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Discover the Surroundings
Messina and its province have long been among the most visited destinations in Sicily and Italy. This stunning area offers a unique variety of landscapes, culture and traditions. Discover what lies around Malù Suites.
Capo Peloro
Just a short walk from Malù Suites lies the Capo Peloro Nature Reserve, the easternmost point of Sicily, marked by the famous electricity pylon connecting Sicily to mainland Italy, known as “Il Pilone”.
What makes this place unique is the meeting of two seas: the colder, rougher Ionian Sea and the calm, warmer Tyrrhenian Sea. The experience is surreal—on one side a deep blue, constantly rippling sea, on the other a calm, crystal-clear turquoise sea.
It is no coincidence that Homer described this stretch of the Strait of Messina in the famous episode of Scylla and Charybdis in the Odyssey.
Photo: Xxlstier, CC BY 4.0
Messina Coast Bar Tour
During the summer months, the Messina coastline comes alive with beach clubs offering sunbeds and umbrellas by day, and transforming into refined restaurants, elegant lounge bars and nightclubs in the evening. A pleasant way to spend an evening, especially on weekends.
Photo: Anna Majkowska, CC BY 2.0
Scilla (RC)
Directly opposite Capo Peloro lies this charming Calabrian village, famous for its small restaurants built on stilts over the sea. Access is directly from the water by boat or dinghy. Don’t miss the swordfish sandwich!
Photo: John Menard, CC BY-SA 2.0
Taormina
Known as the “Pearl of the Ionian Sea”, Taormina is probably Sicily’s most famous tourist destination. Renowned for its Ancient Greek Theatre overlooking Mount Etna, it features a beautiful main street connecting Porta Messina and Porta Catania. The view from Piazza IX Aprile alone is worth the trip.
Aeolian Islands
The “Seven Sisters” form a volcanic archipelago on the Tyrrhenian side of the province of Messina. Organized tours offer day trips to the larger islands, mainly Lipari and Vulcano. Tours depart early in the morning by hydrofoil and include a guide.
Photo: cattan2011, CC BY 2.0
Alcantara Gorges
A volcanic canyon carved by the Alcantara River, approximately 300,000 years old. During summer, visitors can enjoy refreshing walks with their feet in the water (river trekking).
Photo: Gallant_g, CC BY-SA 3.0
Ganzirri Lakes
Two saltwater lakes overlooking the Strait, famous for their many traditional Messina seafood restaurants. Mussels and clams are farmed here, and a walk along the shore offers the chance to watch local fishermen at work.
🌋 Etna
Mount Etna, also known as “Mungibeddu” or “Iddu”, is a living presence on the island—ever-present, loved and respected by locals. With certified mountain guides, it is possible to hike the dormant side of the volcano, where the landscape is described as “lunar”. For a more relaxed experience, private off-road tours are available.
Photo: BenAveling, CC BY-SA 4.0
Photo: BilgeBitig, CC BY-SA 2.0
Savoca
A hidden gem for fans of The Godfather saga. Remember Bar Vitelli, where a young Al Pacino met the father of his future wife? It is located right here in Savoca and looks exactly as it did in the 1970s. Cinematic tours recreate the atmosphere of the Corleone family.
Photo: Effems, CC BY-SA 4.0
Milazzo, Capo d'Orlando and the Tyrrhenian Coast
Along the Tyrrhenian coast you will find lively towns perfect for relaxing days and fun evenings. Milazzo and Capo d'Orlando are the most renowned, but there are also small villages nestled in the Nebrodi Mountains waiting to be discovered. From the beaches, the Aeolian Islands appear so close they seem within reach.
