Sicily is the largest island in the Mediterranean Sea and also the largest region in Italy. In Europe it is a leading tourist destination. Between its magnificent coastline, its beautiful historical cities and its hilly hinterland where Mount Etna proudly lies, it offers a multitude of visits to be planned and a definite change of scenery. Sicily is fortunate to be an island that is home to two of Italy's most important historical cities: Palermo and Catania. But we must not forget to head for its villages, which also have an architectural and cultural heritage of great importance. Gastronomy and hiking complete a journey that has everything to make it a must on the Old Continent. And a stay at Club Med in Sicily offers the ideal setting to focus on natural and architectural treasures that never cease to amaze
Landing in Cefalù
Cefalù is a wonderful place to settle in Sicily. Situated in the province of Palermo, it is a pleasant little fishing port whose foundation dates back to the 5th century B.C. The small town is full of architectural treasures including its splendid cathedral erected in 1131 by the Normans, the remains of its castle and all the ancient remains found on the unmissable rock of Cefalù. Once past the Pescara Gate and its Gothic arch, you should take time to stroll through the old town to see palaces and Baroque churches, but also to reach the main artery, Corso Ruggeo, and go shopping in a medieval atmosphere. Around the town, it is recommended to walk in the splendid corners of nature. To reach the foot of the rocky formations of Pineta di Grotta Grattera or to take a breath of fresh air in the Madonie mountain range. Back in Cefalù, before returning to the Resort 5Ψ Club Med Exclusive Collection, we reach the seafront, to contemplate the crystal-clear waters and land in a pretty cove, with a sumptuous backdrop of old medieval buildings
Settling in the South and exploring the cities of the Eastern part of the country
Southern Sicily offers a more intimate character. Although this part of the island is less touristy, it is perfectly suited to travellers seeking privacy and beautiful heritage. There are indeed majestic baroque cities. 90 km south of Catania is Noto, a city that is well worth a visit with its splendidly decorated Cathedral of St. Nicholas, the imaginative façade of the Villadorata Palace and its mysterious old town with its dilapidated buildings full of history. Not far away is Ragusa, a town that sits on a 550-metre cliff. If its geographical location adds to its charm, it is also its old town, with its many churches and monuments in Baroque style, which immediately attracts attention. Without forgetting to reach the upper part to enjoy breathtaking panoramas of the surrounding valley, with its touches of greenery and drier terrain. Back at the Kamirana Hotel, it is time to plan another stopover for the next day, towards the beautiful city of Modica. Built on a hillside, it also failed to withstand the 1693 earthquake and was rebuilt in the fashionable Baroque style of the time. In this incredible city, where you climb and descend the stairs repeatedly, you will be seduced by the ochre colour of the houses and the splendour of the places of worship such as the churches of San Giorgio and San Pietro. But above all, before returning home, we take a break in a café to drink a good hot chocolate, one of the best in Italy.
Heading to the south of Sicily for its dream beaches
A stay in the Kamarina Italy resort offers an ideal location to conquer the most beautiful beaches of the South. With the return of good weather and Sicily benefiting from a generous amount of sunshine, many travellers want to relax for hours in the sun, while enjoying the joys of swimming and exploring the seabed. The Vendicari beach is located inside the Vendicari nature reserve, between Noto and Marzamemi. The water is crystal clear and it is a wonderful place for snorkelling, as well as diving from the cliff to the north. Another beach not to be missed is Sampieri. It is bordered by a pine forest where you can picnic in the shade of the trees. The swimming is in shallow and safe water, ideal for the little ones. It also ends in a cliff from where you can dive into clear water. And then, between two play sessions with the children at Club Med, don't miss a trip further west towards the magnificent Scala dei Turchi. Observing the white limestone cliff shaped by erosion and wind in the form of steps, and the way the smooth rocks flow into the turquoise waters, offers great photo shoots and unforgettable memories
