Carved into the rocky hills of Sicily’s East coast, nestled between uninhibited views of the Mount Etna volcano, Naxos Bay and the ancient Greek Theatre, Grand Hotel Timeo was the first hotel to open in Taormina in 1873. Over its 150-year history, the hotel has been an artist’s paradise, famed for its Literary Terrace, where in 1920 DH Lawrence was inspired to write his masterpiece Lady Chatterley’s Lover. Having attended the celebrated Taormina Film Festival, many of Hollywood’s elite, could be found rejoicing in La Dolce Vita on this lavish terrace – among them Cary Grant, Elizabeth Taylor and Audrey Hepburn. Home to one of the greatest views in the world, guests can enjoy a variety of culinary experiences curated by Chef Roberto Toro, from local authentic cuisine at Ristorante Timeo, to Michelin-starred dining at intimate Otto Geleng restaurant. The hotel boasts 46 rooms and 24 suites, most with terraces or balconies with views over the coastline, all surrounded by six-acres of lush gardens and a panoramic pool, with an adjoining pool grill restaurant. Guests have access to a private beach club at Villa Sant’Andrea, A Belmond Hotel, Taormina Mare, via a complimentary shuttle that runs to the secluded Bay of Mazzaro.