Villas Taio and Gio are just 5km from Cefalù on the beautiful north coast of Sicily, within walking distance to a beach and summer restaurant. Villa Taio enjoys an especially spectacular setting atop a cliff and benefits from direct access to the sea via the rocks below, whilst Casa Gio is set just behind amongst the olive trees.
So, the most nimble of guests can climb down the steps and rocks below and be swimming or snorkelling in minutes. Or you may prefer to just wander down the lane for around 700m and reach the nearest beach, a mixture of sand, smooth rocks and pebbles, with its restaurant (summer only) and a picture-perfect setting. There are a couple of other beaches a little further away, also within walking distance but trickier to access – great for adventurers looking for idyllic spots for sunbathing and swimming in the Tyrrhenian sea.
Historic Cefalù is a much-loved seaside town with a long sandy beach and a charming centre. Get there early in busy months for a spot on its public beach or look out for lidos as well as watersports and boat trips at the port. The promenade is wonderful for an evening stroll, soaking up the vibrant ambience, or head to the heart of the town and admire the enchanting lanes, atmospheric cafes and bars, excellent restaurants and the grand Duomo in the magnificent piazza. Climb La Rocca for exceptional views of the coastline and town.
A little further away is pretty Sant'Ambrogio (13km), a wilder stretch of coastline with picturesque beaches and a traditional village. Perhaps stop off on the way to the Madonie National Park, an exceptional part of northern Sicily with glorious landscapes of olive trees, wild goats, hilltop villages and great biodiversity. Whether discovering nature, hiking through the hills or just driving to a little village for a coffee or lunch, this is a great way to discover the beautiful interiors of this part of the island.
By contrast, Palermo (66km) is a vibrant city with historic street-food markets, amazing restaurants and so much spectacular architecture, including no less than eight UNESCO World Heritage sites. It’s a city worthy of a day out and is around an hour by car or you could catch the train from Cefalù.
If you are also keen to visit some of Sicily’s archaeological sites then Agrigento (140km), on the south coast, is around 2 hours by car. Slightly closer to home, Enna (about 90 minutes away) is another one of the island’s highlights – this medieval village has been beautifully preserved and you may even be able to catch a glimpse of Mount Etna as you gaze east.
The Region
Nestled on the westernmost tip of the stunning island of Sicily, Western Sicily is a region that offers a captivating blend of natural beauty, rich history, and mouthwatering cuisine. It is a place where the ancient meets the modern, creating a unique atmosphere that leaves a lasting impression on all who visit.
