The lure of travel to Italy is well deserved. The scenery, food, weather (at the right time of year) is, well, to put it simply, bliss.
In Sicily, one may choose to visit a variety of locations. Palermo is perhaps the most well known but these days it’s too well known and overrun with tourists. One may be overwhelmed by the ratio of tourists to locals.
Taormina, however, is beautiful as is and with a local culture that is as friendly as can be. Walking through the streets of Porto Messina transports you to a time and place where life was more about artistry and social connections versus efficiency for the masses.
And just a short cable car ride away, the beaches in Mazzaro provide views of sea cliffs, the blue ocean and elegant hotel terrace architecture and flora.
Although the streets are narrow and one may feel a bit uneasy walking along the edges, it is quintessential Europe and delightfully authentic Sicily. Small shops, gelaterias, cafes, pharmacies, line the streets with customers pulsating in and out of the entrances.
Mazzaro Sea Palace - Dining
At the Mazzaro Sea Palace, a five star hotel, the service is impeccable, particularly at the dining facilities. And each dish is produced with care - almost every bite is one to be savored. No dish would have been bested by the most highly rated counterpart in the U.S. Even the pizza was something to write home about.
And the drink of choice whether at lunch or dinner, was a local Sicilian wine – whether white or red – it tasted delightful and most fitting for the vibe. Much of the wine is high quality due to the mineral rich soil where vineyards thrive in the biologically diverse Mount Etna.
Of course, espresso, café americano and Tiramisu should not be overlooked. Its abundant supply was never taken for granted. Served in different styles whether custard and creme heavy or more pronounced cake presence, it was always perfect leaving one desiring more.
Mazzaro Sea Palace - Accommodations
Rooms with an ocean view and a generous balcony layout make for accommodations that are uniquely pleasing. Regardless of which floor your room is on, you will have a majestic view of the ocean and the cliffs that line the horseshoe shaped beach.
The suite space is generous enough with comfortable yet elegant decor where eating in is a decent option on nights where relaxing is prioritized. The beds are certainly excellent for a solid night’s rest.
The bathroom is fully equipped, modern and spacious with glossy marble floors, large wide mirrors and showers with ample room to move around.
