Visit this beautiful Italian island and experience the intrigue of its medieval streets when you stay at a holiday villa in Sicily. Amongst the stunning landscapes and the splendour of the coastal vistas lie many monuments and areas of interests waiting to be discovered. Sicily, the largest island in the Mediterranean basin, boasts rugged terrains with hills cascading into flatter plains and golden beaches. Its rich heritage is proudly displayed in the many museums and galleries scattered around the city. Interestingly you can visit the preserved houses of peasant farmers and day labourers which recreate living quarters of past times where you can observe their handmade tools and recreational items.
Why not enjoy the museums and galleries close to your villa in Sicily? The Aeolia Archaeological Museum in Lipari exhibits artefacts from the Neolithic era and has an array of Grecian masks and vases on display, giving insight into the Greek occupation of Sicily. For those in pursuit of beautiful art, you may wish to visit the Galleria Regionale Del Palazzo Bellamo at Syracuse. This 15th century palace hosts pieces by Sicilian artists from the 12th and 13th centuries. It also exhibits works by Caravaggio and makes for an excellent day out from villas in Sicily. If you would like to completely immerse yourself in local history, then venture from your villa and visit the I Luoghi Del Lavoro Contadino at Buscemi. This diminutive village is a museum consisting of eight workrooms and abodes, depicting life as it would have been for Sicilian peasants through the ages. Many historical locations can be visited throughout the island within easy reach of your villa in Sicily.
Sicily is a cosmopolitan island with a mixture of cultures and people residing on its Italian shores. Situated off the “toe” of Italy and in close proximity to Africa, it has invited a long and varied history of invasion and occupation, which has resulted in some amazing artefacts being left behind and a multicultural population being created. The influence of its Greek, Roman and Arab heritage is evident in the architecture of Sicily and you may wish to embark on a walking tour past the many wonderful sights of the towns and cities. There are many types of villas to rent in Sicily ranging from the traditional and secluded holiday homes with private gardens to more contemporary villas with outdoor pools and al fresco dining facilities.
You can choose to rent one of the luxury villas in Sicily which are found in the most exquisite locations and provide sumptuous facilities for your comfort. All villas are fully equipped with modern amenities, including a microwave and washing machine. If your holiday abode is situated close to the town of Cefalu, you can benefit from the pure sands and azure waters of its coastal location. Whilst exploring the town, be sure to visit the cathedral which was built in 1131 with restoration of its exterior taking place in 1559. When staying at villas in Sicily, you may also want to observe the spectacular view of Cefalu from the battlements of the Temple of Diana which lies high amongst the mountains and is considered the most ancient standing structure in Sicily. If you stay at a villa in Sicily in the summer months you can take an excursion to the Aoelian Islands and marvel at their landscapes.
Palmero is the regional capital and is the perfect location for those looking for the real Sicily and who enjoy the hustle and bustle of modern Italian life. Here you can visit the ornate churches and savour the array of brilliant architecture adorning the city. As this is also the place to enjoy fine foods and beverages you can experience a culinary holiday at your villa in Sicily. The food in Palmero is predominantly Sicilian, which means you will be tempted by the delicious pastries and sweets of the region. If you eat at the restaurants near your villa in Sicily you will notice that meals are a celebration of fresh produce and hearty sustenance, with plump olives being presented in golden pools of oil and bowls bursting with exotic salads and homemade pasta. The rich aroma of succulent sauces drift from your plate as you experience the intoxicating satisfaction of real Italian cuisine.
Palmero is renowned for its culinary prowess and the desserts made here are mouth-wateringly irresistible. You could even attempt to recreate the traditional recipes of the area and dine in the comfort of your villa in Sicily. Perhaps you would like to try the enticing sensations of Cannoli with its crisp exterior and sweet cheese and sugar filling. You may be tempted by the Frutta di Martorana which are marzipan mouldings in the shape of fruit. You can purchase many of these treats and more besides at the local markets in the region if you wish to take some back to your villa in Sicily to enjoy at a later date.