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Sicily true Mediterranean romance

This newsletter is dedicated to Sicily – the island of a million contradictions. Sicily has something for everyone: breathtaking scenery, world-renowned architecture, fantastic cultural heritage, fabulous food and wine, sport, and let’s not forget, sun, sea and sand.

It’s the perfect holiday destination, whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway, an activity holiday for all the family, or simply somewhere to relax and soak up a different way of life. And naturally, at Essential Italy we've got properties that will suit all tastes and needs, whether it's a spring break for two or a two week vacation for extended family in August.

We’ve pulled together some of the newest additions to our Sicilian portfolio, and sprinkled in some old favourites, together with some suggestions as to what to see and do when you get there.
For a personalised service, or to book any of these properties, please call Helen or Louise on +44(0)1223 460100 and we'll hand-pick the best that Italy has to offer for you.

New for 2012 Hand–picked for you

A gastronomic paradise
Food and wine to fall in love with – again and again

Sicilians are very proud of their food and wine. Food is a way of life here and most villages will honour their local speciality in a festival at some point during the year - from couscous (San Vito do Capo) to chocolate (Modica) to fish (Mazara del Vallo) to strawberries (Siracusa) to yes, gelati (Cefalu).

There was a time when the only Sicilian wine you would find abroad would be Marsala , but producers such as Marabino and Planeta have helped to popularise local grapes and wines such as Nero d’Avola, Moscato di Noto and Moscato Bianco. The Val di Noto now has its own DOC appelation, like the best French wines.

Many of our owners live on or near the properties they rent out, and most will be more than happy to demonstrate local dishes (more often than not using herbs and vegetables grown in their own gardens), or point you in the direction of the best quality local food.

One things for sure, you’ll come back wanting more.

View all our properties in Sicily »

New for 2012 More of our newest additions

The crucible of the Mediterranean
‘Several thousand years of human endeavour’ in one small island

Sicily has historically been a meeting point of various cultures - Arab, Norman, Greek, Roman and countless others. It has at various times been an Emirate, a Kingdom, part of the Roman Empire and is now an autonomous region in the Republic of Italy.

The evidence of this rich history is everywhere, from the Greek theatres of Siracusa and Taormina, to the Sicilian Baroque architecture in Noto, the Valley of Temples in Agrigento and the melting pot that is Palermo, the island’s capital.

Yet despite, or perhaps because of, these various influences, a distinct Sicilian culture has emerged. Local folklore and customs such as puppet theatres (Siracusa, again) thrive alongside revivals of ancient Greek classics. Sicily also hosts many international festivals, notably celebrating jazz and film.

We’re happy to advise on the best times to go, or to provide ideas or schedules for tours. Just call us to discuss your needs.

View all our properties in Sicily »

Sicily favourites some of our clients’ favourites

A natural kingdom

No trip to Sicily would be complete without a visit to Mt Etna, the (still) active volcano that has helped shape both the island and its economy. If possible, stop to admire the Hundred Horse Chestnut, which is the largest Chestnut tree in the world and has its own local legends. (There's also an adventure park on the slopes of the volcano, that is an enjoyable and active day out – for kids and adults alike).

Deforestation was and is a major issue on the island, so the nature reserves that have been created over the last century are increasingly important, both to the biodiversity and agriculture of the island. Zingaro is one of the biggest, but there are reserves dotted all over the island. We have properties in several of them (such as Villa delle Saline and Casa Lucrezia in this newsletter).

For marine lovers there are many, many miles of coastline to explore, islands to discover (eg take a boat trip round the Egadi islands), and for those who like their sea views more sedate, there are the beautiful white sands of San Vito lo Capo, and hundreds more.

We’re always happy to advise clients on more active holidays, or places to stay that are greener – literally and ethically.

View all our properties in Sicily »

Competition
Essential Italy – best of 2011 in pictures

We love Italy (you may have noticed). We like to share the pictures we take while 'researching' villas and new places to go on our Facebook page.

We like to see what you've been up to on your Italian holiday, too. And to make it a little more piccante we're going to turn it into a competition. Share some of your Essential Italy moments from 2011 (ie anything you feel sums up the essence of Italy), and if other people like it too, we'll offer the following prizes:

* 1st prize of a 12 bottle crate of our selection of hand-picked Italian wines or a 5% discount voucher redeemable against a 2012 booking.

* 2nd prize of a 6 bottle selection of Italian wines.

To take part, send us ONE photo that you have taken that you think best sums up your 'Essential Italy 2011' to photocomp@essentialitaly.co.uk, together with a caption or description and your Facebook username (if you want to increase your chances in the public vote). The most popular photos (the most 'liked') will win the prizes.

A full set of instructions, plus terms and conditions is available here.