Calanica Resort

Overview

Sea fan? You'll be counting your lucky starfish that you picked this place, then. It's set right into the Mediterranean cliffside like some sort of fairytale, overlooking the water with steps leading down to the rocky edge and sundecks so you can really soak up the views. Aperol Spritz optional, but recommended. There's even a small pool to dip into, a pizza menu to drool over (you can go for a classic margs, or a sweet base topped with Nutella, cream and chopped hazelnuts), and mini day cruises running to the Aeolian Islands, if you fancy getting out and about.

Location

• There might not be a sandy beach, but the rocky coast is right on your doorstep, with a wooden sundeck kitted out with loungers and parasols for the perfect tanning spot

• Catania Fontanarossa Airport is just under 2 hours away, by car

• Palermo Airport is a 1-hour and 15-minute drive away

Rooms

• The hotel offers small and cosy individual straw-topped Bungalows, including Deluxe and Junior Suite options, each connected straight to the sea via a series of walkways

• Bungalows are decked out with:

  • Air con

  • TV

  • Kitchenette

  • Direct dial telephone

  • Private balcony

Food & Drink

• Main restaurant - the menu here is packed with Sicilian classics, from crowd-pleasing drinks (wine, cocktails and mocktails), as well as fresh pizzas, salads, paninis and desserts to die for (gelato, gelato and more gelato). There's an outdoor terrace so you can dine al fresco, right by the water

• Beach kiosk - so you never have to wander too far from your lounger to get a top-up on your juice or Spritz

• Main bar - your one-stop shop for cocktails, soft drinks, and maybe a cheeky Caffé Freddo

Sports & Entertainment

• Outdoor pool - it might be on the small side, but it's just enough for a refreshing dunk or some poolside lounging

• Beachfront deck - topped with sun loungers and parasols, this terrace has all the perks of being close to the water, without the sand getting all up in your business

• Tennis court and football field - in case you fancy a kick-about, or you're into making a racquet

• Cars, bikes, scooters, pedal boats and canoes to rent - head into the local area to rent one of these bad boys and explore Sicily in a way that works for you. Walking's overrated.

• Diving - hit the coast and take a deep-dive with some diving classes, perfect for sea-lovers

• Daily cruises to the Aeolian Islands - if you fancy an island-hop but don't want to stay overnight, these daily cruises are ideal for seeing the best of the islands in a single day