Exploring the Wild West Of Sicily

The largest of the Mediterranean islands, Sicily is the also the largest region in Italy, symbolized by the Trinacria, the mythological three-legged shape. A place simply drenched in history and the home to many a powerful and influential civilization, this is a fascinating and diverse island. Home to some incredible archeological sites, beautiful remnants of its classical past, stunning architecture of the Baroque and Norman eras, and the highest active volcano in Europe, the island is one that offers the discerning traveller much to discover. If you are searching for your ideal Italian break, choose to stay in one of the many wonderful villas in Sicily and explore the island at your own pace.

Villas in Sicily have become the ideal accommodation choice and, with excellent travel companies offering a comprehensive portfolio of properties in a variety of locations, there are many to choose from. Each property is carefully picked because of its quality of accommodation, convenient location and suitability for rental. Dotted all over the island, you can choose to be right on the beach, close to a small town or set deep into the Sicilian countryside. Catering for different group sizes and often coming with a swimming pool and ample outside space, these villas in Sicily are a popular choice for families, groups of friends or even romantic couples.

The Undiscovered West

For the real Sicilian experience head to the less touristy western side of the island. Scopello, a short distance from Palermo, is a great place to start. Bursting with local flavour, this seaside town is off the beaten tourist track and offers a truly traditional experience. The town bakery serves delicious pastries made on the premises and bread served warm, just out of the wood fired oven. Dipped in Sicilian olive oil, sprinkled with sea salt and eaten with the delicious pecorino sheep’s cheese, this simple snack will set you up for the day. This village is famous for its ‘Tonnara’, its tuna fishery, nestled into a bay and surrounded by quaint fishermen’s cottages and old warehouses. Part of the film Ocean’s Twelve was filmed in this village.

Close to Scopello is the Zingaro Nature Reserve, a stretch of completely unspoiled coastline where you can spend hours walking and exploring. Hire a guide and learn about the diverse flora and fauna of the island, and discover the delightfully hidden and rather sweet pebbly coves of the region.

Further west is the famous city of Marsala, which has relatively few tourists. Back in the eighteenth century the British were a prominent feature in the city thanks to John Woodhouse who, on an unplanned visit, discovered a taste for the local wine and made it the famous tipple it is today. A surprisingly dry drink, the real Marsala is nothing like the exported sweet syrup we are more familiar with. It was made to complement the pungent herbs of the island, the chili, the capers, the lemon zest and the local sea salt so common in the cuisine. Mozia, an island in the Stagnone Lagoon close to Marsala is famous for its incredible saltpans, which you can visit. Take the little ferry across, spend some time in the museum and even watch the workers busy grafting away.

Villas in Sicily are found all over the island, but if you want some off the beaten track action head to the west and explore a simpler and arguably more raw side of this beautiful island.

Looking for your perfect home away from home in Italy? Mark Slaviero is a Director of Holiday Homes in Italy, a company specialising in finding the holiday home, villa or apartment of your dreams. For the ideal villas in Sicily and accommodation in Tuscany, the Amalfi Coast, the Italian Lakes, ski resorts and more, we offer the best in every region.

Writer and Online Marketing Manager in London.