The town is built on a narrow plateau between the Ionian Sea and Mt Etna and it's all view: look up and there's Europe's most active volcano, look down and there's the voluptuous curve of the bay. There's a flowery fragrance on the breeze, sunsets and sunrises of outstanding beauty and the melancholy ruins of Roman and Greek civilisations. The Villa Ducale sits high up on a hill with Mt Etna dominating the skyline.

Once the home of a Sicilian aristocrat, it's now a small hotel. Each room is decorated in Sicilian style.

What's the best thing?

Probably the view, which takes in an 80km sweep from the blue bay to the snow-covered mountain.

Will it break the bank?

Prices range from 130 for a double room to 250 for a deluxe suite. Rates include the spectacular breakfast.

Nearest airport?

Catania, about an hour's drive away.

Want to know more?

Hotel Villa Ducale, Taormina, Sicily, Italy (0039 094228153, www. taorminahotels. villaducale. com)