Grand Hotel Timeo, A Belmond Hotel, Taormina
Offering some of the best views in all Italy, Belmond Grand Hotel Timeo delivers old-world glamour in an enviable location in picturesque Taormina, next to the entrance to the ancient Greek theatre, with views from its terraces of Sicily’s puckered coastline and ever-active Mount Etna.
The original main building dates to 1873 and has played host to some of Europe’s finest artists, writers and aristocrats, including Oscar Wilde and DH Lawrence, who is said to have written Lady Chatterley’s Lover here. Rooms here all have sea and volcano views plus private terraces or balconies, and feature high ceilings, a mix of antiques and polished parquet floors. Other, more modern rooms and suites can be found in the adjacent Villa Flora.
Though the atmosphere is relaxed, service is always charming and courteous, with an impeccably liveried staff catering to your every need, whether you’re relaxing around the hotel pool, dining alfresco on the terrace at Ristorante Timeo or enjoying Michelin-starred menus at Otto Geleng.
In addition to spa treatments and complimentary boat excursions during the summer, guests can take advantage of the free shuttle service to sister property Belmond Villa Sant’Andrea, whose private beach, sun loungers and other facilities are available to Timeo guests free of charge.