Sicily is a land of breathtaking coasts and lush tropical greenery, of layered cultures, fallen empires and ancient myths and mystics. Magnificent Greek ruins - Agrigento, Siracusa, to name a few - beckon the classicist. Romantics are drawn to the medieval town of Erice, the center of the cult of Aphrodite long before the Romans worshipped Venus on the same spot. More a unique destination unto itself than a mere part of Italy, Sicily should be discovered on its own.

Two of the best hotels in Sicily:

Grand Hotel Timeo

With its splendid position facing the ancient Greek Theatre, its acres of gardens, its views of snow-capped Mount Etna, and its expansive terrace with breathtaking views of the sea, this hotel has an unparalleled site.

As Taormina’s first hotel dating from 1873, the Timeo is without doubt one of the most glamorous hotels in Italy. The sumptuous rooms, with many antique furnishings, have either a panoramic balcony or terrace. The hotel’s excellent restaurant, Il Dito e La Luna, serves Sicilian and Mediterranean specialties on the terrace during good weather. There is an attractive American bar off the lobby with piano music during the evening.

While the hotel is just steps from the center of Taormina with its many shops and restaurants, a shuttle service is available to take clients down to the private beach (tan sand) at Villa Sant’ Andrea.

For 2002, the hotel expects to complete its swimming pool, the subject of much delay due to the discovery of Etruscan ruins on the site where the pool was planned. Finding a location without ruins has been the biggest challenge for the hotel! Also planned for 2002 is the completion of Villa Flora that will open as part of the Timeo adding 30 additional beautiful rooms and suites.

Mazzaro Sea Palace

Overlooking a beautiful bay with private beach, the Mazzaro Sea Palace, now boasting a five-star luxury designation, reopened in the spring 2000 after a total renovation of all its facilities. The modern structure features terraced rooms cascading down to the beach, affording each room a sea view.

The fully equipped rooms offer satellite television, fax outlet, minibar, and individually programmable air conditioning. The new accomodations also include a few suites with view terrace and private plunge pool.

Facilities include a new fitness center, a swimming pool and private beach, with major water sprots available. Guests who prefer to dine in the privacy of their terrace can do so. Others may opt for the hotel's fine restaurant which specializes in Sicilian cuisine preceded by a drink at the piano bar.