Sicilian East Coast

The Sicilian East Coast, also known as Ionian Riviera, running up the east coast from the bustling lava-stone city of Catania through a series of charming fishing villages and beaches to the enchanting town of Taormina, is certainly one of Sicily's most intriguing areas. The entire coastline is dominated by the magnificence of Mount Etna, whose presence has shaped the entire area both geologically and historically from time immemorial. The towns and villages that dot the flanks of Etna, all built in lava stone, are well worth stopping off at for a stroll or a spot of lunch in a local trattoria. North of Taormina, running up to Messina, are the Peloritani mountains, home to millennial villages, deep valleys and stunning views. The area around Mount Etna is famed for its mushrooms, sausage and blood oranges, whereas in Catania you should try, arancini, ice cream and granite. Vineyards cover the lower fertile slopes of "A Muntagna", as the locals call their volcano, and the wine produced, using local grape varieties such as Nerello Mascalese, is generally of excellent qualtiy. Catania, with its vibrant markets, restaurants and bars is marvellously free of tourists. North of Catania, the traditional resort towns of Acireale, Acicastello and Acitrezza have long been a magnet for local day trips and offer arguably the best Granita to be found anywhere.