Page 13 - The Rough Guide of Sicily

FROM LEFT RISERVA NATURALE DELLO ZINGARO; PARCO REGIONALE DELLE MADONIE;
STROMBOLI

AUTHOR PICKS

Our authors have explored every corner of the island over several decades and here
share some of their top tips, favourite sights, hidden gems and quintessential Sicilian
experiences.

Unspoilt beaches Head for the wild sands of the nature reserves at Vendicari,
Marinello or Zingaro, or to the long dune-fringed strands at Sampieri and Torre Salsa.

Ancient places When the Greeks ruled Sicily it was the most powerful centre in the
Mediterranean. Outstanding among relics from this time are the Valley of the Temples
at Agrigento, the temples of Segesta and Selinunte, and the theatres of Siracusa,
Palazzolo Acreide, Tindari and Taormina.

Hot, hot, hot Sicily is crossed by a fault line, and has three active volcanoes – Etna,
Stromboli and Vulcano. As well as visible eruptions – most reliably and regularly on
Stromboli – there are other vulcanological phenomena too, from the steaming mud
baths of Vulcano to emissions of underwater gases off the island of Panarea.

Baroque and roll Sicilian Baroque reaches heights of exuberance not seen elsewhere
in Italy, from the chiaroscuro exotica of Catania and the palaces of Ortigia to the

flamboyant towns of Noto, Modica, Scicli and Ragusa.

Away from it all Come to Sicily out of season – late autumn, winter or spring – and
head to the Egadi, Aeolian or Pelagie islands for guaranteed solitude. Or find peace
inland, exploring the Madonie or Nébrodi mountains or the Pantalica gorge.

Our author recommendations don’t end here. We’ve flagged up our favourite places

– a perfectly sited hotel, an atmospheric café, a special restaurant – throughout the
Guide, highlighted with the symbol.

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