It's the food, the people, the sea, the sites, the everything ... I am just dying to go to Sicily. The island has this extra special appeal, promising a wonderful holiday and therefore has absolutely made it to the top of my 'dream destinations' list. So when I do go, I would like the full Sicilian experience.
I have to say, I have already compiled a list of the main things I want to see and do.
I would like to go to markets during the day and indulge in delicious Sicilian food, avoid the touristy restaurants and instead (attempt) to go where the locals go, see the sites but also enjoy the pace of life, and my dream: rent out a beautiful holiday villa with private pool for a true local experience rather than staying in a hotel (bonus: I have both seen in my research and heard it is not too expensive to rent out a villa in Sicily!)
Here are a few of the sites and locations that are on my list for Sicily:
Scala dei Turchi
Not too far from Agrigento, there is the Scala dei Turchi, which is a white reef that emerges from the water in all its astounding beauty. If you are a fan of Andrea Camilleri's series of detective stories about Commissario Montalbano, you'll know this spot!
San Vito lo Capo
The San Vito lo Capo coastline has sandy beaches and crystal-clear seawater. This coastline just sounds like a dream and I plan on spending some significant time here.
The saltpans
I saw some gorgeous photos of the saltpans located between Trapani and Marsala on the western coast of Sicily and would really love to see them. It's something unique that you can't see just anywhere, which makes it a site to see on my list!
Agrigento
Agrigento is one of Sicily's most famous and historical sites in Sicily. Here, there is a UNESCO archaeological park called Valley of the Temples, which has eight temples built between 510 BC and 430 BC. Walking through Agrigento and exploring here is something that will spark my mind to imagine all that the area once was and what it still is now.
Mount Etna
Mount Etna is the highest active volcano in all of Europe and understandably is a site that draws so many people to Sicily. I would love to pack some food from the local market, hike up or even take a cable car part way up, and have a picnic with a view.
Erice
I love getting a panoramic view from up high, which is the main reason why Erice is on my list (there are medieval castles to see, as well!). Erice is perched on a hilltop overlooking Trapani and is a scenic walled city accessible via a cable car that departs from Trapani. Fun fact: it was once the centre of cult dedicated to Venus, the goddess of love.
That's my list for now, though I am sure I will continue to add more to it before I finally get to go. The island is just full of gems, UNESCO World Heritage sites, and wonderful places. I know that wherever I am in Sicily, I'll have a gorgeous view and a smile on my face.
Where is next on your wish list? Have you already started planning what you'd do?
Chloe xx
*Post in collaboration with freelance travel writer, Emily Jones
