Ramo d'Aria

Sicily is one of those captivating lands that inspires artists, poets, musicians, and more. Standing at the crossroads between west and east, where Africa and Europe meet, its dramatic landscape is pitted with enigmatic ruins and ancient monuments, testifying to the presence of many of the Mediterranean's greatest and most powerful civilizations. Its vibrant cities strike a pose with Baroque architecture and palm-lined streets, and the coast and hinterland are packed with small charming villages where time stands still. The east of Sicily faces the Ionian Sea and is overlooked by stunning Mount Etna. Just north of Giarre stands the famous city of Taormina, a stop along the Grand Tour, where D.H Lawrence once followed in the footsteps of many a distinguished writer to adore the region. I was already well versed in Taormina's charms, and though I looked forward to visiting on a day trip, I wanted something quieter this time. I wanted to be somewhere where I could explore the surrounding countryside easily and have a taste of nature. Ramo d'Aria is nestled within six hectares of lemon trees, which has to be one of my favourite smells on earth – especially when it’s combined with sea air.

From Catania airport the hotel is just over half an hour's drive and easy to locate. Once an old winery, this hotel on the hills of Etna has been converted into a sleek boutique hotel, with clean lines and a minimalism that creates a sense of clarity and facilitates relaxation. Ramo d'Aria allows nature to take centre stage. When the environs consist of the sparkling Ionian Sea and dramatic views of Mount Etna it makes perfect sense. This is a calm hotel - with only eleven rooms it will never feel busy, and it's a place where you can relax. The staff are friendly and warm and made me feel at home straight away. I was upgraded to a Superior Room and arrived to a courtesy bottle of red, local of course, which was the first time I remembered my husband wasn't with me – who was I going to share it with! It's little treats like this that make travelling with VeryChic so much fun.

Once I'd settled and taken a shower in the ensuite, – modern, with warm beige stone and dark wood – I went to explore the grounds. The hotel's contemporary interior gives way to a rustic-feeling exterior and gardens. Old noble stone meets the greenery, pine trees and fragrant flowers as well as all those bright citrus trees. The outdoor pool was stunning, surrounded by sun beds, sunshades and beautiful gardens. Breakfast was served, and a fresh mix of organic eggs, local fruits and jams, pastries and delicious homemade cakes were brought out. When you start the day with cake and coffee on a terrace overlooking the sea, not much can go wrong.

I had a wonderful week in Sicily, and thoroughly enjoyed my quiet time in the peaceful, harmonious refuge of Ramo d'Aria. I explored the surrounding area by bike, ate out at amazing little restaurants, and whiled away time in my gorgeous room or on the hotel terrace staring out to sea and half-reading a book. I went shopping in Taormina and stumbled upon vistas of soul-stirring beauty traversing the countryside. When I was reunited with my other half back home, we were both full of stories of our separate adventures … but I think I was the lucky one!