My recent trip to Sicily felt like stepping into a timeless postcard, especially during our stay on the coast near Taormina. The beauty of the landscape, combined with the hotel’s old-world elegance, created an unforgettable Italian summer experience. It’s the kind of place where life truly slows down, allowing you to savor every moment.
An Elegant Coastal Retreat
Nestled along a stunning cove in Sicily’s Mazzarò Bay, Villa Sant’Andrea embodies sophisticated Italian charm. This former aristocratic home, built in 1919 and later transformed into a hotel, retains a warm, familial atmosphere. Driving down the narrow road, the unassuming entrance gives little hint of the breathtaking beauty awaiting inside, surrounded by lush gardens and the glittering sea.
The hotel’s 69 rooms cascade down the cliffside, offering intimate settings with the gentle sound of waves as a constant companion. It feels like a private waterfront sanctuary, rather than a large hotel. The vibe here is one of effortless style and discretion, a place where luxury is felt rather than overtly displayed.
We discovered that the hotel doesn’t shout its aristocratic roots; instead, it whispers them through subtle antique pieces and pristine white walls adorned with occasional artwork. This understated elegance creates an ambience that is always spot-on, day or night. Even with its reputation and price point, you’ll find a refreshingly unpretentious atmosphere, with fellow guests often being returning European families.
Luxurious and Comfortable Rooms
The rooms at Villa Sant’Andrea are designed for ultimate comfort and style. Each space is elegantly furnished with antique furniture, colorful Sicilian ceramics, and vases brimming with fresh flowers. Plush sofas and large, inviting beds are dressed in calming neutral tones, creating a serene retreat after a day of exploration.
Most rooms boast balconies or terraces, complete with a table, chairs, and beautiful floral arrangements. These private outdoor spaces are perfect for enjoying a morning coffee or tea while gazing over the picturesque bay, or for watching the sunset paint the sky with color.
Bathrooms are a highlight, featuring pure marble, elegant brass fittings, high-end toiletries, and a choice of walk-in showers or marble-encased bathtubs. For us, the most soothing sound from our room was the gentle rhythm of the waves when the terrace door was open. We stayed in an upper-floor suite on the corner of the bay, which offered easy access to the swimming pool. The hotel also provides interconnecting and family rooms, making it suitable for various group needs.
A Taste of Sicily
Food is a significant part of the Villa Sant’Andrea experience, proudly reflecting its Sicilian identity. Dining takes place on open-air terraces, just steps from the water’s edge, or within the charming Ristorante Sant’ Andrea.
Breakfast is an event not to be missed. The buffet offers a delightful spread of Sicilian breakfast favorites, including a variety of salads, cured meats, delicious pastries, and baked sweets. You absolutely must try the traditional pistachio granita, served with cream and a warm brioche for dipping – it’s pure bliss. An à la carte menu is also available, and as expected in Italy, the coffee is outstanding.
Throughout the day, you can order drinks and light snacks directly to your beach lounger. Ristorante Sant’ Andrea truly excels at seafood, prepared Sicilian style. The focus is on fresh, local ingredients expertly handled. A perfect meal might start with a lightly marinated raw fish and shellfish starter, followed by the ‘catch of the day,’ cooked to your preference.
The sommelier is excellent at recommending wines, and I’d suggest starting with a sparkling wine from the slopes of Mount Etna. For a truly intimate dining experience, Brizza is a small, exquisite restaurant with only 16 tables laid out directly on the beach, at the water’s edge. After dinner, the Bar Sant’ Andrea is the perfect spot for a nightcap.
As a special treat, you can take the hotel’s complimentary shuttle up to the sister property in Taormina, the Belmond Grand Hotel Timeo, for dinner at Ristorante Timeo. Arriving before sunset is a must to witness the spectacular view, which is almost as impressive as the food itself. At Timeo, the meat dishes are exceptional; I highly recommend the veal roll starters, the risotto with pumpkin, cuttlefish, and white truffle, and the Madonie lamb shank with Marsala sauce. The contrast between the coastal dining at Villa Sant’Andrea and the elevated experience at Timeo offers a well-rounded culinary journey.
Impeccable and Welcoming Service
The service at Villa Sant’Andrea is both relaxed and impeccable. From the waiters who anticipate your needs to the attentive housekeepers and the knowledgeable concierge, everyone is warm, welcoming, and genuinely helpful. It’s clear that the staff take immense pride in their work; many have grown up in the area and have been with the hotel for years, contributing to its home-like feel.
The bar staff are particularly skilled at crafting personalized cocktails and are wonderful conversationalists. The concierge was an invaluable resource during our stay. A hire car was arranged within minutes of our request, and we were provided with a bespoke list of recommended places to visit, including many off the beaten tourist path. They even gave us their direct phone number for any needs that might arise.
The hotel also enhances the guest experience with complimentary boat tours around the stunning Sicilian coast during the summer months, and a regular shuttle service to Taormina ensures easy exploration of the charming town. These thoughtful additions make a significant difference to the overall guest experience.
Exploring the Surroundings
While it’s tempting to spend your entire visit simply enjoying the hotel’s private beach and the idyllic bay, venturing out is highly recommended. The hotel’s complimentary shuttle provides easy access to the stylish town of Taormina and its famous Greek Amphitheatre. Alternatively, a cable car provides a swift route to Taormina.
For the adventurous, hiring a car or booking a tour to hike on the islands famed volcano, Mount Etna, is a must-do. If you prefer a more relaxed way to experience the landscape from above, a helicopter tour is an unforgettable option. A personal highlight for our family was a drive into the countryside for body rafting in the picturesque Alcantara Canyon. Donning a wetsuit and life jacket, we joined a guided tour and giggled like children as we navigated the unique rock formations and water channels of the gorge.
Wine tasting tours and cooking classes are also fantastic ways to immerse yourself in Sicilian culture and cuisine. These activities offer a deeper understanding and appreciation of the island’s rich heritage and natural beauty. For parents traveling with young children, ensuring a mix of relaxation and engaging activities is key, and Sicily offers plenty of both.
What are the best times to visit Sicily
The shoulder seasons, immediately before and after the main summer months, are arguably the best times to visit. During these periods, Taormina is less crowded, the temperatures remain pleasantly warm, and securing hotel reservations is generally easier. The hotel does book up quickly during peak season, so planning ahead is essential for a summer visit.
What activities are suitable for families
Many activities cater well to families. Body rafting in Alcantara Canyon was a blast for us, and while young Ethan was a bit too small, Lily, who is seven, had an absolute ball. The boat tours offered by the hotel are also a lovely, relaxed way to see the coastline. Exploring Taormina itself, with its ancient amphitheater and charming streets, offers plenty of discovery for all ages. For a more adventurous outing that’s safe for older children, a guided hike on Mount Etna can be incredibly rewarding.
How to get to Villa Sant’Andrea
Catania Airport is the closest major airport, located about a 45-minute drive from the hotel. Car hire is readily available at the airport, offering flexibility for exploring the region. Alternatively, you can arrange private transfers through the hotel for a seamless arrival experience.
A stay at Villa Sant’Andrea offers the quintessential Italian summer experience. The blend of chic, old-world glamour, exceptional service, a beautiful private beach, and delicious Sicilian dishes and wines makes it a truly special destination. It’s the kind of place that leaves you feeling refreshed and inspired, and I’m already dreaming of our next visit.