San Domenico Palace Hotel, Sicily

Take a step back in time with a stay at the luxurious San Domenico Palace, a mindfully renovated 15th-century monastery and member of Leading Hotels of the World that oozes history, elegance and style.

Location

This magnificent former monastery is set among extensive lush citrus groves and gardens on Sicily's beautiful east coast, halfway between Messina and Catania with stunning views of Mount Etna and the sweeping Taormina Bay. It’s a delightful 10-minute walk into Taormina town and its excellent shopping and dining, elegant bars and the famous ancient Greek-Roman theatre.

Accommodation

San Domenico Palace has 105 beautifully furnished bedrooms split between two distinct wings – the garden wing that houses the original monks' quarters and the more modern grand wing. The hotel's classic rooms have views over the old cloisters and Taormina, superior rooms feature sea views, and deluxe rooms, all in the grand wing, boast sea views and a balcony. Every room in the hotel is furnished in a classic style to reflect the history of the building, and features all modern comforts.

Dining

The food options at San Domenico Palace are second-to-none with the wonderful Principe Cerami – named after the Sicilian nobleman who converted the monastery into a hotel – offering a two-Michelin-starred al fresco dining experience. For a more casual dining Les Bougainvilées offers Sicilian specialities and a menu of international favourites in the charming setting of the former refectory. The Giardino dei Limoni offers summer-long light Mediterranean, regional and seafood dishes beneath a poolside pergola.

Facilities

Around the hotel, you can relax by the intimate pool, stroll through the beautiful gardens, or enjoy the shade of the charming courtyards. There's a beauty parlour, gym and boutique, and the concierge service offers anything from a shuttle service to a private beach at Lido La Pigna to restaurant recommendations and bookings, boat tours of Taormina Bay or a thrilling helicopter ride over Mount Etna.