Mazzarò Sea Palace – Sea of Dreams
If you watched season two of the hit HBO show, White Lotus, you were no doubt seduced by the atmospheric Sicilian scenery and enamored with the idea of visiting Taormina, where the majority of scenes were shot. But where to stay in a place that has no shortage of hotels?
Look no further than Mazzarò Sea Palace, a Leading Hotel of the World. Tucked into a cove fronting the blissful Taormina Bay, this five-star resort offers everything anyone would want in a Mediterranean holiday: sea views from every room; a sun-kissed pool; spa; plus two restaurants and a bar on a pristine private beach. The location is ideal. Just steps from the hotel, guests can take a cable car to the town center or the ancient Greek theater immortalized by Goethe in his famous poem, Italian Journey: “Never has a theater audience had such a show before them.”
A short walk or boat ride away is Isola Bella. Known as “the pearl of the Ionian Sea,” this rocky islet is a designated nature reserve. The surrounding crystal-clear waters form a protected marine park and make it an ideal spot for snorkeling. Nearby, boats offer trips to the Grotta Azzurra, so called because during morning hours, this sea cave turns a brilliant blue thanks to the effect of sunlight reflecting off the sapphire-hued sea. Further afield are panoramic hikes on Mount Etna and wine tastings at local vineyards to sample the vino produced by the region’s touted volcanic soil.
But enough sightseeing. Let’s get back to the hotel. There’s a reason – actually multiple reasons – why Mazzarò Sea Palace was voted #1of 86 hotels in Taormina on Trip Advisor. “The perfect resort in Taormina! We recently had the pleasure of staying at the Mazzarò Sea Palace and it was an unforgettable experience,” gushes a recent reviewer. “We had another resort booked at that time but due to a recent TV show that resulted in an exorbitant nightly rate, we decided to book the Sea Palace and could not possibly have been happier.” “We are ‘Ritz-Carlton people,’” says another “and the Mazzarò ambience and service were equal if not better!” “Simply simpatico,” exults a guest who first visited the hotel half a century ago.
“Fabulous views, ultra-modern decor, beautiful beach, and sumptuous meals were still vividly memorable after 48 years. The staff bent over backwards to accommodate our family.” “Beyond fabulous!” declares another satisfied customer. “The moment we arrived, we were greeted by the warm and welcoming staff. The check-in process was smooth and efficient, and we were quickly escorted to our room which was a perfect blend of elegance and comfort,” says a recent guest. “The decor was sophisticated, with a modern touch that complemented the classic charm of the hotel. Our room featured a private balcony which provided a spectacular view of the cove.” “Magical experience at Mazzarò Sea Palace,” raves another. “Every aspect was perfect. This place is truly a hidden gem.”
Apart from those accolades what also sets the Sea Palace apart is the service. “Every member of staff went above and beyond to ensure my stay was perfect,” reveals a happy visitor. “The hospitality was unique, not even seen at the best hotels in the world,” according to another guest. “We traveled with a baby, and they embroidered bed linen and left little gifts in the room. Nothing was impossible.” Tellingly, staff members are often name-checked: “Trip of a lifetime! The staff, Francesco, Fredrico, Vanessa, Enrique, Ciccauo, Katarina, Joe, Franco and Giovanni from the Beach staff – all so welcoming and friendly. The hotel itself is immaculate, the service impeccable, all staff is always smiling with sincerity.” Well, what more can anyone ask for in a Sicilian – or any – escape? At Mazzarò Sea Palace, come for the beauty, but stay for the warmth.
