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Who would not go to Sicily? Even looking at Sicily through the images, we can see that is paradise on Earth. Its emerald sea, its crystal beaches, its delicious and multifariously colored food, and the incredible hospitality of the Sicilians bring this island on the must-to-visit destinations list at least once. Sicily is that Italy of movies which we usually imagine: romantic, full of special energy, full of life.
But beyond its well-known landmarks, Sicily possesses secret corners of privilege, where luxury and authenticity intersect. For the most unforgettable views, secrets, and touches of sophistication, these are the most exclusive destinations in Sicily that transcend the mainstream.
Taormina
Located at the summit of a cliff overhanging the Ionian Sea, Taormina has served as a home away from home to stars and royalty. No wonder that the finest 5-star hotels in Taormina combine luxury with the taste of history and spectacular vistas.
Whilst all the tourists strive to make their way to the Ancient Greek Theatre, there is a hidden treasure for those desiring to step away from the tourist path—the Isola Bella Nature Reserve. This little island, connected by a sandy spit, was once a private sanctuary and now a sea nature reserve. To snorkel off its beaches is entering an underwater paradise.
For a different experience, arrange a sunset private yacht tour and have the vista of Mount Etna from the sea.
Pantelleria
Beyond the crowds, volcanic island of Pantelleria is a peaceful retreat renowned for its unspoiled beauty. Giorgio Armani himself has a villa there, a tribute to its upscale appeal.
Pantelleria’s Specchio di Venere, or Mirror of Venus, is a therapeutic mud lake, located amidst an almost lunar landscape. Cleopatra allegedly used the same volcanic muds for her own beauty rituals, so this is an ancient spa experience worthy of a queen.
For aficionados, a personal tasting of Passito di Pantelleria, the island’s famous sweet wine, is just a must. Made from sun-dried Zibibbo grapes, this golden nectar has been enjoyed since Roman days.
Salina
Salina is eclipsed by its more famous sister, Stromboli, but that only makes it that much more unique, as this verdant island is an oasis of tranquility.
One of Salina’s best-kept secrets is Pollara Beach, nestled inside an old volcanic crater. This spectacular cove, featured as a setting for the film Il Postino, can only be accessed by boat or a grueling hike, keeping it secluded and elite.
Val di Noto
For architecture, history, and anything that calls to mind Sicily’s most refined baroque beauty, the towns of Val di Noto are a journey. While the town of Noto is well known enough, its surrounding village of Palazzolo Acreide is a hidden spectacle with fewer tourists but equally as much charm.
It also boasts the Cavagrande del Cassibile nature park, which features a stunning canyon with natural lakes where you can indulge in a secluded swim in sapphire waters far from the main tourist trails.
Trapani and the Egadi Islands
Trapani, whose stunning seafront palazzi are like a jewel-encrusted necklace, is the portal to the isolated Egadi Islands of Favignana, Levanzo, and Marettimo. Italian tycoons dock their yachts here to escape summer tourists.
The height of indulgence? A sailing trip to Grotta del Genovese on Levanzo, where 10,000-year-old prehistoric cave paintings are still free from the ravages of mass tourism.
For seafood lovers, a visit to an artisanal tuna fishery in Favignana offers a chance to taste some of Italy’s finest seafood. It’s a dining experience that underscores the deep connection between Sicilian culture and the sea.
Sicily is not just about luxury, it’s also a deep dive into history, nature, and identity. The island amazes those who want to have a taste of everything authentically Italian: the culture, the mentality and the dolce vita, so it rewards with generosity those who seek something more than the usual experience.
And of course, no trip to Sicily could possibly be fulfilled without trying the italian and the sicilian food that, like the island itself, is rich and deeply rooted in its land and customs.