Hotel Villa Belvedere has all the charms of a traditional Sicilian private villa with its terracotta floors and parlour rooms. Run by the Bambara-Pécaut family since 1902, Belvedere occupies a 19th century villa, nestled on the cliffs overlooking the Bay of Naxos and Mount Etna.
Right next door to the stunning botanic gardens ‘Garden of Villa Comunale’ and only a short walk to the town centre, made it the perfect launchpad for our three nights in Taormina. Our seaside room was set for three which made it a little tight but comfortable. We could peer out to the ocean and look down upon the sprawling gardens and azure pool from the Juliet style balcony. By day, we soaked up the sun poolside so a simple room was all we needed for afternoon snoozing (and digesting).
We booked direct (€455 per night) and scored a complimentary lunch which we enjoyed on the first day. Whilst third party booking sites can lure you in with cheaper prices, try to book direct as hotels will generally price match and dangle a bonus or two.
Staff were uber friendly and the vibe was chilled and approachable. If we had more time, I would have curled up with a book in the lounge areas every afternoon after pool-time. I loved waking up with the sun, watching the seaside slowly rouse and leisurely walk downstairs to breakfast. There’s nothing like that morning reminder... yesssss, I’m on holiday. The buffet breakfast was overflowing with sweet and savoury options and hit the spot.
Thinking of a few nights in Taormina? Highly recommend staying here whilst you tackle the town and all the eats on offer. Check out my travel guide hit-list here.
