Page 12 - The Rough Guide of Sicily

the dusty scirocco winds blow in from North Africa. In July and August, you’ll roast
– and you’ll be in the company of tens of thousands of other tourists all jostling for
space on the beaches, in the restaurants and at the archeological sites. Hotel
availability is much reduced and prices will often be higher. If you want the heat but
not the crowds, go in May, June or September, while swimming is possible right into
November.

Spring is really the optimum time to come to Sicily, and it arrives early: the almond

blossom flowers in early February, and there are fresh strawberries in April. Easter
is a major celebration, a good time to see traditional festivals like the events at
Trapani, Erice, Scicli and Piana degli Albanesi, though again they’ll all be
oversubscribed with visitors.

Winter is mild by northern European standards and is a nice time to be here, at least

on the coast, where the skies stay clear and life continues to be lived very much
outdoors. On the other hand, the interior – especially around Enna – is very liable to
get snowed under, providing skiing opportunities in the Monti Madonie or on Mount
Etna, while anywhere else in the interior can be subject to blasts of wind and
torrential downpours of rain.

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