Local Wonders Travel

Italy

Sicily

Located on one of the most enchanting and unspoilt stretches of the Sicilian coast, in the bay of Taormina, the Mazzarò Sea Palace is a 5-star luxury hotel right on the seafront. The colours, fragrances and sunlight of the Mediterranean enhance the private terraces of the 68 bedrooms and suites, decorated in contemporary style and all with sea view. 

Bathed in Mediterranean light, all the rooms in the Mazzarò Sea Palace overlook
one of the most beautiful bays of Taormina and the sea, the only sound being the gentle lapping of the waves.
The interiors are in contemporary style, with some design pieces, and light, restful colours.

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Mazzarò Sea Palace

Enjoy one more breakfast at Baglio Occhipinti and then drive up to Taormina, the famous and exclusive town set on the top of a hill, and elected as great vacation spot by famous actors and writers. 

The drive will be approximately 2 hours and once in Taormina the day will be at your leisure. Along the way you can stop in one of the following locations: 

- Syracuse; 
- Pantalica necropolis;
- Marzamemi;
- Catania

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Self-drive to Taormina and time at your leisure

What do Goethe, Alexander Dumas, Johannes Brahms, Gustav Klimt, D.H. Lawrence, Richard Wagner, Oscar Wilde, Truman Capote, John Steinbeck, Ingmar Bergmann, Francis Ford Coppola, Leonard Bergman, Marlene Dietrich, Greta Garbo, Federico Fellini, Cary Grant, Gregory Peck, Elizabeth Taylor, and Woody Allen have in common? Simple - they have all sojourned in Taormina, the pearl of the Mediterranean. Beautifully restored medieval buildings, breathtaking views around every corner, and an intricate network of winding streets strewn with shops, bars, and restaurants make for a perfect holiday spot.



Taormina

Sicily's second-largest theater sits right in the heart of Taormina and has some of the best views in town. The ancient Greek marvel dates to the 3rd century BC and is still used for concerts and other performances, with acoustics that have stood the test of time.

Ancient Theater of Taormina (optional) 

In Sicily, there is an enchanted place always dedicated to the cultivation of vines, olive trees and, the production of quality wine. A place preserved by men in respect of Nature where a 17th-century building stands. Over time, the block expands to become a real Baglio, where the fence walls become a protective embrace for all the families who work there cultivating the land and reaping the benefits. Today that place is a charming relais in which to regenerate immersed in the most authentic nature of Sicily.

Baglio Occhipinti is a charming place where twelve rooms, renovated respecting the territory and original architecture, allow guests to live a complete experience of well-being and regeneration. Here Nature is not only a backdrop, but it is the mother who generates the fruits to feed on. Baglio Occhipinti is also a totally organic farm, so the concept of well-being starts from cultivation to arrive at the table in the rediscovery of traditional recipes.

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Baglio Occhipinti

Today it is time to leave Palermo for taking off a new adventure!

In the morning your driver will take you to the rental car garage and here you will collect the rental car we will reserve for you. 

You will then start to drive south for reaching the stunning Val di Noto valley, a wonderful area completely rebuilt in Baroque style after an earthquake destroyed it in 1693. Ragusa, Noto, Modica and Scicli are some of the pearls you will find in this area. 

To make your stay more unique and exclusive we will reseve your accommodation at Baglio Occhipinti a top class agriturismo with a wondeful garden, that will be your home for the next three days.

Today it will be at your leisure, and the drive is approximately 3 hours, but should you like to stop along the way for a visit or a break, we will be happy to give you some suggestions. 
Below a few ideas:

- take a little detour for visiting the stunning village of Cefalù;
- stop for a visit of Castelbuono village;
- visit one of the wineries along the route of nisseni wines;
- enjoy a trekking in the Parco delle Madonie;
- visit Villa Romana del Casale in Piazza Armerina;
- visit the town of Gangi or Enna. 



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Self-drive to Baglio Occhipinti and time at your leisure 

CefalÃ¹ is an extraordinary seaside little town, with a crystalline sea and a beautiful cathedral. But the protagonist of the landscape is La Rocca, the mountain behind CefalÃ¹ that seems to stand there as a warrior guarding a treasure chest. There's more to this charming resort town than just swimming and sunbathing. This spot is also well-known for its Norman cathedral, medieval old town, archaeology museum, and, of course, its seafood.

Cefalu (optional)

After a delicious breakfast with the pleasant sea breeze whispering the good morning to you,  head into the city for a one-of-a-kind experience.

In a private class with a local artisan, you will master the unique craft of making Cannolis. This hands-on cooking class will take you through the entire process of making this iconic Sicilian treat while learning the secrets of skilled artisans. 

Cap off the experience with a tasting session featuring a variety of sweets. This immersive journey promises to leave your taste buds satisfied, and your appreciation for Sicilian cuisine heightened.

After your tour into the world of Sicilian treats, the rest of your day will be yours to enjoy as you see fit. Keep exploring Taormina, relax at your stunning hotel, or dine at one local restaurants. 

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Taking in the sweet side of Taormina

In a private lesson, you will work closely with local artisans to understand the process of crafting cannolis from start to finish. This hands-on experience will provide you with lasting expertise that you can bring home with you. Afterward, enjoy sampling other delicacies these chefs have created. 

Cannoli Cooking class

If you are looking for an evening activity, take the steep climb to the top of Monte Tauro for stunning views—extra points for a sunset viewing. The short climb to the top of Monte Tauro (378m) is not exactly Himalayan, but it is steep, and the final steps are quite hard work. Your reward is a breathtaking panoramic view over Taormina's rooftops, the Teatro Greco and, beyond, to the coast.

Monte Tauro (optional)

Spectacularly perched on the side of a mountain, Taormina is one of Sicily's most revered destinations, a chic and inviting town popular with those wanting a taste of Sicilian dolce vita.


The Val di Noto is not just a bastion of Baroque architecture. Did you know it's also celebrated for its chocolate?

Modica, one of the valley's stunning Baroque jewels, is famed for its distinctive chocolate, which has been produced here for centuries. Today, you'll have the opportunity to visit a local artisan workshop that creates top-quality Modica chocolate. You'll explore the unique production steps that give this chocolate its grainy texture and aromatic richness, a method that dates back to the Aztecs and was brought to Sicily during the Spanish rule. The tour culminates in a delightful tasting session where you can savor the deep, robust flavors of this ancient chocolate tradition.

This activity will last approximately two hours, and it will be in the morning.  

After some time at your leisure for lunch, in the afternoon, you will then be charmed by a visit to the Baglio Occhipinti Estate to taste thier superb wines. 

Note Modica is approximately 45-minute drive from your accommodation. 

Modica

Chocolate adventure and wine tasting at Baglio Occhipinti

Modica is known for its signature chocolate that is only made in Modica. Today, you will have an opportunity to sample and learn the city's unique process during a private, guided tour. 

Chocolate tasting

Winemakers are very welcoming and love to open the doors of their estate to visitors. Both adults and teenagers enjoy visiting wineries because of the atmosphere, the beautiful scenery and of course the wine (for adults only). Wine production in Italy  is part of the culture and of the rich heritage of this land. Winemakers do not consider their work not as a job, but as the mission of looking after their land and preserve the traditions of their ancestors.  

Winery visit

Today, you'll ascend to new heights to explore the impressive Mount Etna, an active volcano.

First, your guide and driver will escort you to Mount Etna, where you'll embark on a gentle hike. This will allow you to admire the beauty and majesty of this active volcano up close.

Afterward, you'll visit a local woman’s farmhouse, where you'll have the opportunity to connect and enjoy a home-cooked lunch. This experience adds a personal touch to traditional Sicilian cooking, as you savor the flavors of authentic local cuisine.

After lunch, your driver will return you to your hotel, and you'll have the remainder of the day to relax or explore at your leisure.

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Mount -Etna half day exploration with lunch in a private home

Dominating the landscape of eastern Sicily, Mt Etna is a massive brooding presence. At 3326m it is Italy's highest mountain south of the Alps and the largest active volcano in Europe. It's in an almost constant state of activity, and eruptions occur frequently, most spectacularly from the four summit craters but more often, from the fissures and old craters on the mountain's flanks. 

Mt Etna

Your afternoon will finish with a delicious lunch at a local Sicilian farmhouse. Take in the way of life of the locals while savoring their unique personal twists on classic Sicilian dishes. 

Lunch with a local

Today you will experience a unique e-bike ride, that will take you exploring a beautiful area around Ragusa. The bike ride will be done on an e-bike, with private guide and baby-seat.
This way it will be possible to set the route on your preference and on what you feel like doing. 

During the bike ride you will pass through the stunning Ragusa, to admire one of the most impressive towns you can find in Sicily. 

At lunch time, you will stop in a private home for enjoying a cooking class followed by a delicious lunch with the food you have just prepared. You will be back to your accommodation in the afternoon and the rest of the day will be at your leisure. 

Note. You will self-drive your car till the meeting point with your bike guide that will be approx 30-40 minutes drive from your accommodation. 
E-bike and helmets will be provided. 

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e-Biking in the beautiful Noto valley and cooking class in a private home

One of the most fascinating towns in Sicily, Ragusa has caused many visitors' jaws to drop when they first set eyes on it. Essentially Baroque, the Ragusa you will see today dates almost entirely from 1693. It was in that year that Ragusa, along with its neighbors Noto, Modica, Scicli, and Catania, was razed to the ground by a terrible earthquake that hit most of the eastern side of Sicily. Public opinion on where to rebuild the town was divided, and so a compromise was made. The wealthier, more aristocratic citizens built a new town on a different site, now Ragusa Superiore, while the other half of the population decided to rebuild on the original site, on a ridge at the bottom of a gorge, now known as Ragusa Ibla. The two towns remained separated until 1926 when they were merged to become the chief town of the province.

Ragusa (optional)

In Italy, food is considered a mix between art and passion. Food is not only about eating, it is about culture, traditions, and sharing a good time with friends. You will learn the secrets of Italian food while enjoying a very relaxing atmosphere. 

Cooking class

Historic icon of Palermo hospitality, the Grand Hotel et Des Palmes renews its image
and enters a new era of glamour, innovation and tradition.

In the sumptuous halls, the past dialogues with present, in a multitude of fine works, refined fabrics,
antique and modern furnishings, harmoniously integrated in the extensive restoration.

Experience the emotion of walking through the salons of the former residence of Ingham-Whitaker family
and pause to admire the fascinating details of the majestic lobby with its high frescoed ceilings
and original Art Nouveau stained glass windows, along with the Winter Garden,
designed by architect Ernesto Basile, a brilliant exponent of modernism and Art Nouveau.

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Grand Hotel et Des Palmes

Palermo is a marvelous city with elegant palaces, impressive churches and very lively markets. Palermo has always been a fascinating melting pot of cultures and religions: Phoenicians, Greeks, Romans, Arabs and Normans passed in Palermo and you can see these influences in the style of Palermo buildings, in Palermo food and even in the local people. Our expert and licensed guide will take you around Palermo for showing all this beauty and telling you about Palermo interesting history. You will see the main sights like Quattro Canti, Fontana Pretoria, famous markets, the Arab-Norman Cathedral and the square where Teatro Massimo is. 
Since our guide is also part of a non-profit anti-mafia movement, you will also have a very interesting insight on the mafia problem and on how local people are finally successfully rebelling to the Mafia's protection racket.

The total experience will last approximately 3 hours and the rest of the day will be at your leisure. 

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Palermo guided walk including insight on the anti-mafia movement (private guide)

Learn about the Mafia and the civil anti-mafia movement while walking through the picturesque historic center of Palermo. Discover a city that is finally rebelling against the Mafia's protection racket. One of the superb Addio Pizzo guides will show you the brightest sides of Palermo, explaining the Mafia phenomenon beyond clichés and myths. It is a unique experience; there will be chances for reflections, learning and discovering an authentic side of a beautiful city.

No Mafia Tour in Palermo

The grand scale of the Metropolitan Cathedral of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary, a.k.a. the Palermo Cathedral, simply cannot be understated. 
Works began in 1185 on this edifice that was technically completed in the Middle Ages. But the cathedral saw subsequent additions and alterations throughout the 18th century. A treasure trove awaits inside too, where you can see tombs and sarcophagi of European kings, emperors, and other rulers and relatives, along with magnificent examples of Gothic-Catalan architecture and treasury artifacts. 
(Ticket price to be checked)

Palermo Cathedral (option)

Palermo is a shopping paradise. And there are several main street markets in the city, each with specialties like fruits and vegetables, seafood and meats, prepared foods, discount clothes, and antiques. All stay busy all day (and sometimes into the evening, too) with locals and tourists who come to shop, sample new foods, sip drinks and even dance into the night. Keep a close eye on your belongings, especially if the market is crowded.

Mercati di Palermo (optional)

Today, you will experience the breathtaking seascape of Taormina. After breakfast, you will set sail on a private boat for a tour through the most picturesque bays of Taormina and Giardini Naxos.

The coastline here offers a stunning display of natural beauty, with a series of small beaches, secluded bays, and dramatic caves embedded in the rocky cliffs. During your cruise, you'll have the opportunity to stop at various coves and beaches, where you can go snorkeling or take a swim in the crystal-clear blue waters.

This half-day experience will conclude in the early afternoon, giving you plenty of time to relax or explore further on your own.

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Hitting the water

Another beautiful coastal town that provides views similar to Taormina but has a quieter atmosphere. 

Giardini Naxos (optional)

This private boat tour will show you a different point of view of Sicily's stunning beaches and water. As you sail through the various bays, enjoy relaxing under the sun and jumping in the water for a refreshing dip. 

Boat Excursion

"Arrivederci" means goodbye because we hope you'll take home amazing memories, and we hope to see you again. 

You will drive to Catania airport where you will leave your rental car before boarding your flight to NY. 

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Arrivederci!

Welcome to Italy, and in particular, to Sicily! This enchanting island will captivate you with its stunning landscapes, rich traditions, and fascinating history—not to mention the incredible food. The locals are friendly and always eager to share the land they deeply love.

After landing at Palermo airport, a professional driver will wait for you for taking you to your centrally located hotel. 

The rest of the day will be at your leisure for relaxing or starting exploring this incredible city. 

Should your prefer, we can arrange for this afternoon the exclusive guided walk planned for tomorrow.  

Palermo Theater

Palermo Market

Explore the stunning architecture of Palermo Cathedral in Sicily, Italy, under a bright blue sky.

Benvenuti in Italia! Welcome to Italy! 

Palermo is the main city of Sicily, elegant and proud of its own history. All visitors are charmed by the variety of styles you can admire in Palermo: Baroque, Byzantine, Norman-Arab. Palermo is lively and you cannot miss a visit to its markets, like Ballarò or Mercato del Capo. From arancini to gelato and seafood, the food in Palermo is amazing and there are plenty of options for an intense and delicious flavor experience.