Euro Easter Magic in Taormina: A Dreamy Getaway at Belmond's Villa S'ant Andrea

Our second time staying at this Belmond's Villa S'ant Andrea and it has well and truly been 'White lotus-ed'. A true Sicilian gem with its stunning coastal views, rich history, and vibrant culture, it is the perfect spot for a spring escape. This was our second trip to this hotel —the first was before Taormina rose to fame in the popular series "The White Lotus." Experiencing it both ways deepened our appreciation for its unique charm.

Belmond's Villa S'ant Andrea

Tucked between the deep blue waters of the Mediterranean and lush hillsides, Belmond's Villa S'ant Andrea provides an ideal setting for luxury. The sister site to the infamous Grand Hotel Timeo, our hotel is perfect if you prefer not to be in the centre of town - a slightly more romantic, coastal way to see Taormina. There are shuttles every hour up to the town and to Timeo which took about 15-20 mins, so not too bad!

During our visit, the weather was perfect—mild temperatures and abundant sunshine welcomed us daily. Our mornings were spent enjoying leisurely breakfasts on the terrace, where we overlooked vibrant gardens and the shimmering sea.

Fashion Choices: Embracing Italian Designers

I always like to wear Italian designers when in Italy; Emilio Pucci, Dolce & Gabbana & Missoni paired with my favorites Emilia Wickstead, Oscar de la Renta & Carolina Herrera.

Italian fashion is my favorite in the world - I love to channel the overt Italiana aesthetic with leopard print and feminine shapes.

Culinary Delights: Pasta, Wine, and Cannoli

A standout highlight during our Easter trip was the incredible food. Taormina is truly a food lover's paradise, where culinary delights are everywhere.

We indulged in flavorful pasta dishes that showcased traditional Sicilian recipes. A standout was the Pasta alla Norma, a real local specialty which includes eggplant, rich tomato sauce, and local ricotta, which exemplified the region’s culinary heritage. Pairing our meals with local wines, like a delightful Nero d'Avola, added an elevated touch to each dining experience. I am not a huge winde drinker being slightly sensitive to histamines, but...when in Sicily..... we also had a favorite of ours, Sassicaia 2016

We found absolutely insane Cannoli at Mino Tauro Taormina - a family owned business where multiple generations are making the delicacies in the kitchen - being served fresh!

Le Bar by Louis Vuitton was surprisingly good - fantastic service and very good food. Novelty but done right.

The hotel has two restaurants - both were very good food but unfortunately service was not the best. I am not sure if it was because it was early in the season, but we were not impressed with this element.

Exploring Taormina: A Town of Wonders

Beyond the luxury of our hotel, Taormina itself promised breathtaking adventures. The ancient Greek Theatre was an absolute highlight, offering stunning views of Mount Etna and the coastline. As we navigated the narrow cobblestone streets, colorful buildings and stunning vistas tempted us to pause and take photos - high heels are a no in the town.

Being in Italy during Easter allowed us to immerse ourselves in rich local traditions with numerous processions and celebrations filled the town with a sense of community. Observing these customs warmed our hearts and emphasized the local culture. The festivities featured beautifully decorated altars adorned with vibrant flowers. Participating in these activities deepened our understanding of the wonderful culture and history that make Taormina a special place to visit.