In a smart holiday residence with amazing sea views, La Preziosa enjoys a privileged location just a few steps from a beautiful beach and within walking distance to a number of shops and restaurants. Historic Taormina is just 9km away, reached by car, taxi or bus.
The shingle beach in front of the residence is ideal for swimming, snorkelling or sunbathing. Paddle in the Ionian (bring your jelly shoes), swim in the clear water and enjoy evening strolls by the shore as the sun sets – this really is a stunning location. The residence has its own beach club which you can pay for or discover one of the many other summer lidos and dine in beachside restaurants a short walk away.
You can also stroll to a fishing village, around 1km away, now a pleasant seaside resort with its long beach, delightful promenade, lovely sea-food restaurants and bars. The village also has a convenient railway station with departures north to Messina or south towards Catania.
One of the main highlights of this area is the idyllic hilltop town of Taormina (9km) which can be reached by car, taxi, bus (from the local village) or even cable car from Mazzarò, around 4km away. One of Sicily’s most exquisite and historic towns, its perched position means you can enjoy incredible views. Admire the boutiques along Corso Umberto I and wander around the Borgo Medievale with its magnificent 13th century cathedral. The ancient Greek Theatre is mesmerising with views of Mount Etna on a clear day; look out for summer events taking place inside the ancient theatre. You will be rewarded with yet more wonderful vistas by climbing up Monte Tauro just above Taormina.
Back down at the coast, there are a number of beaches and seaside towns including Giardini-Naxos (8km) with all sorts of activities such as watersports, boat trips or hire as well as plenty of lidos and beach restaurants to choose from. History lovers will also appreciate the Parco e Museo Archeologico di Naxos at the southern end of the town.
Mazzarò (4km) is also wonderful with boat trips taking you to swim in the Baia delle Sirene (mermaid’s bay) or visit nearby caves. Spaggia Isola Bella enjoys a sensational location (although a little tricky to reach) with its rocky beach and there’s a little island just off the beach with its own nature reserve – a paradise for snorkellers.
There are also amazing opportunities to visit Mount Etna with many guided excursions available or train enthusiasts can visit with the Circumetnea railway, an interesting way to see some of the villages and area around the volcano with departures from Giarre-Riposto (28km). Randazzo (46km) is just an hour away by car and one of the closest villages to the summit, perhaps combine it with a visit to Castiglione di Sicilia (32km), classified as one of Italy’s most beautiful villages.
The Region
Eastern Sicily, a captivating region in Italy, boasts a rich tapestry of history, culture, and natural beauty that leaves visitors spellbound. This part of Sicily, with its enchanting landscapes and charming towns, offers a myriad of attractions and activities that beckon travellers from around the world.