Sicily Holidays

This triangle-shaped island at the bottom of Italy’s boot is a constant contender for globetrotting gongs. It's been nominated for World's Leading Island Destination at the last 10 World Travel Awards, so it’s easy to see why this romantic slice of Italy has clocked up so many devotees over the years.

It may be small, but Sicily is perfectly formed. Medieval villages, Roman ruins and sprawling countryside make up the island’s interiors, while vineyards, olive groves and lemon trees march down to the coastline. Then there’s Mount Etna to think about. Sicily’s volcano is the tallest in Europe and, at 10,890 feet, it towers over the cities below. In summer you'll see the slopes in their sun-kissed form and, in winter, a blanket of snow makes them ripe for skiing.

Taormina is the Italy you see on postcards. Its sand-coloured buildings are hidden behind vines and flowers that spill over balconies. And, at its centre, an ancient Greek amphitheatre overlooks the beach. Down the road from Taormina is family-favourite Giardini Naxos. Cefalu is another big-hitter. This place flaunts a maze of backstreets and a collection of crumbling Greek ruins, like the Temple of Diana.