The White Lotus: Giardini, Taormina & Castelmola

Explore the charm of Giardini Naxos, Castelmola, and Taormina, where ancient history, breathtaking views, and legendary monuments come together. Discover the “Pearl of the Ionian Sea,” Isola Bella, and experience a unique journey immersed in Sicilian beauty.

The tour will begin with a visit to the seaside village of Giardini Naxos, the first Greek colony in Sicily, founded in 734 BC. Strolling along the picturesque promenade that lines the stunning bay of Naxos, you’ll have the chance to soak in the atmosphere of this enchanting corner of Sicily, which still holds traces of its ancient foundation. Giardini Naxos is the perfect place to discover the origins of Sicily, offering breathtaking views of the Ionian Sea.

After visiting Giardini Naxos, we’ll head to Castelmola, a charming mountain village located above Taormina. Here, you’ll walk along its narrow, captivating streets, leading you to the ruins of powerful Norman walls and the picturesque Piazza Duomo. In the square, you’ll find the Mother Church, rebuilt between 1934 and 1935 on the site of a previous cathedral and dedicated to St. Nicholas of Bari. From Castelmola, you’ll also enjoy a spectacular view of the coastline and the ancient theater of Taormina, which stands proudly in the background.

The final part of the tour will be dedicated to a free visit of Taormina town, one of Sicily’s most famous gems. Situated on a hill overlooking the sea, Taormina is a city rich in history and charm. You’ll walk along Corso Umberto, the main street of the historic center, lined with elegant boutiques, outdoor cafés, and artisan shops. Corso Umberto is closed at the bottom by Porta Messina and at the top by Porta Catania, the historic gates of the city.

During your walk, you’ll have the opportunity to admire some of the city’s major monuments, such as the Corvaja Palace, an imposing residence that blends Norman and Arab styles, and the Ancient Theatre, dating back to the 3rd century BC and offering spectacular views of the coast and Mount Etna. Other places of interest include Piazza IX Aprile, with its panoramic view of the valley below, the Clock Tower, the Cathedral of Taormina (the Fortress Cathedral), the Badia Vecchia, and the Palace of the Dukes of Santo Stefano.

Taormina is also a paradise for shopping enthusiasts, with stores offering local products, Sicilian fashion, and crafts.

To conclude the day beautifully, a panoramic stop will allow you to admire the enchanting Isola Bella from above, a nature reserve considered the “Pearl of the Ionian Sea” for its wild, untouched beauty. The island, connected to the mainland by a narrow strip of sand, is one of the most fascinating corners of Sicily, surrounded by crystal-clear waters and beautiful vegetation. From this point, you can also enjoy the view of the bay protected by the promontories of Capo San Andrea, which hosts the famous Blue Grotto, and the promontory of Capo Taormina, adding further allure to an already extraordinary landscape.

This experience will allow you to discover the history, art, and natural beauty of one of Sicily’s most enchanting areas, in a journey that combines culture, nature, and breathtaking views.

All details are available on the website of Etna Tribe.

Date or period:

1 April to 31 October

Info:

• Operator: Etna Tribe
• ? 39 095 8362956
• ✉️ info@etnatribe.it
• ? Reference link