Sicilian Summer

The capital of Malta, Valletta, is a treasure trove of architecture and art. The sight of this fortress city immediately astounds the senses. For the pop culture aficionado, Valletta’s scenery served as the backdrop for the Streets of Flea Bottom in HBO’s hit series Game of Thrones. Along the Grand Harbor travelers can capture spectacular views of the deep blue of the Mediterranean Sea. Walk along its limestone streets gazing at the colorful apartments, it is easy to get lost in wanderlust.

Syracuse holds many wonders for venturesome travelers seeking something far from the ordinary. From archaeological parks to World War II battlefield remnants to the Plemmirio Nature Reserve, the vast and diverse environment contains any level of challenge for explorers at heart. It holds 2,700 years of history with influence from other cultures like Spanish, Greek, Norman, and Arabic that have made a mark on cuisine. It is also a gateway to various small villages that are perfect for leisurely strolls through local history. Among the most notable is Noto, the “Baroque Capital” of the world. This UNESCO-protected city holds all the charms of small-town living on the island.

From Giardini Naxos through Taormina holds a diverse landscape that includes white, sandy beaches that call out to visitors to come and play. Taormina holds a treasure trove, whether it’s the Palazzo Corvaja or Duomo di San Nicola, of ancient atmospheres that entice exploration. As wanderers roam the grounds of the Ancient Greek Theater built directly into the mountains, standing amid such ruins transports everyone back to ancient live theater. The surrounding peaks of Mount Etna provide an exhilarating environment. Its various foothills and pathways make it the perfect site for hiking.

Off the coast of Sicily, the volcanic Aeolian Islands can be found, the largest of which is Lipari. But not to worry, as the island’s last eruption took place over 1,000 years ago and the only signs of volcanic activity today are fumaroles and thermal springs. From a place in ancient Greek mythology to UNESCO World Heritage status, the Aeolian Islands and Lipari hold a rich and intriguing history. Seek the ultimate views with an invigorating hike through Monte Rosa. Archaeological excavations within the citadel reveal a story dating as far back as the Neolithic era.

From the lively capital in Palermo to the fertile valley of Monreale to Cefalu on the Tyrrhenian Coast, Sicily offers incredible history, architecture, and gastronomy. Palermo serves as the gateway to the past, with royal tombs and a fascinating Regional Archeological Museum that houses sculptures and artifacts from Sicily’s past. Not far from Palermo, further architectural language can be expanded by witnessing the Cathedral of Monreale, a stunning example of the Norman style. And in Cefalu, the site of ancient Roman baths, where a Baroque-style cathedral now stands, can be seen. Wherever the trip takes in Sicily, save room for the best cannoli in all of Italy.

In a crescent-shaped coastline on the west end of Sicily, the Italian city of Trapani is located. From many of its landmarks and historic sites, views of the surrounding Aegean Islands and Tyrrhenian Sea can be discovered. Ligny Tower, located on the west coast overlooking the Sicilian Channel, stands as a proud symbol of the city. When it’s time for a lunch break, a stop at a local restaurant is recommended, and ordering the red prawns of Mazara del Vallo, known as ammaru russu in Sicilian, is a must. Trapani also lies beneath Mount Erice, the gateway to the archaeological site of Selinunte.




 

Spend the day on the high seas pampering oneself at the spa or enjoying some time on deck. Mingle with fellow explorers and swap stories of exploits, making plans for new ones together once getting to shore.

The town and commune of Porto Empedocle on the coast of the Strait of Sicily leads the way to the province of Agrigento. Here lies the connection between ancient Greece and Italy, with a smattering of ruins to explore, from the Valley of the Temples to the Temple of Juno. Spend a pleasant beach day at Lido Azzurro, lying on warm golden sands with a blue sky and sea stretching as far as the eye can see. Take a stroll through Jardin de la Kolymbethra, amid olive, citrus, and almond trees, terebinth, myrtle, and many other plants.

The Mediterranean Island Gozo is one of 21 that make up the archipelago nation of Malta. But it’s perhaps best known as Calypso’s Isle, as described in Homer’s The Odyssey. With scenes of fishing villages, serene bays, and verdant landscapes among rolling hills with small farms, it offers a quaint backdrop for a quieter adventure. But Gozo also offers ancient ruins and historic landmarks like the gantija Temples, one of the island’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites and a Neolithic limestone structure. Near the port of Mgarr is a popular beach for snorkeling and a secluded day of relaxation, Mgarr ix-Xini.

Valletta, the capital of Malta, is a treasure trove of architecture and art. The sight of this fortress city immediately astounds the senses. For pop culture aficionados, Valletta’s scenery served as the backdrop for the Streets of Flea Bottom in HBO’s hit series Game of Thrones. Along the Grand Harbor, travelers can capture spectacular views of the deep blue of the Mediterranean Sea. When walking along its limestone streets and gazing at the colorful apartments, it is easy to get lost in wanderlust.