Villa Sant’Andrea A Belmond Hotel, Taormina, Sicily Bliss in the bay below the historic town of Taormina With its roots going all the way back to the late 19th century when a Cornish engineer built his dream villa among lush, subtropical gardens, this secluded retreat retains all the charm of a private residence. Villa Sant’Andrea enjoys a reputation as one of the most romantic hotels in Taormina if not the whole of Sicily! Settle into a sun-dappled seat and relax. Then, when action calls, a cable car whisks you in just three minutes to the town centre, with its many cultural attractions and sophisticated shopping scene. The hotel radiates around the original villa that was completed in 1919 and has the intimate feel of a country house hotel, exuding good, old-fashioned class and style, without ever being stuffy or outdated. Considering that the hotel has 71 rooms and suites and occupies a significant plot at the corner of the incredibly beautiful Mazzaró Bay this is a credit to the easy-mannered but attentive hospitality by staff who genuinely are proud of a hotel with an enduring reputation that has welcomed guests since 1950. Featuring its own stretch of private beach, it’s no surprise that water-based activities feature heavily on the agenda here. During the summer months (mid-May to mid-September) soak up the sun on the free daily boat rides around the stunning east coast and the Ionian Sea. You’ll be able to discover the coast aboard a traditional boat, setting sail to the Blue Grotto, Isola Bella, the Gulf of Giardini Naxos, the Fortune Cave and the Siren’s Bay. Away from the beach, you’ll find spectacular panoramic views from the beautiful infinity pool, and there’s a host of Mediterranean-inspired treatments at the wellness centre. Dining here is a special treat with inspired regional cuisine served at Ristorante Sant’Andrea. possibly the most revered venue in Taormina, with fabulous views across the bay when dining al fresco on the balcony. Mediterranean Masterpieces 26
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy NjE5ODQ=