the Saracen coast
Discovering a wild and uncontaminated nature
“Amid beaches featuring volcanic rock formations, dramatic cliffs,
caves, secluded coves, and picturesque bays”
The Saracen Coast is perhaps one of the most scenic stretches of Sicily’s Tyrrhenian coastline, located in the province of Messina. It also includes the municipalities of Naso, Ficarra, Brolo, Sant’Angelo di Brolo, Piraino, Gioiosa Marea, and Patti.
Its greatest attraction is the breathtaking view of the Aeolian Islands, which unfold before visitors in all their rare and captivating beauty.
This is a destination filled with countless places to explore and remarkable sights to admire, from Neolithic caves to the rocky inlet known as Arcile Bay, and much more.
This almost unknown Sicily, quiet and at times wild, offers its guests enchanting corners, clear and warm waters, breathtaking views, terraces overlooking the sea and a surprising hinterland. In this land there are also all the signs of an ancient and tormented history: Greek theaters and Roman villas, Norman castles and Spanish towers, Arab neighborhoods and churches of various eras.
Here you can breathe the true soul of this fabulous land.
Tindari
Among legend, art, history, culture, incredible landscapes and natural beauty
“Not many people know about Tindari, a real gem where reality and legend are perfectly blended.”
Tindari was founded in 396 a.c. by Dionysius of Syracuse during the war against Carthage, as a colony of mercenaries. It owes its name to Tindarus, king of Sparta. Since then its history has been a succession of stories, myths and legends that have left an indelible mark in the popular imagination.
Remains of the ancient city of Tindari are relatively well preserved; in fact, the following are evident: the checkerboard urban layout typical of Roman cities, the Roman buildings and the mighty city walls. But what particularly amazes visitors is its Greek Theater, which dates back to the late 4th century. It represents a true wonder of acoustic engineering and hosts all kinds of festivals. Tindari’s main attraction, however, remains the sanctuary of the Black Madonna, about which there is an intriguing legend.
As for its natural heritage, the area is home to a stretch of sea of exceptional beauty, now protected as a nature reserve thanks to its unique brackish lagoon ecosystem with marine sand formations. Every day, visitors come here to admire the famous Marinello Beach, which is also the subject of a local legend.According to the legend, the sandy spit was formed after a young girl fell from the cliff below the sanctuary and was miraculously found unharmed.
The Cave of Donna Villa, visible in the rocky cliff overlooking the coast, is also linked to an ancient legend. It is said that the holes inside the cave were left by the furious fingers of a witch who preyed on sailors whenever she was unable to satisfy her insatiable and sinister hunger.
Milazzo
A small peninsula surrounded by the sea
“A jewel hidden between the blue sea and a rocky cliff with breathtaking colors.“
Among its streets and buildings, Milazzo preserves signs of the civilizations that have shaped it over time. The city has been known for a long time, more precisely since the 8th century B.C., when the ancient Greeks founded the colony of Mylai. Thanks to different populations that populated this enchanting place, today it gives its visitors historical remains that make anyone go back in time. The main historical attraction of Milazzo is the fortress, one of the first Norman buildings in Sicily. The heart of the city is the Norman Castle, compared to the Tower of London. Other attractions follow: the city cathedral, the remains of Palazzo Giurati, the churches of Madonna del Rosario and Giacomo Apostolo and the church of San Francesco di Paola.
As for its natural beauty, Milazzo offers breathtaking landscapes. Picturesque beaches that stretch along the entire peninsula, the enchanting isthmus, which stretches like a finger to indicate the nearby Aeolian archipelago. . From the panoramic terrace of Capo Milazzo, you can immerse yourself in the island’s nature. Here you can immerse yourself in the Pool of Venus, a stunning place. Exploration of its coastline full of inlets and hidden bays offer fairy-tale views, which also extend deep into the waters, full of life and spectacular backdrops. Capo di Milazzo also offers spectacular views of the surrounding countryside, the lighthouse, the Baia del Tono and the Etna volcano.
Milazzo is the springboard to the Lipari Islands!
Porto Rosa
Here, waters are honored with Blue Flag recognition
“The largest Sicilian marina, and among the most exclusive in the Mediterranean.“
Portorosa was born for entrepreneurial initiative in the 1980’s. Today it is an exclusive point for the most sophisticated customers. It is a tourist complex with villas, apartments, residences and hotels, where you can find all the comfort. The name Rosa was given in honor of the engineer’s wife. Despite its port nature, the waters of this destination are crystal clear, with a magnificent backdrop. In 1993 Portorosa had already been “Blue Flag”, a recognition of great prestige. This complex is fully surrounded by greenery, ensuring tourists relaxation and privacy.
Capo D'Orlando
A picturesque agricultural, fishing and seaside town.
“Here the sea is the fantastic setting of a magical village ”
Capo D’Orlando is a small village located in the province of Messina between Capo Calavà and Cefalù. It stands on a rocky promontory bathed by the crystal clear waters of the Tyrrhenian Sea overlooking the Aeolian archipelago.
Legend tells that this place was originally called “Agatirno,” which comes from the name of its founder Agatirso, son of Aeolus, king of the winds. Agatirno was born in 1183 B.C. as a sacred city devoted to the God Dionysus. It was later named Capo d’Orlando because the famous paladin Orlando, headed to the Holy Land, stayed there for a short time. This city has always been seen as a fishing village, but with time it has grown to become one of the main tourist centers of Sicily.
One of the best-known beaches is San Gregorio, a very picturesque spot with crystal-clear waters. It is no coincidence that the famous song “Sapore di Sale” by Gino Paoli was born here.
In the marina area, one of the main attractions is certainly the Lighthouse, a 20th-century structure. On the hill stands Villa Piccolo and its park, a private residence that has now become a cultural centre and museum.
Another unmissable place is undoubtedly Bastione Castle, a building that will take you back to a distant era. Today, it is a multifunctional cultural centre hosting exhibitions, theatrical performances, and events of various kinds. Finally, there are the Roman Baths, dating back to the 3rd–4th century AD. . , They are a real gem for lovers of ancient history.
Piraino
Piraino is a place able to surprise, thanks to its strong contrasts
“A medieval village rich in legends and ancient traditions.“
Piraino is characterized by a very ancient history of myths and legends: the name of Piraino comes from the Cyclops Piracmone, who have built the first village around 827 BC..
The most characteristic area is undoubtedly the historic centre, a maze of narrow, sloping alleys that carefully preserves the features of a medieval village, where the influences of the peoples who once lived here can still be seen. It is perched on the top of a hill that drops dramatically down towards the sea.
Among the places surrounded by numerous popular legends, the Towers certainly deserve a mention, linked to stories of blood, love, and battles. The Ciaula Tower (also known as Ciavole Tower), in particular, offers breathtaking views of the Aeolian Islands and the coastline, as well as the beautiful panorama of the Church of the Rosary with its 18th-century bell tower.
From Piraino, every place offers enchanting emotions and stunning sea views. In particular, a small but fascinating spot from which to admire an endless horizon is the Guardiola viewpoint.
Brolo
A historic connection between village and castle
“Here, crossing the two gates of the historic center, you will go back in time through many centuries..”
Brolo is a small ancient village with a medieval castle overlooking the sea, which houses the Museum of Punishment and Torture. It was the residence of Princess Lancia, daughter of King Federico II. In front of the castle there is the”Scoglio del Pianto”, linked to the legend of the fishermen of Brolo. It is said that the princess Lancia sat at the castle window waiting for her lover, who sailed up to her with a small boat and climbed secretly over her long hair (a story similar to what we now know as Rapunzel). The prince, brother of the princess, learned of this incident and after the last night of love of the two decided out of jealousy of his sister to take revenge on the young man; he mortally wounded him and left him on the rock. This is why the rock is called the crying rock. It is said that even today the soul of the beautiful princess waiting for her lover lives around the rock and helps the fishermen.
