August, 7 days in Sicily
It’s not just an island, it’s a feeling. A place where nature, culture, and history blend into an adventure that stays in your heart forever. It was our chosen destination for a family trip — with my brother, sister, and grandfather. For my grandfather, this was his very first flight, which made the journey even more emotional and memorable for all of us — especially when we found out he’s afraid of heights.
The breath of cities
Cefalù – a seaside town where every sunset feels like a painting. The narrow streets of the historic old town and the majestic Cefalù Cathedral are the heartbeat of this charming place — peaceful, yet full of life.
Taormina – when the sun sets over the ruins of the ancient theatre, an orchestra prepares for a concert, and Mount Etna breathes in the distance, the world seems to pause in beauty. A leisurely stroll through the lush Villa Comunale gardens and along the town’s main pedestrian street, Corso Umberto — lined with elegant boutiques, art galleries, and lively cafés — completes the experience.
Palermo – a city of contrasts and character. Home to Italy’s largest opera house, Teatro Massimo, Palermo offers breathtaking views from the rooftop walk of Cattedrale di Palermo. The Ballarò and Vucciria markets are loud, colorful, and bursting with aromas and life — a true feast for the senses. But what warms my heart the most is my all-time favorite church — Chiesa del Gesù. A Baroque masterpiece where art, faith, and history merge into one sacred space.
Chiesa del Gesù is more than just a church — it’s an experience that touches both believers and art lovers alike. And for me, that experience has stayed with me ever since.
The Power of Nature
Mount Etna – a force of nature that stirred concern before our trip to Sicily. It had recently erupted, and the darkened streets of nearby towns still bore traces of volcanic ash. We ascended Etna by cable car, reaching an altitude of 2,500 meters, where we tried to glimpse the summit through drifting clouds.
The atmosphere up there is surreal — regardless of the weather, it feels like stepping into another galaxy. This volcano has shaped Sicily’s landscape, culture, and way of life for centuries. Standing on its slopes, you can feel the raw power of nature and the deep connection between the island and its fiery heart.
Gole dell’Alcantara – a breathtaking canyon carved through volcanic rock. Narrow gorges wind between towering cliffs, forming waterfalls and crystal-clear pools filled with ice-cold water. For adrenaline seekers, there are plenty of adventure activities to dive into.
While there are many steps to reach the canyon floor, older visitors or those with limited mobility can take a convenient elevator down to enjoy the views and the refreshing atmosphere.
Scala dei Turchi – nature’s white staircase along the Mediterranean coast. These dazzling white limestone cliffs stretch along the shoreline, sculpted by wind and sea into smooth, terraced formations. It’s a truly stunning natural sight — and a beach experience unlike any other.
Marsala Salt Pans – a colorful dance of salt and wind. The salt pools and traditional windmills shift in color throughout the day, reflecting the sky in soft pinks, golds, and blues. Learn from my mistake — if you plan to visit, go at sunset. That’s when the true magic happens, and the landscape transforms into a breathtaking canvas of light and color.
Beaches
Crystal-clear and scenic beaches, beloved by many — and the crowds prove it. If you’re looking for a bit of peace and quiet, I recommend going early in the morning. That’s when you can truly enjoy the calm beauty of the coastline before the day’s buzz begins.
Beaches I recommend:
- Tonnara di Scopello – A postcard-perfect beach in a tiny fishing village. Small in size but full of charm, it feels like stepping into a Sicilian dream.
- San Vito Lo Capo – A stunning beach with crystal-clear waters, perfect for a refreshing dip on a hot August day. However, it’s a favorite among many, so we didn’t stay long due to the crowds.
- Cala Muletti, Terrasini – A hidden gem for adrenaline lovers. Tucked between cliffs, it’s a peaceful escape from the crowds — perfect for diving into clear waters. (Photo-worthy spot!)
- Riserva Naturale Orientata Cavagrande del Cassibile – A breathtaking natural reserve with beautiful swimming spots. You can even find more secluded areas to relax and soak up the sun. Highly recommended!
- Zingarello – A wide and relatively quiet beach by Italian standards. We even went for a night swim — though we did encounter jellyfish, it was a fleeting moment. We stayed overnight in this area, but I wouldn’t necessarily recommend it, as we experienced an attempted break-in to our car.
- Mondello Beach – A beautiful and lively beach near Palermo. For a quieter experience, head to the Charleston sunbathing area, which offers a more relaxed vibe.
Our Stays in Sicily
- Settegrana – A cozy and welcoming guesthouse in the small village of Cinisi. Perfect for a quiet, local experience with a homey feel.
- Limen Wellness Hotel & Spa – A modern and stylish hotel with a relaxing spa area. Ideal for unwinding after a day of exploring.
- La Dimora di Spartivento – Nestled in the hills, this stay offered a chance to swim in a scenic pool surrounded by nature. It felt truly authentic — a peaceful countryside escape.
- Domus Maris Relais Boutique Hotel – A beautifully designed boutique hotel with romantic balconies, perfect for watching the sunset and gazing out at the endless sea horizon.
Where to Eat – My Sicilian Favorites
Sicilian cuisine reflects the island’s rich and diverse history — authentic and full of flavor.
Here are some of the places I recommend for tasting it. Each spot offers its own unique atmosphere and flavor — and the best part is, you can enjoy it all without overspending.
- Ristorante Badia (Taormina) – Dinner in one of Taormina’s charming alleyway restaurants is a must. The lively atmosphere, music, aromas, and drinks create an unforgettable experience — unhurried, full of songs, dancing, and pure joy.
Try the truffle pasta – bravo! - Forma – Hands down, the best breakfast spot we found in Sicily. Delicious, beautifully presented, and full of style.
- Ristorante Trattoria La Matrice – A perfect place for seafood lovers. We enjoyed a flavorful dinner at the foot of an illuminated church — a truly picturesque setting.
- La Terrazza dell’Orologio – While the food wasn’t the highlight of our trip, the view over the city — especially at night when everything is lit up — made it worth the visit.
Getting Around by Car
Driving in Sicily is generally safe and convenient, with well-maintained main roads and highways. However, once you venture into mountain routes or beach access roads, the conditions can be a bit rougher — expect narrow, winding paths and occasional potholes.
The island is quite easy to explore by car, but here’s a key tip:
Don’t always aim for the closest parking spot near the old town centers. You might end up lost or nearly stuck in the maze of narrow streets — some of which barely fit a small car! Also, never leave anything tempting in the car, especially in plain sight. And this is definitely a place where full insurance coverage is worth it — for peace of mind and protection.
Thank you for joining me on this journey and allowing me to share my photos and experiences from Sicily.
See you in the next post!
With gratitude, Zeina
