The History of Isola Bella in Taormina

Isola Bella in Taormina, also known as the “Pearl of the Mediterranean,” is a small island with extraordinary charm. It connects to the mainland via a narrow strip of sand that makes it accessible on foot during low tide, while during high tide it becomes a true island. Over the centuries, the island has had various owners and has been used for different purposes, including the construction of a noble villa. In the 19th century, British nobility took great interest in the island. Baron Francesco Lanza di Scalea purchased it and built a villa that remains well preserved to this day. Its spectacular location and lush vegetation also attracted many artists and writers, including the German poet Goethe, who described it as an irresistibly charming place.

Today, the island is protected as a nature reserve and is part of a marine protected area, safeguarding its unique flora and fauna. Although it was closed to the public for several years, it is now open for visits, allowing everyone to enjoy its natural beauty.

How to Reach Isola Bella

One of the things that makes Isola Bella in Taormina so unique is its easy accessibility. It is just a short distance from the center of Taormina and can be easily reached via a cable car departing from Mazzarò, a district of Taormina. Alternatively, if you prefer walking, you can take the road that descends to the sea, enjoying splendid panoramic views of the Sicilian coast and Mount Etna. You can also access the island by walking along the sandbar that connects it to the mainland, but this path is available only at low tide.

What to See on Isola Bella

Once you arrive on the island, you will find yourself immersed in a natural landscape of extraordinary beauty. The vegetation is lush, with typical Mediterranean plants such as palms, bougainvillea, maritime pines, and cacti, creating an exotic and enchanting atmosphere. The island also hosts some rare and endemic plants, highlighting its ecological significance.

At the center of the island is Villa Belvedere, a building constructed in the 19th century by Baron Lanza di Scalea. Today, the villa is open to visitors and offers a panoramic view that stretches over the sea and the coast. Strolling through the surrounding gardens, you can admire not only an extraordinary variety of exotic plants but also the view of the Gulf of Naxos and Taormina, which will leave you speechless.

The island is also famous for its crystal-clear beaches, with fine sand and transparent waters perfect for a relaxing day. You can swim, snorkel, or simply lie in the sun, enjoying the panorama and tranquility of the place. If you’re lucky enough to visit on a quiet day, you’ll experience a sense of intimacy that makes this place even more special.

What to See on Isola Bella in Taormina

Once you arrive on the island, you will find yourself immersed in a natural landscape of extraordinary beauty. The vegetation is lush, with typical Mediterranean plants such as palms, bougainvillea, maritime pines, and cacti, creating an exotic and enchanting atmosphere. The island also hosts some rare and endemic plants, highlighting its ecological significance.

At the center of the island is Villa Belvedere, a building constructed in the 19th century by Baron Lanza di Scalea. Today, the villa is open to visitors and offers a panoramic view that stretches over the sea and the coast. Strolling through the surrounding gardens, you can admire not only an extraordinary variety of exotic plants but also the view of the Gulf of Naxos and Taormina, which will leave you speechless.

The island is also famous for its crystal-clear beaches, with fine sand and transparent waters perfect for a relaxing day. You can swim, snorkel, or simply lie in the sun, enjoying the panorama and tranquility of the place. If you’re lucky enough to visit on a quiet day, you’ll experience a sense of intimacy that makes this place even more special.