Live the high life at Villa Timeo, Sicily welcomes a New Belmond Hotel

A spectacular new luxury boutique hotel opening, is a hotel of of historical significance, re imagined and designed by Laura Gonzalez. Carved into the hilltop alongside the ancient Greek amphitheatre, this classical residence became Taormina’s first hotel in 1873.​ Located just a few steps away from Grand Hotel Timeo’s main building for the ultimate privacy, you and your guests will still enjoy access to all of the hotel’s amenities. It looks from something straight out of a Wes Anderson movie, the aesthetics are to die for.

Having just re opened In June this year, this exclusive 21-room noble residence overlooking the Mediterranean, the ancient Greek amphitheatre and, on clear days, Mount Etna. Designed by the legendary French interior designer Laura Gonzalez "masterfully reimagined each entirely unique room and suite, blending South Italian stone flooring, antique furniture and classical Italian marble with striking mid-century design classics".

The Spa at Villa Timeo is by the Haute-Couture fashion house Dior. Here you will find Haute-Couture facials, or curated half-day Wellness Villeggiaturas designed to capture the essence of Dior's timeless allure. With Dior products everywhere from cushions to scents, "echoing the enduring bond between Dior and Italy, the spa is shaped by the landscapes, colours and cultural heritage that long inspired Monsieur Dior". Daily sunrise yoga sessions on the poolside lounge invite a slower pace of life. The intimate private infinity pool, surrounded by Mediterranean light, becomes your personal sanctuary for contemplation and rejuvenation.

Dining is equally memorable, Sicilian cuisine is at the centre of this trip. You can expect fresh fish, locally grown citrus fruits, handmade pasta and exceptional regional wines. Whether you are exploring the restaurants in Taormina or enjoying a romantic beachfront barbecue, Grand Hotel Timeo is at the forefront of Sicilian gastronomy. You can indulge in an afternoon tea beside the sea, or have the chef create a dream picnic to enjoy volcano-side.

For travellers seeking romance, luxury, culture and breath taking views in equal measure, Villa Timeo remains one of Italy's finest luxury escapes. It is simply more than a hotel, you will experience an Italian adventure. The concierge team at Villa Timeo are incredible and they can create a "True Italian adventure" from culinary masterclass to awe inspiring sights. They can organise a "spectacular helicopter tour, enjoying a bird’s-eye view of smoking volcanoes, idyllic islands and captivating sites of interest. Fly above Mount Etna, the largest volcano in Europe, before heading to Stromboli and Vulcano." Or maybe taking in a show at the ancient Greek theatre, adjacent to Grand Hotel Timeo. This wonderfully preserved amphitheatre, with Mount Etna as its backdrop, is every bit as captivating as the performances staged there.

Villa Timeo is also perfectly positioned for discovering Sicily's cultural treasures. A leisurely stroll leads into Taormina's elegant Piazza's, boutique lined streets and lively cafes, while excursions to Mount Etna, the picturesque fishing village of Giardini Naxos and the dramatic Alcantara Gorges are all within easy reach. The hotel blends old world charm with contemporary luxury, it's perfectly catered for honeymooners and families alike effortlessly, with views like a living postcard it's easy to see why many guests find themselves reluctant to leave the hotel and why so many return each year.

For bookings and enquiries please visit Belmond Booking Engine