There are a few places in Europe that combine sunshine, drama and dolce vita quite like Sicily. Ever since I heard about the island’s east coast — with its beautiful beaches, volcanic slopes and history — I knew this was the perfect region to explore. It’s a land where time slows down (unless you’re driving!), lemons grow as big as your fist, and every meal feels worth remembering.

On a recent trip, we set out to explore three of the island’s most distinctive stays, each revealing a different side of Sicilian life. From the foothills of Mount Etna to the cobbled lanes of Taormina, our journey took us through vineyards, botanical gardens, and sun-warmed piazzas — all in just a few glorious days. Who says you can’t have it all here?

Monaci delle Terre Nere – The Art of Slow Living

Our Sicilian story began in the province of Catania, near the small town of Zafferana Etnea, at Monaci delle Terre Nere. This boutique country estate perfectly captures the essence of slow Sicilian living. Set between the mountain and the sea, this former monastery sits among organic vineyards, citrus groves and olive trees, framed by ever-changing views of Mount Etna.

Each room and suite blends seamlessly into nature. Traditional stone walls built from Etna’s volcanic rock meet contemporary design, while some suites feature private pools shaped like rice paddies — inspired by a ( or ‘a nod to’ ) landscape and the property’s sustainable spirit. Every detail, from handmade furniture to local artwork, feels rooted in the land.

Monaci is known for its dedication to organic farming and its own Etna wines, grown on volcanic soil that gives them a distinctive depth. We were welcomed with a complimentary bottle of Guido Coffa— the perfect start to our stay. The estate’s Michelin-recognised restaurant celebrates what’s grown on-site and nearby, and our gnocchi with Sicilian Normanno cheese was unforgettable. Another highlight is Vincotto di Guido, a sweet reduction of organic grape must created by the owner himself — a little taste of Monaci’s philosophy in a bottle that is a ‘must have’!

Guests can join experiences that reflect the rhythm of Sicilian life, including wine tastings, cooking classes, cocktail workshops featuring home-grown herbs, and guided trips to Mount Etna and nearby towns. Whether you prefer relaxing with a glass of wine at sunset at one of these beautiful suites or exploring the volcanic slopes, Monaci delle Terre Nere invites you to slow down, breathe deeply, and savour the beauty of Sicily.

If your ideal getaway involves good food, nature, and that unmistakable feeling of time standing still, this is the place.

Donna Carmela Resort & Lodges – A Botanical Hideaway

After our countryside stay, we drove through the scenic Sicilian landscape to arrive somewhere that felt like a different continent — a botanic-inspired paradise. Donna Carmela Resort & Lodges, set closer to the coast, is a stunning property surrounded by lush greenery.

Run by the Faro family, who also manage one of Italy’s most famous plant nurseries, Donna Carmela is a true botanical wonder. The gardens feature over 5,000 plant species from around the world, and walking between the villas and suites feels like strolling through a tropical oasis.

The lodges and villas are designed with effortless style and attention to detail. Guests can choose between romantic rooftop suites with views of both the Ionian Sea and Mount Etna, or private villas with their own pools overlooking the gardens. Each space is peaceful, modern and beautifully connected to nature.

Donna Carmela feels like a private oasis — quiet and serene, yet close to charming villages where you can experience authentic Sicilian life (and practise your Italian if you’re feeling brave). We spent time wandering the local streets of Riposto and joined the evening passeggiata in Torre Archirafi, just like the locals do.

After exploring, we returned to the resort’s gardens to unwind, surrounded by the scent of jasmine and the sound of cicadas. It’s the kind of place that makes you forget the rush of daily life — romantic, green and filled with Sicilian charm.

Palazzo Vecchio Taormina – In the Heart of History

Our last stop was Taormina, where at last we had time to do some sightseeing! One of the most famous towns in Sicily, Taormina sits high above the Ionian Sea and has been charming visitors for centuries. We stayed at Palazzo Vecchio Taormina, a boutique hotel right in the heart of the old town — the perfect base for exploring this enchanting place.

The hotel is housed in a historic palazzo, beautifully restored to combine its original character with modern comfort. Every corner feels special — from marble floors and arched doorways to warm Sicilian tones and elegant details. The rooms are all unique: some with Baroque touches, others more contemporary, many offering views of cobbled streets, Mount Etna or the sparkling sea. We had the pleasure of staying in the Sea View Premium Junior Suite, so our mornings began with coffee and a sunrise over Etna and Taormina — enough said!

The rooftop terrace was a highlight — the perfect spot for an aperitivo as the sun dips behind Etna. The hotel’s restaurant is considered one of Taormina’s finest, renowned for its creative Sicilian dishes and a wine list that showcases local vineyards.

From Palazzo Vecchio, it’s easy to step straight into the town’s rhythm. We walked straight to the Greek Theatre ( to get there before the crowds ! ), an ancient masterpiece with jaw-dropping views of Etna, then to the Villa Comunale gardens, filled with flowers and sea breezes. The narrow streets are lined with cafés, boutiques and endless gelato stops — the sweetest kind of exploring was to lose yourself in them.

One of our favourite moments was escaping the heat with a swim and some relaxation at Isola Bella — a picturesque island straight out of a Dolce Vita film — the beautiful beach below Taormina, followed by a sunset visit to Castelmola. This charming hilltop village, sitting above Taormina like its quieter twin, offers even better views and a more local, unspoiled atmosphere. Sipping wine and eating our last pizza in the main square as the sun set was the perfect ending to our Sicilian adventure.

Our journey across Sicily reminded us why travel matters. Each of these hotels — Monaci delle Terre Nere, Donna Carmela, and Palazzo Vecchio Taormina — offered something unique yet shared that Sicilian warmth and style of life. From slow mornings in the countryside to vibrant nights in town, it was a trip that filled every sense.

Whether you dream of vineyard views, botanical serenity or the lively rhythm of Taormina’s streets, Sicily has it all — and these three hotels capture its magic in their own beautiful ways.

Monika travelled to Sicily in October 2025. She has visited the properties thanks to Workham Hotels and Waterstone Marketing – Travel Matter partners.

To plan your own Sicilian escape or find out more about these hotels, Contact Travel Matters— we’ll help you experience Sicily the way it’s meant to be enjoyed.

(This blog has been written by Monika, Travel Matters’ Senior Travel Advisor. She visited Italy in October 2025. For more information

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From Etna’s Slopes to Taormina’s Streets: Our Sicilian Adventure