offers an infinity of experiences, satisfying everyone's preferences.

Thanks to its varied beauty, it has always been a highly coveted destination for people from all over the world to learn about an ancient history, full of battles, falls, conquests and rebirths and to admire the boundless beauty of breathtaking natural landscapes and taste the goodness of dishes that taste of tradition.

Taormina: a jewel set between sky and sea

Our journey begins in Taormina, a pearl set on the east coast of Sicily. Perched on a hill 200 meters above sea level, Taormina offers breathtaking views of Etna, the highest active volcano in Europe, and the Ionian Sea.

The city boasts a thousand-year history dating back to Greek and Roman times. Its Ancient Theater, still used for concerts and shows, is one of the largest and best preserved in Italy. In addition to its historical and scenic beauty, Taormina is also a paradise for food lovers: strolling through the narrow streets of the historic center, between typical shops and restaurants that smell of Sicilian cuisine, you can taste the almond granita, a fresh dessert based on almond juice and crushed ice, perfect for refreshing long walks.

A small natural paradise rises immediately in front of the Taormina coast: Isola Bella, a small islet that emerges from the crystal clear sea like a precious jewel. Its unspoiled beauty, with its lush Mediterranean vegetation and rugged cliffs, makes it a must-see for nature lovers. A true oasis for lovers of the sea and tranquility.

Greek theatre and Isola Bella of Taormina

Alcantara Gorges, a natural paradise

After leaving Taormina, we head towards the Alcantara Gorges, a breathtaking canyon carved by the river of the same name over millennia. Here nature reigns supreme, creating a scenario of rare beauty that leaves you breathless.

The Alcantara Gorges appear as a succession of basaltic walls up to 40 meters high. The spectacle is truly unique, especially when the sun's rays illuminate the rocks, creating a play of light and shadow that makes the atmosphere even more evocative.

In addition to their scenic beauty, the Alcantara Gorges are also a place rich in history and legend. It is said that their formation was due to divine wrath unleashed against a dishonest farmer, or that the icy waters of the river are the result of the god Vulcan's resentment towards the goddess Venus. These fascinating stories make the place even more special and full of mystery.

Alcantara gorges

Mount Etna Park, an Imposing Volcano

The journey continues to Mount Etna Park, a unique place in the world where the power of nature manifests in all its spectacularity. With its 3,329 meters of height, Etna is the highest active volcano in Europe and offers a breathtaking panorama that extends to the east coast of Sicily.

Climbing Etna is an experience not to be missed for any nature and adventure lover: for trekking enthusiasts there is a vast network of trails that wind through woods, lava flows and silent craters. Paths suitable for all levels of experience allow you to explore the unspoiled nature of the volcano and discover its ancient secrets. Among the most evocative trails, we remember the one that leads to the Silvestri Craters, an ancient volcanic complex with cinder cones and eruptive vents still well preserved, and the one that leads to the Cave of the Ice, a natural cavity where snow is preserved all year round.

On the slopes of Etna, fragrant flowers are grown that the Sicilian black bees transform into the famous Etna Honey. This unique product, PDO since 2015, is available in different varieties, linked to the typical flora of the different areas of the volcano.

Mount Etna park

Syracuse, a dive into history

Syracuse, the pearl of Eastern Sicily, enchants visitors with its ancient charm and lively atmosphere. It is impossible not to visit the Greek Theatre of Syracuse: dating back to the 5th century BC, it is one of the largest and best preserved in Europe. Here, among the white stone steps, one can imagine the voices of ancient bards narrating stories of heroes and gods, now punctuated by a season full of events and theatrical performances. Not far away, the Ear of Dionysius, an artificial cave with an elongated shape and perfect acoustics, takes us back in time, whispering secrets and amplifying every sound.

Also worth noting is the Neapolis, the "new city" built in the 4th century BC, which offers a further immersion in history. 

Syracuse is not just ancient history. Strolling through the narrow streets of Ortigia, the beating heart of the city, one breathes in a lively and authentic atmosphere. Among local craft shops, historic shops and restaurants that smell of Sicilian cuisine, one discovers the true soul of Syracuse. A must-stop is the Ortigia market, a kaleidoscope of colors and flavors where you can taste local specialties such as "Cassata Siciliana", a triumph of ricotta, almond paste and candied fruit, which will delight the palate and leave an indelible memory.

Historical center and greek theatre of Syracuse

Ragusa Ibla and Scicli: panoramic views and evocative atmospheres

Ragusa Ibla, rebuilt after the 1693 earthquake, stands on a plateau overlooking the valley below. Its white limestone buildings and churches, adorned with elaborate Baroque decorations, create a panorama of rare beauty that has earned the city UNESCO World Heritage status.

Scicli, also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is distinguished by its evocative atmosphere and its cave dwellings carved into the limestone rock. Strolling through its narrow streets, one discovers ancient caves used as houses, churches and even shops.

Noto, capital of Sicilian baroque

Here we are in Noto, located in the Val di Noto in southeastern Sicily, a riot of Baroque art that has earned it the nickname "Capital of Baroque". The city, rebuilt after the devastating earthquake of 1693, is an absolute masterpiece of architecture, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Strolling through the historic center, one is enchanted by the beauty of its palaces, churches and monuments. But in addition to its architectural beauty, Noto offers visitors a 360-degree sensory experience: strolling through its streets, one can discover local craft shops where you can buy unique souvenirs, and typical restaurants where you can taste the delicious Sicilian cuisine.

A must-do is to conclude the visit by enjoying the classic Sicilian cannoli while watching the spectacular sunsets that the city offers.

Cathedral of Noto

Discover Sicily

Sicily offers an endless array of experiences for travelers from all over the world, with its ancient cities and a culinary tradition that has always held a great deal of fascination.

With Absolute Sicilia you can experience this incredible and immense island through unique tailor-made experiences: you will have the opportunity to stroll through characteristic alleys and soak up the scents of Italian cuisine; visit the most beautiful cities, stay in the most prestigious luxury resorts and take photos that will transform sunny days, the convivial atmosphere and the happiness that only such a warm place can give into sweet memories.

Let's start this journey together.

Source: Vogue Italia by Giorgia Genocchio