Belmond Grand Hotel Timeo, TAORMINA, SICILY, Italy
Its domination of the finest and most dramatic location in Taormina and rooms stylishly decorated to the point of Italian Baroque opulence explain why this hotel has long been the movie stars’ favourite.
Sicily seems to have become something of an overlooked gem in recent years, although in the past it attracted royalty, political leaders and many of Europe's cultural elite.
And as Taormina's first hotel, the Belmond Grand Hotel Timeo naturally bagged itself the best location – in front of the historic amphitheatre with sweeping views of the coast.
But they didn't stop there. In typical Italian Baroque style, the furnishings are rich and opulent; the lavish Presidential Suite even has a huge terrace with a summerhouse.
In the midst of the beautiful gardens is a heated pool (if you'd prefer the beach take the private shuttle to sister hotel Belmond Villa Sant'Andrea), and the Wellness Centre will relax, refresh and revitalise. Most memorable of all though, is the main restaurant, serving fabulously delicious Sicilian and Mediterranean dishes; as well as the daily complimentary boat tour.