Summers in Sicily

Travel

Aug 30

Every summer we spend some time with my husband’s family in Sicily, but this summer was a little different.

Sicily is having a real moment, thanks in part to the backdrop of Taormina where Season 2 of White Lotus was filmed last year. But the increased amount of tourists to the area wasn’t the only disruption for travelers. Mount Etna has experienced multiple eruptions over the last few months. Despite having a flight canceled due to the eruptions and fires, we persevered and used it as an opportunity to do some Italian countryside road tripping, which I’ll talk about in my next blog.

This year, we spent time in the Val di Noto region in southeastern Sicily. The eight towns that make up Val di Noto were collectively designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2002 thanks to its phenomenal architecture which showcases the artistic and cultural achievements of the late 17th and early 18th centuries. The majority of this architecture is Baroque, and the reason for its consistency across the region is that in 1693 a devastating earthquake essentially leveled the towns of Noto, Ragusa, Modica, Scicli, and Catania. In the aftermath, the area was rebuilt in the Baroque style.

As a regular visitor to the region, here are three things I want you to know about Val di Noto:

Be there for the Baroque

The Baroque architecture is not to be missed, and it really cannot be missed, it’s so pervasive. But make sure you stop and take the time to appreciate and admire the buildings, the plazas, the chapels, all of it. Baroque style features ornate facades, grand staircases, and intricately carved details in obvious and more subtle places. A leisurely visual evaluation of just about any structure will reveal something special. Noto, the most well-known town in the region, is a great place to start for architectural landmarks, with its Cathedral of San Nicolo, Palazzo Ducezio, and the Church of Santa Chiara.

Savor All the Flavors

Noto is home to Pistachio gelato, so don’t leave without trying some. It also happens to be home to several Michelin starred restaurants, so start your day with some pistachio granita, end it with a gourmet chef’s tasting menu and in the middle be sure not to miss the fabulous sidewalk cafes. Don’t worry - you’ll be doing lots of walking to make up for all the indulgences.

In addition to having amazing food, so many of these spots also boast inspiring interior and exterior design. Even if you eat outside, make sure to pop your head into each place to get a feel for the variety and eclectic nature of the Italian aesthetic.

Be a Part of the Backdrop

While Noto is now famous for being the backdrop to several scenes in White Lotus Season 2, the town of Scicli is a much more famous backdrop to the wildly popular Italian show, Inspector Montalbano. This show is based on detective novels by Andrea Camilleri, and has been airing since 1999. Even Italians are charmed by the Sicilian backdrop of the show, and the way the stunning architecture, seascapes and rolling hills play into each mystery.

While I’ve been visiting this region for 20 years, I’ve learned that there’s always something new to see and experience. Before each trip I like to gather inspiration from Italy Segreta and the Yolo Journal. They always give me insight into new ways to enjoy and explore the island of Sicily (and all of Italy) and inspire me with beautiful photography and stories.