ISOLA BELLA
The natural jewel of Taormina
Just below Taormina Old Town, you’ll find one of the most iconic spots in Sicily: Isola Bella, a small rocky island connected to the mainland by a narrow strip of sand that emerges at low tide.
One of the most famous and most photographed attractions in Sicily, Isola Bella is a must-see for anyone visiting Taormina. Lapped on all sides by crystal-clear turquoise waters, this small rocky island is a true natural gem that lies within a protected nature reserve. The beach, made up of white pebbles smoothed by the sea, is one of the most beautiful in Eastern Sicily. Part of the beach is public, but there are also serviced areas equipped with parasols, sun loungers and food and drink facilities.
The maritime symbol of Taormina, Isola Bella is perfect for relaxing and tuning into the beautiful natural landscape.
Isola Bella Nature Reserve
The island has been a designated Nature Reserve since 1998. It is managed by the Catania University Centre for the Management and Protection of Natural Environments (CUTGANA), which seeks to protect its biodiversity and fragile ecosystem. The area is home to a wealth of Mediterranean plant species, sea caves and marine life, and is ideal for activities such as snorkelling and kayaking. Along the guided trails on the island, you can admire:
- Panoramic terraces
- The remains of a 19th-century villa
- Botanical areas with native plant species
There are a number of ways to reach Isola Bella:
- On foot: from the Mazzarò area, down a flight of steps (Via Nazionale)
- By cableway: from Taormina Old Town to Mazzarò in just a few minutes
- By car: park at the Mazzarò car park and continue on foot
- By boat: boat trips and tours depart from Giardini Naxos, from the bays of Isola Bella or Mazzarò
- From the town centre:you can reach the ‘Belvedere’ by walking down a scenic flight of steps (Via Bongiovanni, about 30 minutes)
The history of Isola Bella
Isola Bella was gifted to the municipality of Taormina by Ferdinand I of Bourbon in 1806. In 1890, it was purchased by the English noblewoman Florence Trevelyan, who built a residence there set within a small botanical garden, parts of which can be visited today.
In 1990, it was officially designated a protected site, for its natural and landscape significance. To this day, it remains a perfect example of how humankind and nature live in harmony in Sicily.
There is an admission fee to visit Isola Bella; entry can be purchased from the Aditus Culture website. Aditus Culture.
