Five must-do experiences on a luxury honeymoon in Sicily

Heat things up with a jeep tour of Europe’s highest active volcano: Mount Etna

Set amongst the vineyard-rich slopes of Mount Etna, the 19th-century Sicilian villa, Monaci delle Terre Nere will be your hideaway from which to explore Sicily’s east coast. Rise early the following morning to meet your private guide and speed off on a breathtaking jeep tour of Europe’s highest active volcano. At 3,329 metres high, you’ll whizz around the slopes and take in Etna’s ever-changing lunar landscapes from the comfort of your luxurious 4×4. Dart between lava caves, solidified magma rivers and otherworldly fauna, before getting out to enjoy a walk around the crater accompanied by an alpine guide. If this doesn’t get your blood pumping, we’re not sure what will.

Read more: After navigating Etna’s slopes, wind your way through Monaci’s vineyards with an expert sommelier.

Snorkel around Italy’s UNESCO-listed Aeolian islands

Smouldering volcanoes, black sand beaches and glowing green grottos; the idyllic Aeolian Islands have beguiled geologists from around the world for thousands of years. Lying just north of Sicily, the volcanic archipelago was named after Aeolus, the Greek God of the Winds, and for years we’ve explored the seven UNESCO-listed islands to share with you our favourite honeymoon spot; Panarea Island. The smallest of the Aeolian Islands, in Panarea you’ll venture off for an afternoon of snorkelling amongst some of Italy’s clearest, and undiscovered water. Explore the underwater treasures of Calajunco Cove, swimming past vibrant coral and identifying passing wildlife, with an expert guide. 

Read more: Ride into the sunset via Vespa and discover Salina; the most laid back of the Aeolian Islands.

Escape the crowds and flop on Italy’s secret island, Pantelleria

Correct us if we’re wrong, but getting some alone time on your first voyage as a married couple is number one priority. So, to get just that, we’ll fly you south of Sicily towards Tunisia to the secluded island of Pantelleria, translating to ‘Daughter of the Winds’ in Arabic. High on the hills and off the beaten tourist track, the luxurious suites at Sikelia Hotel welcome you through bold brass doors, into a world of sheltered paradise. The project of former basketball player turned luxury hotelier, Giulia Pazienza, expect bronze, silver and gold furnishings, sun-soaked terraces and luxurious Frette linen. In the morning, we’ll arrange for the hotel’s private boat to whisk you off for a spin along the craggy coast, where you’ll be served a delicious meal accompanied by Sicily’s finest wines on board.

Read more: Tuck into a picnic put together by Skikelia’s chef and toast to the panoramic views of Tunisia.

Enjoy a romantic candlelit dinner amidst millennia-old temples

Located on the south coast of Sicily, just a few miles from Agrigento city, La Terrazza degli Dei serves up the best views of the ancient Temple of Concordia (and the Michelin-star food isn’t bad either). Built-in c 440-430 BC, the ancient temple and its preserved columns come to life in the evening when the crepidoma becomes beautifully lit; so tonight you’ll indulge in a romantic dinner under the stars to admire this masterpiece in all its glory. Surrounded by almond and olive trees, La Terrazza degli Dei restaurant cooks up an array of gastronomic flavours and traditional Sicilian dishes; from grilled cuttlefish with salmoriglio sauce and succulent two-step lamb to Sicilian Cannolo and pistachio parfait.

Read more: Post-candlelit dinner, wander through the Garden of Kolymbetra with a personal butler at the ready.

Sip champagne from your private jacuzzi at the Belmond in Taormina

One of the best hotels in Sicily, Belmond Grand Hotel Timeo in Taormina offers unimaginable views over the rugged rocks, Taormina Bay and of course, mighty Mount Etna. Whilst Etna smokes away on the horizon, spend the evening cosied up in the hot tub of your Presidential Villa with a bottle of bubbly on ice. Sprinkled with rich Italian style decor and a grand terrace intertwined with blooming pink flowers, there’s absolutely zero reason to leave your fairytale palace.

Read more: After soaking in the jacuzzi, tour two nearby towns that featured in the forever iconic film; The Godfather.