Overview

The San Domenico Palace has long been the world’s definitive monastery hotel. The 15th-century building served for centuries as a Dominican monastery until it was opened to guests in 1896, with some of the rooms being converted monks’ cells.

Monks are known for their gardening skills and the hotel keeps up this tradition with its wonderful formal gardens and parterre, which is ablaze with flowers all year round. From the garden there are views of Mount Etna beyond Taormina’s Ancient Greek theatre.

Accommodation: 105 Guest Rooms

Accommodation

The 15th-century building served for centuries as a Dominican monastery until it was opened to guests in 1896. Some of the rooms are converted monks’ cells, some with calming cloister views, others with views over Taormina Bay.

Designed to highlight the highest level of pampering, the unique Garden Suite offers the privacy and cosiness of a luxurious one bedroom suite surrounded by a sea view terrace with a Jacuzzi mini pool.

Restaurants & Bars

Dining options include Les Bougavillees restaurant (from mid May to mid October on the terrace) for Mediterranean and international cuisine or the gourmet restaurant Principe Cerami.

Lunch is a Sicilian poolside affair at Il Giardino dei Limoni (from April to October) while evenings are finished with a drink in the Lounge bar, Oratorio dei Frati.

Recreation

The Beauty Corner is the ideal choice for taking time out for an pampering experience of absolute wellbeing, with massages and beauty treatments.

Other recreational facilities include the outdoor pool (open from April to October) and the gym, while the town of Taormina, which is dotted with intimate piazzas and a 15th-century palazzo, has been described as a Sicilian Monte Carlo.