Places to see in Taormina & the east

A small wooded islet joined to the shore by a shingle spit that appears and disappears with the sea, in a bay below the town. Reached by cable car and a walk down. Pebbles rather than sand, and clear water — bring something for your feet.

The ruined castle above the village of Castelmola, higher again than Taormina, with a view down over the theatre, the coast and Etna in one turn. A steep walk up from town or a short bus. The village itself is tiny and worth the almond wine.

A Greek theatre rebuilt by the Romans, cut into the hillside so that the stage opens onto Etna and the coast below — the setting is the reason to come rather than the ruin. Still used for summer performances. Go at opening or late; the middle of the day is very hot and very full.

The protected islet itself, walked on a short marked path through Mediterranean planting with the bay on both sides. Separately ticketed from the beach below and takes about half an hour. Snorkelling off the rocks around it is the better half of the visit.