San Domenico Palace

The San Domenico Palace tumbles downward from Taormina's main street in a melee of stone cloisters, vaulted hallways, marble and priceless paintings. The Grand Cloister is the social heartbeat and fascinatingly, there's still an ancient water well in the centre. There are several restaurants to choose from and array of fabulous menus, from Michelin-starred Principe Cerami to the laidback poolside seafood and raw bar, Anciovi. In the evening, head to Bar & Chiostro for aperitivo and nibbles, and for R&R, Botanica Spa and Wellness Centre draws on Sicily's ancient herbal traditions. There's also a 21-metre infinity pool for peaceful floats with a view.

There are 111 rooms in total, ranging from Standard Rooms to staggeringly beautiful suites, some with their own private pools. The Grandest is the top-floor Royal Suite, with its private terrace, Jacuzzi and views of the Greek theatre, but the Princess Cecile Suite that overlooks the lemon filled gardens is equally lovely. Most rooms are in the old monks' quarters, but they are anything but austere. Instead, interiors are a clever blend of old – smoked mirrors and ornate chandeliers – and contemporary – soothing, neutral colour palettes, pale linens and Modica stone. The architecture and the views really do take centre stage.

The ancient Greek Theatre is a five-minute walk from the front door and in summer, the open-air concerts are quite something. Beyond that, Mount Etna dominates both the horizon and the hotel's curated activity list: guided hikes through ancient lava fields, helicopter tours with sunset wine tasting, and stargazing with a resident astrophysicist on the volcano's slopes. Film lovers can join a Godfather location tour, while sailing excursions will take you down the turquoise coastline to Isola Bella. The hotel can also arrange cooking classes - making sushi using the freshest Sicilian seafood is a highlight!