Why we love Sicily

Sicily is Italy, and yet it is not quite Italy. The largest island in the Mediterranean has been shaped by Greeks, Romans, Arabs, Normans and Spaniards — and you can taste, see and feel all of them. It is one of those places that stays with you long after you get home.

Few places hold so many layers in such a small space. Ancient Greek temples stand in open fields, golden mosaics shine in Norman churches, and whole towns were rebuilt in honey-coloured baroque after the great earthquake of 1693. You do not need to be a history lover to be moved by it.

Mount Etna, Europe's most active volcano, watches over the east coast. Around it lie vineyards, citrus groves and black lava fields — and just a short drive away, beaches with water so clear it looks unreal. The variety is part of the magic: mountains in the morning, the sea in the afternoon.

Sicilian food is a reason to travel in itself. Think arancini, fresh seafood, pistachios, blood oranges, cannoli and granita for breakfast. Much of it reflects the island's mixed history, and almost all of it is best enjoyed slowly.

Sicily rewards travellers who take their time. Distances can be longer than they look, and the island is best enjoyed with a car and a good plan — so you spend your days in the right places instead of on the road.