Marettimo: A Hidden Gem Off The Coast Of Sicily

Marettimo, off the coast of Sicily is a stunning island that is probably less familiar to most than Capri or Patelleria. Yet, the sea is no less blue, the beaches are no less beautiful and, in fact, they are both all the lovelier for the lack of tourist crowds, queues and gimmicks. It has become more well-known to the outside world in recent years but retains its unique charms and is still relatively unknown. For this reason, it really is the perfect place to sit back, relax and well and truly get away from it all. Just find yourself a luxury villa in Sicily and spend some time on this preserved and hidden gem.

Remarkably lush and green, it is a place that tends to attract cultured regulars who return year after year rather than confused crowds of day-trippers, moving around together in a gaggle. It is an Italian island paradise that attract walkers, scuba-divers and sun-seekers and is a place to indulge in hobbies that may never normally garner much time or attention or to merely lie out on a perfect beach with loved ones and a good drink in hand.

Marettimo, luckily, remains relatively unspoiled compared to other islands in the area and its wild western side is home to cool Aleppo pine groves and walking trails overlooking the sea views. It is here that you can spot wonderful and amazing creatures such as the rare Bonelli’s eagle, the European storm petrel, peregrine falcons, mouflons and any number of wild rabbits. If you are interested in incredible things made by human hands, you can visit the Norman castle perched on an isthmus on the north-eastern coast, the remains of a handful of houses where ancient Roman soldiers manned what must have been a godforsaken posting and an impressive Byzantine chapel.

It is also a very popular destination for diving holidays and there are several diving centres on the island that organise diving courses and excursions and thank God for that! The clean and clear blue seas that surround the island can be enjoyed from a boat, above the surface, of course. However, if you get a chance, take advantage of those clear waters and diving facilities and explore the coves, fish and marine life that lie beneath.

Should none of that take your fancy, why not explore the appealing modern town. Simplistic and charming, it is made up of a cluster of characteristic whitewashed houses with blue painted shutters that descend towards the water and colourful little fishing boats tied up at a ramshackle port. Find a place in a local cafe, grab a cappuccino, settle in with a good book and allow yourself to indulge in a much slower pace of life than you are probably used to. What more could you want from a holiday in Italy?