Vibe
Terraced Mediterranean gardens, ancient citrus trees, and classical architecture create a peaceful hideaway high above the Ionian Sea.
“Restored English villa folly”
A 1908 villa designed by Charles Robert Ashbee, blending English Arts and Crafts with Sicilian stone.
Period architectural details, classical ceiling moldings, and whitewashed walls styled with Italian antiques and designer furnishings.
Leading Hotels of the World member; boutique hotel with 24 suites and 2 Michelin-star dining.
In Taormina along Viale San Pancrazio, a short stroll from Corso Umberto and the Ancient Greek Theatre.
Rooms
Whitewashed walls and classical ceiling moldings frame antique Italian furnishings, with select rooms opening onto private sea-facing terraces.
Wellness
An outdoor infinity pool sits cut into terraced botanical gardens, offering sweeping views across the water to the horizon.
Backstory
Built in 1908 for an English colonel, the original architectural sketches of the villa are preserved in London's Victoria and Albert Museum.
Eat & drink
Two-Michelin-starred St. George serves Sicilian cuisine on a garden terrace, while breakfast unfolds on the panoramic Roof Terrace.
The neighborhood
The pedestrian bustle of Corso Umberto and the Ancient Greek Theatre are both just a short stroll from the gates.
More like this
San Domenico Palace, Taormina, A Four Seasons Hotel
“Monastic cliffside citadel”
Central
Villa Conrad Taormina
“Grand Tour townhouse”
Central
The app
This is one hotel. The app has every one we rate, in your pocket, for the whole trip.
Our shorthand
What makes a hotel special, how well they pull it off, and what it feels like outside the door.
How well they pull it off
Extremely rare. Sets the global standard.
Brilliant execution. And we’re picky.
They did this well. You’ll notice.
A defining trait. Makes the hotel what it is.
The eight vibes
Architecture and interiors lead. There’s a creative vision at work.
The guest is conspicuously well cared for. Requests met before they’re made.
Rooted in place. Local character runs through the whole stay.
Energy and scene. Where the city goes out, whether or not it’s sleeping here.
A building with history. The story of the place is part of the stay.
Built around feeling better. Rest, sweat, soak, spa.
A hotel the city grew up with. Same rituals, same regulars.
A world of its own. No reason to leave the property.
Scene — what’s outside the door
Where things happen: restaurants, shops, people.
Well-located: walkable to some things, a short ride to more.
Away from the crowds. Getting around takes intention.
A place apart: the property is the destination.