Villa Diodoro, Taormina, Sicily, Italy

• close to centre of Taormina • next to the public gardens of Villa Comunale • 10 minutes drive to Taormina Mare and beach at Hotel Caparena

Built into the hillside, the Hotel Villa Diodoro enjoys a prime position close to the historical centre of Taormina with stunning views of the bay of Naxos and Mount Etna. The hotel retains its over one hundred year historic roots with traditional and elegant décor. Lush gardens surround the hotel and the stepped pathway down to the panaoramic outdoor pool, where guests can relax with a tasty lunchtime snack or cocktail at the pool bar, or simply soak up the glorious Sicilian sun on a lounger. The 'Il Vecchio Carrubo' à la carte restaurant serves fresh, locally inspired Mediterranean dishes fused with international cuisine in elegant surroundings. Be sure to visit the stylish private beach area at Hotel Caparena with its funky beachside bar and restaurant, the perfect place to enjoy the crystal clear waters of the Ionian Sea.

• outdoor freshwater pool with sun loungers and parasols (open May-Sept, weather permitting) • pool bar serving snacks • 'Il Vecchio Carrubo' à la carte restaurant • lounge area with large, panoramic windows • piano bar 'Il Vecchio Carrubo' with sun terrace and views of the Ionian Sea • extensive lush gardens surrounding the hotel • fitness room • extra charge for beauty treatments • stylish and relaxing private beach at sister Hotel Caparena with sun loungers, parasols, beach bar, restaurant and changing facilities with extra charge for shuttle bus service • extra charge for use of spa and wellness facilities at Hotel Caparena and Grand Hotel San Pietro • extra charge for WiFi • concierge service offering local information and booking of excursions and activities • FREE outdoor parking • lift • 102 rooms

for 2 people on half board sharing a classic room with twin beds, private bath, shower and WC. Superior rooms with a balcony and side sea view or garden view and superior rooms with a balcony and front sea view are available at a supplement. Quad rooms are also available and rooms for sole occupancy are available at a supplement. All rooms have satellite TV, hairdryer, minibar, safe and air conditioning (Jun-Sept).

• hot and cold buffet breakfast • 3 course evening meals taken in the 'Il Vecchio Carrubo' à la carte restaurant with choice of all courses