White Almond Sicily

"A microworld where time stands still between historical references and modern elements, faraway English memories and Sicilian traditions" The Ashbee Hotel Taormina Taormina has always been renowned as a destination for English visitors since the 18th century when the British aristocracy would embark on what was known as 'The Grand Tour' visiting all of continental Europe enjoying the culture and embarking on purchasing fine works of art and antiques. Taormina was an obligatory stop on The Grand Tour and has played host to foreign visitors ever since. Being the last stop on the tour many decided to stay and make Taormina their home. Visitors chose Taormina for its peaceful location and beautiful landscapes with many drawing inspiration for paintings, poems and novels including D H Lawrence. They enjoyed Taormina’s glamourous way of life, with afternoon teas and soirees in beautiful villas and lush gardens. In 1907 construction be...

It is always a delight when a handsome young man tells you that the doors to his castle are always open to you. Once upon a time on a faraway island Off season our rescue dog Daisy loves a walk along a beach and one of her favourites is San Marco Beach which is around an 11 minute drive away from our home in Giardini Naxos and located near a small town called Calatabiano. San Marco is a long sandy slightly pebbly beach lined with tall Eucalyptus trees. Behind the trees you can see high walls surrounding a beautiful building and gardens, this is Castello San Marco. You get a tempting glimpse of the castle and its lush tropical gardens through its big iron gates and I have always been fascinated to go beyond the castle walls. Whilst having breakfast one morning with my lovely friend Giusi of Walking Eolie & Sicily, she asked me if I had ever been to the Castello and I sadly replied "No, but I have always wanted t...