How to Make Sicily Your Most Romantic Vacation Yet

Randazzo is an interesting stop along the trail and the town is worth a visit. This medieval city is closest to the top of Mount Etna and is completely built of lava stone. A trip from Catania to Randazzo takes 2 hours and costs € 8.20 per person (return). It’s good to check the Circumetnea timetable in advance.

Go For the Wine Tasting

For such an old wine region, Italy’s Mount Etna is young by modern standards. Bottled wines have only been produced here for a few short decades, yet the rapidly growing interest in the native varieties grown on the slopes of Europe’s largest and most active volcano is taking the wine world by storm. But make no mistake about it. Mount Etna wine is not Italian wine.

First and foremost is the fact that Etna’s soil is rich with volcanic nutrients that are very hospitable to growing grapes. The region is the highest commercial vineyards in the world. The high elevation is also an inviting environment for growing grapes. And grapevines benefit from the hot Mediterranean sun. While the warm Mediterranean breezes extend the growing season.

Mount Etna

You can’t see Sicily without a visit to Mt Etna. The lava and smoke make quite the first impression flying into Sicily. Hence, it’s just a little unsettling to be living at the base of the largest active volcano in Europe. As a result, Mount Etna has devastated Catania more than once over the city’s centuries-old existence. Therefore most of Catania’s architecture is Baroque. In addition, many parts of the island still have Greek and Roman architectural remnants. The last eruption was way back in March. So it’s a real consideration.

Hosting House Guests: 10 Simple Ways to Keep Them Comfortable

Stay at an Agriturismo

Skip the chain hotels and enjoy an inspirational stay at a working farm called an Agriturismo. An agriturismo is an Italian farm, hotel, and restaurant. The latter is generally better than any other restaurant because everything they serve is grown or slaughtered there.

The Agriturismo I stayed at was more than a thousand feet above sea level. The property, surrounded by vineyards, was lush and romantic. The farm produced its own wine, oil, honey, and cheese. The food was so freaking good. Simple but delicious. Make sure to make a reservation when you want to dine at the hotel.  Food is seasonal. And as a result, there are normally menuless. However, don’t hesitate to eat whatever they serve you. And don’t forget your Kindle.

Island Hopping

Charter a yacht for a week and sail the tiny islands off the coast of Portorosa or Trapani to the north or west, respectively. You can eat delicious seafood pasta on ancient fishing villages like Lipari. Or enjoy a long hike up the active volcano on Stromboli to watch the lava spurt against the night sky. Or just lounge with your honey on the deck of the yacht as you cruise past the crumbling ruins built into the cliffs with a cool drink in your hand is the ultimate example of Romance in Sicily.

Like it. Pin it.

 

I love sharing stories, lessons from abroad, and tips for curious travelers. If my work has inspired you or made you smile, please buy me a coffee. Your support helps me keep the blog running—at no cost to you.

My articles are available as mobile apps for offline reading and GPS-assisted directions.

Download my articles on GPSMyCity.

This post contains sponsored and/or affiliate links, and I may earn a small commission.

 

 

---

Discover more from Duffel Bag Spouse Travels

Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.

Type your email…

Subscribe

DESTINATIONS & CITY GUIDES EUROPEItalySicily