5 Natural and Historic Wonders of Sicily

What makes Sicily such a unique destination?

The answer to this question is rather subjective, but there can be no doubt that the allure of Italy's largest island lies in the vast array, dizzying diversity and sheer concentration of its attractions, both natural and man-made. Head below to discover ou1r Five Wonders of the Sicilian World and to explore our exceptional collection of Sicilian villas.

One big UNESCO World Heritage Site

Sicily boasts seven UNESCO World Heritage Sites, a range of cultural and natural wonders that never ceases to amaze. There are Greek archaeological sites, a 4th-century Roman hunting lodge (Villa Romana del Casale), Arab-Norman cathedrals and churches in Palermo, Monreale and Cefalù, majestic Mount Etna (Europe's highest active volcano) and the exquisitely beautiful Aeolian Islands - a true embarrassment of choice for all tastes.

The heart of Magna Graecia

From the late 5th century BCE, Sicily was at the centre of the ancient Greek world for a few hundred years. Numerous fascinating archaeological sites dot the island from east to west and from north to south, testifying to the vibrant civilisations that made Sicily the beating heart of Magna Graecia and the Hellenic world as a whole.

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A coastline of natural wonders

Some of Sicily’s best beaches are to be found within the island’s numerous coastal nature reserves. In the southeast, Torre Salsa features mile after mile of nigh-deserted sandy beaches and marl cliffs. In the northwest, Lo Zingaro offers stunning coastal trekking paths and idyllic bays to swim from. In the southeast, Vendicari boasts sandy beaches, miles of walking paths and a series of birdwatching hides from which to twitch for flamingos, egrets and a host of other feathered friends.

Mount Etna

There can be few individual geological phenomena that dominate, intrigue and inspire awe as Mount Etna does. Europe’s highest active volcano, A Muntagna (as the locals call it) rises to 3,350m above sea level. Its vast flanks are home to remarkable volcanic landscapes and numerous picturesque towns. There is a unique range of flora and fauna, prestigious vineyards, ski pistes, and much more besides. Any trip to Sicily should include at least a day spent exploring Mount Etna's many wonders.Villas on and near Mount Etna.

Cuisine and wine

When telling us about their holidays in Sicily, the majority of our clients highlight the virtues of the island's food and wine. The sheer diversity of the cuisine, which fuses Greek, Roman, North African, Norman, French and Spanish flavours and techniques, is perfectly complemented by a wide range of excellent wines produced across the island, from Menfi to Mount Etna. We recommend you try both “at home” with our in-villa cook and wine delivery services.

To find out more about the wonders of Sicily as a holiday destination, browse through our travel guide.

Sicily travel guide.