Hotel Monte Tauro

Hotel Monte Tauro details

With a smart pool scene and views that encompass Mount Etna, this place makes for the perfect Italian getaway.

Built into a green hillside that nosedives into the Ionian, the Hotel Monte Tauro is in quite a spot. And its large swimming pool really makes the most of the setting. It juts out over the sea below and offers up panoramic views of the Gulf of Naxos and Mount Etna. The bedrooms, meanwhile, are staggered into the rockface above, which means each one comes with a guaranteed sea view.

Speaking of the rooms, they’ve recently been refurbished so the set-up is modern and stylish. Inside, polished wood floors and over-sized headboards take centre-stage. And mod-cons like air-conditioning and satellite TVs provide the finishing touches. Out on the balcony, meanwhile, you’ll find comfy reclining chairs so you can enjoy the views in comfort.

Elsewhere, there’s the restaurant. Set on the top floor of the hotel and with huge windows, it’s another spot that’s been designed to take full advantage of the surroundings.

When you fancy eating out, head uphill to Taormina’s lively centre. Restaurants and bars are just a couple of minutes’ walk away. The beach is a bit further, but there’s a shuttle bus that’ll get you there inside ten minutes.