Sicily is one of those places that I think I’ll revisit for the rest of my life. It’s not because it was easy to get to (just a 2-hour flight from Vienna) or because I probably enjoyed the best seafood of all time. It’s because it’s one of the most unspoilt islands I’ve been over the course of the last years. The whole island is a fabulous melange of delicious food, wine, art, and stunning beaches, but no other region embodies what Sicily is all about better than the hilltop town of Taormina and Giardini Naxos, the picturesque seaside town.
If you’re looking for an elegant beach getaway with that true Sicilian flavour and some serious luxury mixed in, you’ve come to the right place – Villa Raineri is a carefully restored property dating back to the 18th-century, located in the beautiful bay of Giardini Naxos. So make sure to keep reading for all the details on this unique Italian gem!
One of the most tempting design aspects of Villa Raineri is that the entire villa has an indoor-outdoor feel, which means you’re able to enjoy the Sicilian sun and endless views from virtually anywhere. The piece de resistance of the hotel is the terrace, which features awesome views of the Ionian Sea.
Staying at Villa Raineri in Giardini Naxos, just a stone throw’s away from famous Taormina, will give you a mix of both worlds, so you can spend your days exploring the city’s unique culture and get the ultimate experience of rest and relaxation when you check back into your room each night.
Sicilian Nights & Glorious Mornings
This beautiful B&B is the passion project from Maria & Patrizia, who have put a lot of love into these romantic rooms for travelers from all over the world to enjoy. It’s been opened just 4 years ago, and the blend of old & new design pieces gives the property an eclectic look. In short, the Gothic windows, the high ceilings and the carefully preserved old floors make it a dreamy place.
Each room is unique and represented by different color schemes of blue, cream, or light green. However, we’ve found that Alba Chiara – an elegant family room – to be the most charming one. All rooms feature a minibar, a desk, a flat screen TV, air conditioning, a safe, and a spacious bathroom.
In addition, the bed linens and tapestry are exquisite – more information can be found here!
Delicious Eats
As a bed & breakfast villa, there aren’t a lot of features. And that’s perfect! Because serenity and intimacy are the ambiance the hosts aimed while designing this villa. A tranquil and plant-lined garden is where an extensive and delicious breakfast is served every morning – made-to-order Sicilian omelets, pastries and yummy cappuccinos taste fab!
Beach Vibes
Whether you’re visiting Sicily on an extended vacation or only for a few days, the jaw-dropping beaches, and clear turquoise waters are a worthwhile venture. So if you’re a beach bunny you’ll keep busy rotating between the variety of beaches close to Villa Raineri. There are several sandy beaches directly in Giardini Naxos and plenty of others just a quick drive away.
GOOD TO KNOW: For lounging in the sun and enjoying superb seafood on the beach, Isola Bella Taormina is the go-to spot for visitors to Sicily.
Just make sure to stay for sunset as this is the best spot to watch the sun go down over the turquoise water.
To Dos While You’Re Here
Taormina has been gaining popularity over the years for its laidback vibes, stunning views and awesome food scene. So head to this beautiful town for shopping, sightseeing and savoring local delicacies – you’ll find some incredible restaurant options.
INSIDER TIP: for a decadent lunch with all the fancy trimmings, make reservations at Ristorante Granduca Taormina. Full and happy, wander over to the Teatro Antico di Taormina, the most famous Sicilian monument.
Johann Wolfgang Goethe said: “To have seen Italy without having seen Sicily is not to have seen Italy at all, for Sicily is the clue to everything.”
For dinner go to La Cambusa Ristorante located in Giardini Naxos, and try a Sicilian classic: salt-crusted seabass served with crispy lemon potatoes. The fresh seafood on offer is truly amazing!
Last but not least, plan a day trip to Mount Etna, the highest volcano in Europe, and one of the most active of the world. Etna can be visited and hiked year-round. In addition, Sicily’s islands have plenty of under-advertised draws – and they’re literally jaw-dropping! So make sure to visit Lipari – the largest and most developed Aeolian Island. Don’t miss the stunning Favignana and Levanzo Islands!
BOTTOM LINE: I’m sure you’ll enjoy Sicily and its surrounding islands if you like authentic places. On top of that, Sigmund Freud described Sicily as “the loveliest region of Italy: a stunning orgy of colors, scents, and lights… a great delight”. So don’t delay, head to Sicily and stay at Villa Raineri! It’s the kind of place you need to see at least once in your life — but I guarantee you’ll want to come back to visit over and over again.
Ciao Sicily, see you soon… A huge thank you to Villa Raineri for hosting us! As always, all opinions and views are my own.
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