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.

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!