Sicily offers more natural adventures than just Tommy-gun capers, such as Mount Etna, which at nearly 11,000 feet above sea level, is recognized by scientists as Europe’s highest volcano, still active after its last major lava spewin 2009.
However deadly Etna’s output has been after 35,000 years of existence, folks can toast the volcano for a highly-desired byproduct, as in the grapes that have benefited from the rich ash deposits and stomped to produce some of the finest wines in the world. You’ll find more wineries elsewhere in Sicily at places like Palermo, Siracusa and Noto. Many of them offer tours of their establishments and even tasting sessions, adding to the island’s reputation as a go-to spot for wine.
Besides vineyards, Sicily is also a dream destination for those with a thirst for ancient culture, exemplified by the Piazza Armerina, an old Roman villa run by a powerful family dynasty dating back to the fourth century. Giant murals capturing lifestyles of its occupants during that time as well as the architecture of unique columns, statues and other monuments still stand, showing only a bit of erosion over the years.
Finally, a dream vacation wouldn’t be complete without visiting sites that have made Sicily a vital footnote in pop culture.
Tours designed to explore origins of the mafia take visitors to such towns as Corleone (the namesake of the family portrayed in The Godfather) and Salemi, home to a museum dedicated to capturing the history of the notorious local Mafia.
