Hotel Villa Fanusa ★★★★

A picturesque natural oasis awaits on the tropically blessed island of Sicily. Close to your enchanting 19th century villa, golden grains of sand carpet beaches kissed by the gentle waves of the expansive azure blue ocean. However, if you want to soak in the sun's rays without grains of sand sticking to strands of your hair, and getting caught in between your toes, plush sunbeds at the solarium will satisfy your needs. After spending a couple hours under the warm glow, dive into the outdoor, crystal-clear swimming pool to cool off.

The pool bar offers refreshing drinks and tempting cocktails throughout the day as well as leafy salads and toasted sandwiches at lunch. If you want to try an authentic taste of Sicilian cuisine, explore the local Ortygia Market for delightful flavours and enticing delicacies. Aromas of chilli, peppers and fresh fish intertwine here in an explosion of colourful scents. Why not try a speciality such as snails during your stay? Courtesy of VeryChic, you can taste traditional dishes, at a discounted rate, in the exquisite Bella Vita restaurant located in Ortygia nearby.

There is an abundance of entertainment in this theatrical corner of the mythical peninsula. When the sun sets, sit down on crumbling stone steps at a former Roman amphitheatre for a live performance of a Greek tragedy. These classical masterpieces take place in the centre of this astonishing ruin that is carved into the rock. To hear more from great Greek heroes such as Medea or Oedipus, listen to the murmurs from the rocks at the Ear of Dionysius. This aptly named limestone cave offers remarkable acoustic properties and amplifies even minute sounds. The soothing notes of fresh water, that inspired literary works, can be found in a serene spot on the island. The myth surrounding the springs of Fontana Aretusa are even mentioned in Wordsworth’s, The Prelude!