Sicily is an island with an ancient and fascinating history, and Taormina is its Pearl. There are countless literary references to this place that have always inspired artists, writers and poets of every age and origin, it has often been chosen as a film set, and it is no coincidence that Baron Wilhelm Von Gloeden chose it for his photographs.
Villa Mon Repos is seen and easily reached by the Isola Bella, embraced by a crystalline sea; the name was coined by the German Baron Wilhelm von Gloenden, whose word spread throughout the world about the artistic value of the island. In 1998 it was established as a nature reserve, managed by the WWF, then by the Province of Messina, and recently passed into the management of CUTGANA, the center of environmental protection of the University of Catania.
From Villa Mon Repos you can admire and easily reach the fairy-tale Isola Bella, encircled by a crystal clear sea. Given its short distance from the coast, at low tide the island actually becomes a peninsula, connected to the mainland by a thin strip of sand. In 1984, the Sicilian Region declared Isola Bella a monument of historical and artistic interest, as it is “an isolated example of unique natural, historical and cultural value.” It became an official nature reserve in 1998.
In the areas surrounding Villa Mon Repos you can find the most beautiful beaches in Taormina, such as Mazzaro and Giardini Naxos, which you can also reach on foot. The central hub of the best of Sicilian sophistication, Taormina boasts exclusive restaurants and bars, prestigious one-brand shops and exclusive places for socialising, where internationally recognised cultural events are held, such as “Taormina Arte” (Taormina Arts) and its Film Festival.