With long summers, beautiful beaches and impressive landscape that’s never short on drama, the proudly independent Sicily is an easy choice for a villa holiday in 2023. Read on for inspiration on where to stay on this stunning Mediterranean island.
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On Sicily’s northern coastline you’ll find the bustling and brilliantly eclectic capital Palermo on one end, charming Messina on the other, and, in between, the extraordinarily beautiful Cefalù. Yes, villas tend to be pricier in and around all three cities, but if you’re after luxury and location, it’s well worth it. For cheaper alternatives, look further inland, in and around towns likes Naso, Castelbuono and Valderice.
The gorgeous coastline on Sicily’s eastern shore – from the scenic Taormina in the north to the historic Siracusa in the south – is one Sicily’s most popular places for a beach break. Although undeniably lovely, during peak summer it can get very busy; for a quieter experience, try May, early June or September. Villas will be cheaper, too.
Rent a villa close to the iconic Catania for a taste of city life, next to Sortino if you want some distance from the sea (you can always get a place with a private pool, after all) or by Noto for impressive architecture and great food.
The southern and western coast of Sicily reveals a different side to the island, one that is characterised by a slower and arguably more authentic way of Sicilian life. In the extreme west, Marsala and its famous wine beckons, while further south, choose from fishing and seaside towns such as Mazara del Vallo, Sciacca, Licata, Gela, Scoglitti and Pozzallo for your villa holiday.
Away from the coastal fringes lies the rural heartland of Sicily. While great swathes of it are unoccupied, there is plenty of life throughout the idyllic countryside. Look to rent villas close to or in the mountainous town of Enna, as well as in Nicosia, Caltanissetta, Canicattì, Caltagirone and Corleone. If you find yourself holidaying in the north, Parco delle Madonie and Parco dei Nebrodi are unmissable.