Swim, Sun, and Stay in the Lap of Luxury at This Exclusive Seaside Hotel in Taormina Mare

Many hotels have tried, but few have earned the prestigious reputation of Villa Sant'Andrea, A Belmond Hotel, Taormina Mare, a refined yet relaxed retreat on one of the prettiest coastal spots in Sicily. Distinguished by its style, service, and enviable perch, it’s one of only two properties with direct access to Mazzaro Bay (the other is Mazzarò Sea Palace).   

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BOOK WITH US FOR PERKS

• Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability
• Daily breakfast for up to two guests per bedroom, served in the restaurant (already included in property rates)
• $100 USD equivalent Food & Beverage credit to be utilized during stay (not combinable, not valid on room rate, no cash value if not redeemed in full)
• Early Check-In / Late Check-Out, subject to availability
• Complimentary Wi-Fi

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Villa Sant'Andrea was previously a summer residence for a British family who fell in love with the area’s scenic and cultural charms. In the 1950s, the crew transformed it into an exclusive seaside hotel. Today, the well-established holiday haven welcomes guests with the same hospitality you’d expect when visiting the home of your most fabulous hostess-with-the-mostest pal. When summer hits, it’s the perfect place to live out Aperol-fueled fantasies in a stylish, sun-dappled setting that’s a short cable car ride from the crowded center of Taormina.

From the mid-century style of the reception hall to chic beach club, spaces nod to an earlier era of Sicilian allure without forgetting about the charm of the present. Ease and elegance mingle in the well-tailored, light-flooded rooms and suites. Gossamer drapes flow onto the balconies that look out over the sea or lush sun-tropical gardens. Artwork punches up the personality. Plush king-sized beds beckon travelers after a long day of swimming or sightseeing. Staying in one of the ultra-swish Signature Suites comes with perks like round-trip transfers to/from Catania, dedicated host service, complimentary laundry service, and a gratis in-suite bar.

With 66 timeless accommodations, the iconic property retains a sense of privacy and intimacy that’s long attracted celebrities and European glitterati. While it feels boutique, the amenities, dining, and drinking options are more on par with a high-end resort. 

The highlight for summer sun worshipers is without question the private beach club, Lido Villeggiatura. Blue loungers and matching umbrellas dot the pebbled shores, with the crystalline bay calling steps away. Each setup comes with a woven tote stocked with pink San Benedetto cans of water and Evian spray. Guests can also book one of the exclusive cabanas. In case you need a quick refresh, changing rooms have showers, Acqua di Parma soaps, and aloe after-sun spray. 

During peak season, the Apreamare Gozzo 35 whisks well-to-do passengers to scenic points around Isola Bella and beyond. There’s also an infinity pool made of lava stones from Etna that overlooks Mazzarò Bay. The wellness area provides acupressure massages and glow-boosting facials. Treatments are also available in the sea-view gazebo. 

While most European hotels punt the whole gym thing. Villa Sant’Andrea’s fitness center is kitted out with state-of-the-art equipment and even has an outdoor patio with spin bikes and leafy views. Personal trainers are available on request. Other outdoor well-being offerings include paddle surfing sessions and sunrise yoga classes. 

The beloved Sicilian summer retreat boasts three restaurants. Ristorante Sant'Andrea is an all-day restaurant with a menu curated by Executive Chef Agostino D'Angelo. Open seasonally from June to September, the romantic, al-fresco fine-dining concept, Brizza, has just eight tables for two by the water’s edge (as you’d imagine, reservations book up quickly). For something a bit more casual but still impeccably executed, Brace Grill at Bar Sant'Andrea prepares tuna tartare, seafood skewers, and some of the best Neapolitan-style pizza outside of Naples. It’s also a lovely spot for a post-beach glass of Etna Bianco and some traditional salumeria di mare accompanied by the sounds of live jazz music. 

At Villa Sant'Andrea, the competition for where to enjoy a spritz during the day or a golden hour Negroni is stiff. In addition to Bar Sant'Andrea, the beach and pool bars are chic spots for drinks—ditto goes for a classic Sicilian granita or gelato. If you’re craving a cocktail in a cozy environment, Gwendoline's Bar celebrates the art of mixology in a plush, artsy setting. 

Fast Facts

Location: Taormina Mare, Sicily, Italy

Rating: Five-Star

The Vibe: Exclusive Sicilian seaside villa (that just so happens to host other well-dressed guests). 

Room Count: 66 rooms and suites

Starting Rate: Rooms start at $1,010/night

Dining: Ristorante Sant'Andrea serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Brace Grill at Bar Sant'Andrea, open from noon to midnight, offers fresh seafood, pizza, and seaside views. Brizza is the seasonal fine-dining restaurant. There are four bars: Bar Sant'Andrea, the beach bar at Lido Villeggiatura, the pool bar, and Gwendoline's Bar. 

Amenities: 3 restaurants; 4 bars; serviced beach club; fitness center; spa with garden gazebo; concierge; pool; private gozzo boat; complimentary electric boat tour (available during high season); complimentary electric shuttle to Grand Hotel Timeo, A Belmond Hotel, Taormina

Our Favorite Thing About the Hotel: An alfresco lunch of squid skewers, tomato salad, and margherita pizza paired with Sicilian wine on the sea-view terrace.

5 Nearby Attractions: Isola Bella; Taormina Cable Car; Teatro Antico di Taormina; Corso Umberto I; Villa Comunale di Taormina

Any Personal Neighborhood Recs? If you’re looking to grab an arancini, there are a few spots along the main road. For a sit-down meal at one of Taormina’s well-known restaurants, venture up to town. In the mood for bruschetta and pasta? Head to Osteria da Rita. For pizza, make a reservation at Villa Zuccaro Pizzeria Taormina.

Closest Airport: Vincenzo Bellini Catania Airport (CTA)

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