Sicily brochure 2016 mwt

SICILY

Love

Hotels City Breaks Farmhouses Aeolian Islands

& PUGLIA 2016

ATOL prote ct ed h olid ays fro m severa l local airp or ts

WELCOME TO SICILY … AND PUGLIA A wonderful climate, friendly people, superb food and wine, beautiful beaches, stunning landscapes and a heady mix of cultural attractions – there really is something for everyone – Sicily has it all!

2

Upon arrival in Sicily, although technically still in Italy, your senses tell you otherwise! This beautiful island’s rich and colourful past, colonized by the Greeks, Normans, Romans and Moors (to name just a few), has given rise to an incredible land of contrasts – from the fascinating ‘souks’ of Palermo and the tuna fisheries of Trapani to the majestic Greek temples of Agrigento and the baroque UNESCO treasures of the South East.

Today’s Sicily boasts a truly delightful range of accommodation, from characterful Moorish farmhouses, friendly family run three star B&B’s to stylish four star boutique properties and luxurious five star palaces. Whether you wish to simply relax and indulge yourself in one of the many exquisite hotels we offer, or explore this magical island with a multi-centre holiday – or a combination of the two – we will be pleased to assist!

Only a two and a half hours’ flight from the UK, Sicily truly is the ‘melting pot’ of the Mediterranean and is its largest island, perfectly nestled between the toe of Italy and the North African coast. Blessed with a fabulous climate, summers are long with temperatures sometimes reaching 25°C even as early as March/ April and as late as October/November.

New for 2016 is the lovely region of Puglia (the heel of Italy), we are excited to introduce this up and coming destination. Although lesser known than Sicily, Puglia too boasts a wonderful mix of culture, gastronomy, beaches … discover it for yourself before everyone else does! (See pages 60 to 71).

It’s time for you to experience Sicily and Puglia: you will fall in love with them like we have!

From Our Sicily & Puglia Expert “In 1978 I took a train from London to Palermo, Sicily. On arrival as I peered outside Palermo train station the view was a far more exotic one than mainland Italy. Rows of palm trees, deep blue skies with baroque backdrops and a vocal street hawker whipping up ‘brioches con gelato’ topped with freshly made cream. This assault on my 16 year old senses was the beginning of a 37-year journey and love affair with the incredible island of Sicily.

This stunning destination boasts a heady mix of culture, incredibly friendly people, great weather, superb cuisine and wine and gorgeous beaches. The very best of Italy but with an exotic twist! Lots of people are talking about Sicily. Whether it’s due to television programmes such as ‘Montalbano’ and ‘Sicily Unpacked’ or friends and relatives who have holidayed there, the one-time shroud of mystery surrounding this magical island has now been lifted. Go and see for yourself! However, flights do get busy, so book early.

I have lived, worked and travelled extensively throughout Sicily and carefully selected all the properties in this brochure. My intention is to provide ‘something for everyone’ and to convey the huge variety between the different regions.

I am really excited to introduce the lesser known region of Puglia for 2016 (the ‘heel’ of Italy) which is a fantastic multi-centre destination boasting lovely coastlines, fabulous gastronomy and an eclectic array of UNESCO protected towns.

Please don’t hesitate to contact me on sicily@prestigeholidays.co.uk if I can be of assistance in creating your perfect holiday.

Wishing you a fabulous time in Sicily and Puglia – look out for my tips throughout the brochure!”

Paul Stratton

Ortigia 3

CORSICA

WELCOME TO SICILY CLIMATE

NATURE

Sicily really is a year round destination, with temperatures rarely dipping lower than 1520°C during winter. Swimming is generally possible from April/May through to November and with its geographical location just off the North African coast summers are long and warm!

Spring is a wonderful time to visit with beautiful yellow fields of wild flowers providing a striking contrast to rolling green hills and deep blue skies reflecting against the lovely Mediterranean. You may catch sight of some rare birds which pass through enroute to or from Africa – the wild Vendicari Nature Reserve in the South East is a good spot for this.

Dolphins are frequently viewed both around the Plemmirio Marine Reserve near Ortigia and the stunning coastline of the Zingaro Marine Reserve between Scopello and San Vito Lo Capo.

HISTORY Due to its strategic trading location in the Mediterranean, Sicily was fought over and colonized during past centuries by the Greeks, Normans, Phoenicians and the Moors. Each of these civilizations left its mark on the island providing today a rich collection of stunning Greek temples and sites, namely those of Segesta, Agrigento, Selinunte and Siracusa.

Beautifully frescoed Norman churches can be found throughout the island (especially in Palermo) and the small baroque gems such as Ispica, Scicli and Ortigia are simply breathtaking.

GASTRONOMY Sicily is a gastronomist’s paradise! Take Italy’s delicious cuisine and embellish it with wonderful local sun drenched produce, together with spices brought over by the Moors. Western Sicily’s cous cous with fish, pasta dishes using fennel, pistachio and raisins, fresh seafood. Sicilian ice cream, probably the best in Italy, served up in a sweet bun (brioche) and the ‘granita’ (water ice) is simply divine. Wine production is now better than ever with some excellent reds, such as the fruity Cerasuolo di Vittoria and fine whites such as Inzolia. We can even offer properties specialising in gastronomy with cooking lessons, so please do ask.

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SARDINIA

MEET THE TEAM

BEACHES Boasting a fine collection of both sand and pebble beaches, providing safe bathing and some excellent snorkelling. For those looking for the ultimate in beautiful, wide sandy beaches, San Vito Lo Capo is reminiscent of the tropics, with its fine white sand and crystal clear waters. Cefalu’s sandy beach, with excellent bathing for children, is very close to both its lively resort centre and hotels. The Zingaro Marine Reserve has some lovely little pebble coves with superb snorkelling, as do the rocky inlets around Taormina.

TOURING/MULTI-CENTRE From the exotic, wild West to the mesmerising Mediterranean East, a stay in two or three locations of this idyllic island really paints a perfect picture and adds real variety. Perhaps explore for a week and then relax, or mix a character property with a luxury one. Avoiding Palermo and Catania, driving is relatively easy, but if you’d prefer we’d be happy to arrange a private transfer from one area to another!

Please see page 59 for more details.

Ilona Mernieks Prestige Holidays TUNISIA Destination Manager (Sicily)

CONTENTS WELCOME TO SICILY PAGES 4-5 SIRACUSA & BAROQUE SOUTH EAST PAGES 6-15 ORTIGIA, NOTO, SCICLI, ISPICA, MODICA, RAGUSA

WESTERN SICILY PAGES 16-23

MENFI, AGRIGENTO, MARSALA, SCIACCA

SAN VITO LO CAPO PAGES 24-27

BOOK ONLINE AT WWW.PRESTIGEHOLIDAYS.CO.UK/SICILY

Peschici

Ad r ia

t ic

Se

a

Bari

Puglia

ITALY

Matera

Brindisi

Ion ian S

ea

Tyrrhenian Sea

Aeolian Islands Palermo Egadi Islands

Trapani

Western Sicily

M ed iter

Cefalu

Taormina & North East Catania

ran e

an

Siracusa & Baroque South East

Se

a

Comiso

Pantelleria Island

WISH YOU WERE HERE! X CASTELLAMMARE DEL GOLFO

AEOLIAN ISLANDS PAGES 52-54

PAGES 28-31

LIPARI

PALERMO PAGES 32-33

TOUR, SICILY OFF THE BEATEN TRACK

CEFALU PAGES 34-39

CEFALU TOWN,RURAL HOTELS

TAORMINA & GIARDINI NAXOS PAGES 40-51 TAORMINA, TAORMINA MARE, GIARDINI NAXOS

PAGE 55

AGRITURISMO PAGES 56-58

PUGLIA PAGES 60-71

PESCHICI, TRANI, MATERA, ALBEROBELLO, TORRE CANNE, SAVELLETRI, OSTUNI, LECCE, OTRANTO

FLIGHTS PAGE 72

SICILIAN GASTRONOMY EXPERIENCE

HOW TO BOOK PAGE 73

TOURING/ MULTI-CENTRES PAGE 59

BOOKING CONDITIONS PAGE 74 IMPORTANT INFORMATION PAGE 75

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SIRACUSA & BAROQUE SOUTH EAST Enchanting towns, delectable cuisine and unspoilt beaches Stunningly beautiful towns, with breathtaking architecture, gorgeous beaches and food and wine to die for, this is Sicily’s South East, a well kept secret, but rapidly appearing on people’s radar thanks to television programmes like ‘Montalbano’ – the detective series, which is filmed in this unspoilt and well kept corner of the island … the ‘Tuscany’ of Sicily.

restaurants, shops and bars, all easily accessible on foot. Just a little further south from Ortigia lies the Plemmirio Marine Reserve, and the fine sandy beach at Fontane Bianche, with its shallow crystal clear waters.

Siracusa itself boasts a superb range of Greek and Roman sites, but the real jewel in the crown here is the peninsula of Ortigia. With the lovely azure Mediterranean sea present on all sides this beguiling town is comprised of a myriad of lanes and streets adorned with baroque gems and piazzas, turning to soft colours of honey and ochre as sunset approaches. The atmosphere is truly magical and there is a fantastic selection of

The heart of the baroque South East is now far more accessible with a fast motorway completed right up to Rosolini, making the delightful towns of Noto, Ispica, Scicli, Modica and Ragusa so much easier to reach. These stunning baroque beauties carry an air of authenticity, with extremely friendly locals, beautiful churches and tempting trattorias serving up delicious pasta dishes embellished with cherry tomatoes from nearby Pachino. Be sure to try the local ‘Cerasuolo di Vittoria’, unique to this area and perhaps Sicily’s most exclusive red wine.

Catania

Siracusa/Ortigia Comiso Ragusa Scicli

Modica

Noto

Ispica

Dubrovnik

IPS

’S T PAUL

and squares l u f i t u a the ost be ilight on e of the m w n t o e … r i d l r m om o “Ad in the wo azza Du i s e P r f u o t c e e c t e archi eight ster pi o’ … the h oque ma r c a n b a i g ‘b n i d chille stunn ipping a s a i g ce.” i t r in O of roman Ortigia 6

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SIRACUSA & BAROQUE SOUTH EAST SICILY |

Ragusa

Scicli is a delightful gem; smaller than its better known neighbours this pretty baroque jewel boasts a myriad of lovely churches intertwined with intimate piazzas. Many of the scenes in ‘Montalbano’ are filmed here and this compact town is really easy to get around on foot – an ideal location for eating out in the evenings without having to drive! From Scicli it’s just a fifteen minute drive to the lovely uncrowded sandy beaches on the south coast.

The two nearby larger centres of Ragusa and Modica are equally tantalizing. The gorgeous historic centre of Ibla di Ragusa, lies nestled in a valley just below the main town and is a joy to wander around boasting a great variety of restaurants, cafés and shops. There are even a couple of Michelin starred restaurants here, Il Duomo and Don Serafino. Located within a stunningly dramatic canyon Modica is a beautiful bustling town with some exceptional examples of baroque architecture, and plenty to see and do including chocolate tasting! (Every year Modica hosts the international chocolate festival in early December).

Fontane Bianche Beach

One of the unique features of the beautiful baroque South East is that these fascinating centres ‘live’ year round – making them an ideal choice for a break at any time of the year.

A short drive from these enchanting towns takes you to some lovely coastline and sandy beaches, including the wild and completely unspoilt Vendicari Nature Reserve. You may even fancy popping over to Malta for the day from Pozzallo!

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SIRACUSA & BAROQUE SOUTH EAST SICILY |

ALGILA ORTIGIA CHARME HOTEL ORTIGIA, SIRACUSA ★ ★ ★ ★

Located right in the centre of the baroque jewel of Ortigia and just a stone’s throw from the seafront, the Algila is made up of two beautifully and sympathetically restored ‘palazzo’s’ from the 1700’s. Coupled with modern day comforts and extremely attentive service this charming hotel makes for a wonderful base. All the attractions of this lovely peninsula are at your fingertips, which provides an ideal gateway to exploring the delightful baroque towns of South East Sicily and its unspoilt coastline.

ROOMS Comprising of two beautiful baroque palazzo’s – the Palazzo Algila and the newly restored Palazzo Bongiovanni, the 52 bedrooms have all been created in a warm yet authentic style – beams and other original features such as antique pieces help to reflect the Sicily of the 1700’s. All rooms have safe, hairdryer, air-conditioning, mini-bar (free soft drinks), satellite TV, Wi-fi, bathroom with shower and a small French balcony. Some boast seaviews while others look out over the surrounding baroque buildings. Junior suites and an executive suite with Jacuzzi are also available.

LIVING As a unique historical residence the Algila is comprised on the ground floor of a warm and welcoming reception, cosy sitting areas with Wi-fi, an intimate bar (try the ‘latte di mandorla’, locally produced almond milk with a dash of espresso!) and an attractive restaurant serving up delicious buffet breakfasts and evening meals (closed Sundays).

Bedrooms are located throughout the two palazzos above, stretching across the four original buildings.

As soon as you leave this lovely oasis you are thrown into the stunning contrast of Ortigia’s white baroque buildings set against the deep blue sky and Mediterranean sea.

Shops, bars and excellent trattorias serving up sumptuous seafood meals abound and an evening stroll with alfresco dining in Ortigia’s beautifully lit ‘piazzas’ is perhaps one of the most romantic and charismatic experiences in Sicily!

Transfer time from Catania airport – approx. one hour.

P RICING in Classi c Room, Fren ch Bal cony, BB Low

Mid

High

Peak

7 Nts 10 Nts

714 919

813 1009

849 1089

917 1158

Dates Applicable

4 Nov-14 Dec 8 Jan-22 Mar

15-22 Jul

1 May-21 Jun 8 Sep-25 Oct

1 Aug-7 Sep

A SELECTION OF GUIDE PRICES (between 1 Nov 15-31 Oct 16) per person in £ with flights from Gatwick. Seaview from £20 per person per night. Half board from £22 per person per night. For flight information see page 72. Other dates of travel, room types and single occupancy will be quoted with pleasure. To make a booking see page 73.

ADDED VALUE!

Guests receive a complimentary room upgrade subject to availability on arrival.

Bicycles are available to hire free of charge. Complimentary International phone calls to landlines only from the telephone in your bedroom.

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SIRACUSA & BAROQUE SOUTH EAST SICILY |

HOTEL BORGO PANTANO NEAR SIRACUSA, AGRITURISMO ★ ★ ★ ★

Immersed amongst the citrus groves of the Sicilian countryside close to Siracusa, lies the most stylish and contemporary example of a restored ‘baglio’ (farmhouse). As you enter Borgo Pantano you feel as if you have just stepped into a scene from the ‘Arabian Nights’; white cushions, loungers and gazebos adorn the spacious courtyard and gardens leading to the spectacular swimming pool. With friendly, attentive service, excellent cuisine and a high standard of accommodation this lovely property is an ideal base for a holiday combining relaxation and sightseeing.

ROOMS Borgo Pantano’s 32 bedrooms are all designed in a contemporary yet warm style, using the finest Sicilian fabrics, furnishings and vibrant colours. The three categories of classic, comfort (photo) and junior suite all boast the same level of accommodation but differ in size. All rooms enjoy safe, mini-bar, air-conditioning, hairdryer, DVD player, LCD satellite TV, tea/coffee making facilities and Wi-fi. Classic rooms offer shower, whilst Comfort and Junior Suites have either bath or shower (some junior suites also have a terrace).

LIVING The high point of this stylish property has to be the stunning swimming pool, which has been designed as a figure of eight and is surrounded by decking and perfectly manicured gardens, where there is plenty of space to relax in the sun or shade. During the summer months there’s an informal restaurant/bar around the pool area. Back at the hotel an authentic courtyard beckons, where you can spend some time reading a book or sipping a chilled ‘granita’. There’s a small bar and a trendy restaurant with rooftop terrace serving up some of the best Sicilian cuisine using only locally produced fresh ingredients.

To top all of this why not pamper yourself in the charming wellness area with a sauna, Jacuzzi or massage …

Founded by the Greeks with its amphitheatre Siracusa is just a fifteen minute drive away (the hotel offers a shuttle bus service for those who prefer not to drive) and both the baroque gems and sandy beaches of the South East are within easy reach by car.

Transfer time from Catania airport – approx. one hour.

P RICING i n Cl assic Room, BB Low

Mid

High

Peak

7 Nts 10 Nts

629 777

649 807

718 874

786 969

Dates Applicable

1-6 May 1-31 Oct

1-30 Apr 16 May-5 Jul

22 Aug-7 Sep

15 Jul-12 Aug

8-21 Sep A SELECTION OF GUIDE PRICES (between 1 Apr 16-31 Oct 16) per person in £ with flights from Gatwick. Comfort room from £4 per person per night. Half board from £24 per person per night. For flight information see page 72. Other dates of travel, room types and single occupancy will be quoted with pleasure. To make a booking see page 73.

ADDED VALUE!

Valid for holidays started and completed between 1 Apr-14 Jul & 22 Aug-31 Oct: Book by 31 Mar 16 and save at least £7 per person per night OR Book between 1-30 Apr and save at least £3 per person per night OR Stay 6 pay 5, saving at least £45 per person. Surprise gift in room on arrival for Honeymooners

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9

SIRACUSA & BAROQUE SOUTH EAST SICILY |

LA CORTE DEL SOLE NEAR NOTO, AGRITURISMO ★ ★ ★ ★

This lovingly restored and authentic Sicilian ‘masseria’ (farmhouse), enjoys an enviable location overlooking the gorgeous Vendicari Nature Reserve with easy access to some of Sicily’s finest sandy beaches yet just a short drive to the baroque treasure of Noto, which is rapidly becoming the ‘in place’ to be in Sicily’s unspoilt South East corner.

ROOMS All 34 bedrooms are located around the charming courtyard or swimming pool and boast traditional Sicilian furnishings using local materials such as terracotta and ceramics.

Romantica rooms enjoy four poster beds, whilst Oasi rooms have the added benefit of a balcony or terrace. All rooms boast safe, hairdryer, mini-bar, shower, satellite TV, air-conditioning and Wi-fi (Romantica rooms also offer bathrobes and slippers). Family rooms with up to four beds are also available on request.

LIVING This charming and characterful ‘masseria’ is well designed to take advantage of its elevated position and stunning views, enjoying a variety of relaxation and sitting areas – perfect for de-stressing and taking in the beautiful surroundings. Tucked away to one side lies a small freshwater pool with sunbeds and umbrellas and pool bar, whilst there is also a reception/sitting area and traditional courtyard where you can simply relax

SELF -DRIVE over a good book. Sumptuous Sicilian cuisine is served by friendly staff in the evenings on the most delightful and romantic terrace adorned with traditional ceramic tables overlooking the stunning Vendicari countryside (open approx. June-Sept), alternatively meals are served inside the traditional and beamed, cosy restaurant. A lovely Sicilian breakfast can also be enjoyed on the terrace and gardens adjoining the farmhouse’s ancient ‘palmento’, where the wine production used to be carried out.

Bicycles can be hired locally and there are cooking lessons, wine tastings and massage/ beauty treatments which can also be arranged with the friendly team at Corte del Sole.

If you can drag yourself away from this peaceful oasis, the fine sandy beaches and unspoilt coastline of Eloro and Vendicari are just a short drive away, as is the beautiful baroque town of Noto and the quaint yet exotic fishing village of Marzememi.

For guest’s enjoyment we include an economy hire car in our prices.

Driving time from Catania airport – approx. one hour.

P RICING i n Me di terr anean Room, BB Low

Mid

High

Peak

3 Nts 7 Nts

343 564

429 689

499 765

559 905

Dates Applicable

1-26 Mar

16-30 Apr 11 Jun-5 Jul 8-24 Sep

15-30 Jul 24 Aug-7 Sep

6-14 Aug

A SELECTION OF GUIDE PRICES (between 1 Mar 16-31 Oct 16) per person in £ with flights from Gatwick. Romantica room from £5 per person per night. Half board * from £22 per person per night. For flight information see page 72. Other dates of travel, room types and single occupancy will be quoted with pleasure. To make a booking see page 73. * Half Board is only available between 15 Mar-31 Oct 16.

ADDED VALUE!

Stay 4 pay 3 for holidays started & completed between 1-31 Mar & 1-31 Oct. Stay 7 pay 6 for holidays started & completed between 1 Apr-31 May OR Stay 7 nights on HB booked by 30 Apr 16 and save at least £40 per person between 15 Mar-05 Aug & 21 Aug-31 Oct OR Reduced HB rate for guests staying 5 nights or more between 15 Mar-5 Aug & 21 Aug-31 Oct. 10

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SIRACUSA & BAROQUE SOUTH EAST SICILY |

HOTEL NOVECENTO SCICLI ★ ★ ★ ★

With a superb central location in the lesser known small baroque jewel of Scicli, the Hotel Novecento is a fabulous example of the stylish renovation of an ancient ‘palazzo’ into a small boutique property. Located in the heart of Sicily’s baroque South East, yet close to the coast, the Novecento is an ideal choice for couples looking to discover this area and experience truly authentic local Sicilian life.

ROOMS The nine bedrooms, several with frescoed ceilings, have been designed and decorated with great taste which marries the best of contemporary style with historic detail.

All boast shower, safe, hairdryer, iron, air-conditioning, mini-bar, satellite TV and cable internet connection. Deluxe rooms also have bathrobes and slippers for added comfort.

LIVING The Novecento is a charming and comfortable hotel, which offers its guests a sumptuous Sicilian buffet breakfast in its historic ‘Caffè 900’, including local specialities, such as ‘granita al limone’. Service is friendly and efficient and aside from a popular café-bar there is a delightful, small courtyard where one can linger over a good book.

P RICING in Sup eri or Room, B B Wint er

Perhaps the greatest advantage of this lovely little hotel is its unique location, as soon as you leave the Novecento you are enveloped by beautiful ochre-coloured baroque architecture in every direction you look. Wandering the streets and alleyways of this small baroque gem is a delight, stopping to sip a ‘cerasuolo di vittoria’ (superb local red wine) in one of the atmospheric ‘piazzas’ or to admire the film location of the Sicilian detective series ‘Montalbano’, which is just a few minutes’ stroll from the hotel.

Low

Mid

High

3 Nts 7 Nts

329 475

357 506

409 588

Dates Applicable

1 Nov-25 Dec

1 Feb-25 Mar

1-23 Apr

Summ er

Low

Mid

High

Peak

The larger and better known baroque towns of Modica and Ragusa are easily accessible by car as is the South coast and its beautiful wild beaches, such as Sampieri or the Vendicari Nature Reserve. Why not hire a car for a few days to give you the freedom to explore this beautiful area, please ask us for prices.

3 Nts 7 Nts

325 467

369 539

433 599

505 688

Dates Applicable

1-31 Oct

1-24 Sep

1 May-30 Jun

1-25 Aug

Transfer time from Comiso airport – approx. 50 minutes.

Transfer time from Catania airport – approx. two hours.

A SELECTION OF GUIDE PRICES (between 1 Nov 15-31 Oct 16) per person in £ with flights from Stansted. Deluxe room from £7 per person per night. For flight information see page 72. Other dates of travel, room types and single occupancy will be quoted with pleasure. To make a booking see page 73.

ADDED VALUE!

Stay 7 pay 6 for holidays started & completed between 1 Nov-31 Mar and 1-31 Jul, saving at least £34 per person per week. Honeymooners will enjoy sparkling wine, fruit and chocolate in rooms on arrival.

ASK YOUR AGENT TO RING PRESTIGE HOLIDAYS 01425 480 400

11

SIRACUSA & BAROQUE SOUTH EAST SICILY |

RELAIS TORRE MARABINO NEAR ISPICA, AGRITURISMO

Situated in a quiet and peaceful countryside location, yet close to the beach, deep in the south eastern corner of beautiful baroque Sicily the Torre Marabino is a delightful ‘agriturismo’ yet boasts the added advantages of a service similar to that of a boutique hotel and provides an exceptionally comfortable base to explore the lovely nearby baroque gems of Modica, Scicli, Ragusa and Ispica. Run by the ever attentive and welcoming Francesco and his team the mouth-watering cuisine, beautifully kept gardens and inviting outdoor pool ensure that if all you want to do is relax then you need not venture very far at all.

SELF -DRIVE ROOMS There are just seven spacious rooms in total located on the ground and first floor.

Comfortably furnished in an authentic style with soft Sicilian colours, they all have shower, safe, mini-bar, satellite TV, hairdryer, air-conditioning and Wi-fi. The larger rooms can sleep up to four people and some are duplex style.

LIVING The characterful and stone built Torre Marabino was originally a Saracen tower and today has been developed into a wonderful retreat. Delightful terraces spill out from every angle where you can enjoy a glass of ‘nero d’avola’ in the shade of a fig tree overlooking the gorgeous gardens and countryside. The pretty outdoor pool has been carefully landscaped into one corner of the gardens, offering a good deal of privacy.

One of the main features of the Torre is that all the excellent wines and food are organically produced at the property itself, and Marabino’s creative chef will spoil you in the hotel’s cosy restaurant with a sublime choice of local specialities and fine wines.

A special four or six course gastronomic meal is available as are cooking lessons and a visit to the estate’s wine cellar with wine tasting (all at a supplement).

Whilst this location is ideal for visiting all the baroque towns of the South East, the nearest beach is a mere ten minutes’ drive away and you can even venture on a day trip out to Malta! For guests’ enjoyment we include an economy hire car in our prices.

Driving time from Comiso airport – approx. one hour.

Driving time from Catania airport – approx. one hour 25 minutes.

P RICING i n Super i or Room, BB Low

Mid

High

Peak

3 Nts 7 Nts

359 599

428 684

449 739

519 807

Dates Applicable

1 Nov-23 Feb

1-25 Oct

1 May-5 Jul 8-24 Sep

15 Jul-7 Sep

A SELECTION OF GUIDE PRICES (between 1 Nov 15-31 Oct 16) per person in £ with flights from Gatwick. Suite from £7 per person per night. Half board from £25 per person per night. For flight information see page 72. Other dates of travel, room types and single occupancy will be quoted with pleasure. To make a booking see page 73.

ADDED VALUE!

Honeymooners will enjoy complimentary sparkling wine and basket of fruit in room on arrival.

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SIRACUSA & BAROQUE SOUTH EAST SICILY |

PALAZZO FAILLA MODICA ★ ★ ★ ★

This charming 18th century family owned and run baroque palazzo sits in the tranquil and elevated location of ‘Modica Alta’ just above the main centre of this UNESCO protected gem. A stay in this traditionally furnished, small city break style property is ideal for those who wish to explore the delights of Modica itself or to use as a base to visit the surrounding area at any time of the year.

ROOMS All seven bedrooms are comfortably furnished in a warm and aristocratic Sicilian style of a bygone era and offer shower, hairdryer, safe, bathrobes, air-conditioning, mini-bar, satellite TV and Wi-fi. Classic rooms are located on the top floor and have an attic style layout, whilst Superior, Deluxe and Junior Suites all boast balconies and are larger in size and can accommodate up to two extra beds on request.

Modica

LIVING With an intimate and welcoming environment Palazzo Failla offers a small lounge/sitting area, an adjoining historic ‘Caffe Blandini’ (where you can enjoy a delicious ‘granita’).

Guests who like an informal approach with delicious home cooking can try out the hotel’s own authentic trattoria Locanda Colonello (photo above, 50m from the hotel), where á la carte half board is offered too.

A fifteen minutes’ stroll downhill past some gorgeous baroque churches leads you into the centre of delightful Modica, where there is a variety of cultural attractions, eateries, bars and pavement cafés. The annual ‘chocobarocco’ international chocolate festival takes place here, usually in early December. Should the climb back up to your hotel prove a little too much, the friendly Failla family are usually on hand to provide a lift!

Cooking lessons and visits to local ‘agriturismi’ with wine tasting and cheese tasting can also be organised locally by reception.

Transfer time from Catania airport – approx. one hour 40 minutes.

Transfer time from Comiso airport – approx. 45 minutes.

P RICING i n Cl assic Atti c Room, BB Wint er

Low

Mid

High

3 Nts 7 Nts

309 427

332 446

399 559

Dates Applicable

1-27 Nov 8-12 Dec

1 Feb-18 Mar

1-30 Apr

6-31 Jan

Summ er

Low

Mid

High

3 Nts 7 Nts

337 489

389 497

485 638

Dates Applicable

1-24 Oct

5-30 Jun

1-31 Aug

A SELECTION OF GUIDE PRICES (between 1 Nov 15-31 Oct 16) per person in £ with flights from Stansted. Superior room from £4 per person per night. Half Board from £22 per person per night. For flight information see page 72. Other dates of travel, room types and single occupancy will be quoted with pleasure. To make a booking see page 73.

ADDED VALUE!

Stay 7 pay 6 for holidays started & completed between 2 Jan-31 Oct, saving at least £25 per person. Cooking lessons, farm visits and wine tasting can be organised by the hotel at an extra charge, payable locally.

ASK YOUR AGENT TO RING PRESTIGE HOLIDAYS 01425 480 400

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SIRACUSA & BAROQUE SOUTH EAST SICILY |

ARTEMISIA NEAR RAGUSA, AGRITURISMO ★ ★ ★

This lovingly restored Sicilian ‘masseria’ (farmhouse), is located in a quiet and rural location of South East Sicily, yet just a 15 minute drive to the historic UNESCO city of Ragusa. With super friendly and attentive service from the owners, the Artemisia oozes Sicilian charm and makes for a truly relaxing base from which to explore this fascinating area. Ideal for couples and families alike looking for that eclectic mix of both sightseeing and down time. A stay at the Artemisia ensures a really authentic Sicilian experience!

ROOMS The 13 beautifully appointed bedrooms are located either on the ground or first floor of the ‘masseria’. Fine local materials together with exposed stonework have been used to create a design which combines the perfect marriage of simple elegance with authenticity. All rooms have shower, safe, hairdryer, TV (a satellite TV is available for guests’ use in the public area of the hotel), mini-bar, air-conditioning, Wi-fi and tea/ coffee making facilities. Triple and Quadruple rooms are also available.

SELF -DRIVE LIVING This delightful farmhouse is set in its own spacious grounds leading down to a large and extremely inviting swimming pool, where a refreshing dip and a good book is the order of the day! The main beautifully restored masseria stone building houses the reception and small bar with sitting areas. A sumptuous Sicilian breakfast is also served here and spills out on to a huge terrace overlooking the pool and grounds where guests can enjoy a chilled evening aperitif. Although Artemisia does not have its own restaurant the owners are more than happy to assist in ordering some delicious local food in, or you may wish to try your hand at barbequing (facilities provided)! Bicycles are available for guests’ use as is a games room with table tennis.

The nearest trattoria is only a 500m walk away, but don’t forget to take a torch for the way home!

Should you succeed in dragging yourself away from this haven of tranquillity, you are ideally placed to visit the stunning baroque gems of Ibla di Ragusa, Scicli and Modica.

The pretty and unspoilt coastline of southern Sicily is just a 30 minutes’ drive away … make sure to stop at Montalbano’s house at Punta Secca! For guest’s enjoyment we include an economy hire car in our prices.

Driving time from Comiso airport – approx. 30 minutes.

Driving time from Catania airport – approx. one hour 30 minutes.

P RICING i n Tw in/D oubl e Room, BB Wint er

Low

High

3 Nts 7 Nts

307 479

369 553

Dates Applicable

1 Nov-25 Mar

1-30 Apr

Summe r

Low

Mid

High

3 Nts 7 Nts

365 537

375 562

446 636

Dates Applicable

1-25 May 1-31 Oct

1-5 Jul 8-24 Sep

15 Jul-17 Aug

A SELECTION OF GUIDE PRICES (between 1 Nov 15-31 Oct 16) per person in £ with flights from Stansted. For flight information see page 72. Other dates of travel and single occupancy will be quoted with pleasure. To make a booking see page 73.

ADDED VALUE!

Stay 8 pay 7 for stays 1 Jan-31 Oct 16, saving from £24 per person.

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SIRACUSA & BAROQUE SOUTH EAST SICILY |

LA DIMORA DI PIAZZA CARMINE RAGUSA ★ ★ ★

Boasting the most wonderful views over the breathtaking UNESCO village of Ibla di Ragusa, the historic centre of Ragusa, La Dimora di Piazza Carmine is a delightful, small and friendly bed and breakfast. Situated in the old historic part of Ragusa and immersed in its baroque environment, this is a lovely base from which to discover one of South East Sicily’s finest jewels. Ragusa is built on a wide limestone hill between two deep valleys and has virtually no level walking. A frequent public bus connects Ibla di Ragusa with Ragusa Superiore.

ROOMS La Dimora has just nine bedrooms, all of which are designed and furnished in a contemporary style, providing a welcome contrast with the surrounding historic architecture. All rooms have flat screen TV, air-conditioning, telephone, mini-bar and safe. Bathrooms are modern and spacious with a lovely shower and hairdryer.

Classic rooms are located on the ground floor, whilst superior rooms also have a small balcony and are situated on the first and second floor. Rooms on the second floor have a superb view of Ragusa Ibla from their small balcony. There is also a junior suite on the third floor with a large private terrace and breathtaking views. Guests staying in the junior suite can have breakfast served on their own terrace – what a treat!

LIVING Guests are made to feel very welcome in this cosy yet modern B&B, which offers a bright breakfast room that spills out on to an outdoor terrace where one can enjoy the delights of home-made Sicilian delicacies. La Dimora’s location, right in the heart of historic Ragusa and in front of the Old Sanctuary ensures a full immersion in local culture and flavour! The ‘Ragusani’, as the locals are known, are extremely hospitable and guests will enjoy evenings out at some of the superb local trattorias, which are within easy walking distance of this charming guest house. Half board can be taken at Giro di Vite, the hotel’s own trattoria, a 10 minute walk away.

The UNESCO listed gem of Ibla is a 20 minute downhill walk away and here you will find a myriad of fascinating churches to visit and stunning baroque architecture to admire.

Watch the world go by from the pavement cafés of the delightful piazzas and after a long day out perhaps relax on La Dimora’s outdoor terrace with a chilled glass of ‘inzolia’ (Sicilian white wine) as the sun turns the sky to warm shades of red.

We recommend hiring a car for a few days to explore this fascinating area, please ask us.

Transfer time from Comiso airport – approx. 40 minutes.

Transfer time from Catania airport – approx. two hours.

P RIC ING i n Cl assic Doub l e Room , BB Wi nt er

Low

Mid

High

3 Nts 7 Nts

297 422

319 446

352 477

Dates Applicable

1 Nov-31 Jan

1 Feb-31 Mar

1-27 Apr

Su mmer

Low

Mid

High

Peak

3 Nts 7 Nts

289 409

315 434

377 496

438 557

Dates Applicable

1-31 Oct

1-30 Sep

1 May-30 Jun

1 Jul-31 Aug

A SELECTION OF GUIDE PRICES (between 1 Nov 15-31 Oct 16) per person in £ with from Stansted. Superior room from £9 per person per night. For flight information see page 72. Other dates of travel, room types and single occupancy will be quoted with pleasure. To make a booking see page 73.

ADDED VALUE!

Stays started and completed between 24 Dec 15-31 Oct 16: Book by 30 Apr 16 and save from £29 per person per week OR Stay 6 pay 5 (or 8 for 6), saving at least £27 per person.

ASK YOUR AGENT TO RING PRESTIGE HOLIDAYS 01425 480 400

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WESTERN SICILY Undiscovered and exotic … the authentic Sicily.

Sicily’s enchanting capital, Palermo, is closer to North Africa than the Italian mainland – no wonder that this part of the island has the most African of landscapes and a really exotic feel to it, palm trees, souk-style markets, Moorish ‘bagli’ (farmhouses) and wide stretches of beautiful sandy beaches backed by a dramatic coastline.

Untrodden by mass tourism the fascinating West hosts an impressive collection of ancient Greek and Phoenician sites, such as Segesta, Agrigento, Selinunte and the island of Mozia. Probably the most breathtaking section of Sicily’s coastline lies in the North West; starting from the mysterious fishing town of Castellammare – it snakes its way along the pristine Zingaro Marine Reserve, through to San Vito and towering Mount San Giuliano dominated by the hilltop medieval gem of Erice. A cable car connects Erice with the bustling town of Trapani, whose offshore Egadi Islands represent the ultimate in a superb off the beaten track sea and sun experience!

You really are spoilt for choice for places to visit, but if all you want to do is simply relax on a beautiful beach then look no further than the white sands of laid back San Vito Lo Capo or the wide golden expanse of beach at Selinunte.

The wild and beautiful South West coast is more reminiscent of a pacific one with long, wide stretches of sand, wind and waves whilst

Trapani

Palermo

Agrigento

Caltanissetta

San Vito Lo Capo Palermo Castellammare Del Golfo

Trapani

Segesta Marsala Mazara the inviting North West shoreline has a more Mediterranean feel, with small rocky inlets and clear calm waters. For the most memorable sunset ever, gaze from your balcony at Baglio Oneto as the sun’s red ball of fire sinks below the beckoning Egadi Islands.

Food and wine lovers will find Western Sicily sublime. Fresh seafood abounds, with Mazara del Vallo boasting Italy’s largest fishing fleet.

Feast on the local specialities, fish cous cous (the Ghibli ‘s restaurant is perhaps the best in San Vito) or pasta ‘al nero di seppie’ (squid ink). Grab a ‘cassatella’ (pastry filled with warm ricotta) or a superb gelato at Bar ’La Sorgente’ in Castellammare. Browse the food markets

Selinunte

Menfi Sciacca Agrigento

of Palermo snacking on the freshest fare, from ‘pane panelle’ (fried chick peas in a sesame bun) to ‘arancini’ (rice balls with melted mozzarella).

Wherever you decide to base yourself in the West distances are easily covered by car with a little trafficked and well planned motorway network, connecting the North, West and South coasts.

Monte Cofano

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’S PAUL

TIPS

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WESTERN SICILY SICILY |

LA FORESTERIA PLANETA NEAR MENFI, AGRITURISMO ★ ★ ★ ★

Recently created by Sicily’s most celebrated wine producers, the Planeta family, this gorgeous dwelling is located in an elevated position overlooking vineyards and the unspoilt South West coast of the island. It offers stunning views, excellent food and wines and a high standard of boutique style accommodation providing an ideal base to relax and visit the many sights of Western Sicily.

ROOMS The 14 very comfortable and warmly furnished rooms all spill out onto their own terraces with breathtaking views towards the coast. Facilities include shower, hairdryer, bathrobes and slippers, air-conditioning, mini-bar, satellite TV, iPod dock speakers, tea and coffee making facilities, Wi-fi and pool towels. Classic rooms have a double bed, Superior rooms two queen sized beds whilst Deluxe rooms are larger with two queen sized beds and two terraces.

LIVING As you enter the reception area and comfortable lounge of La Foresteria the history of Planeta begins to unfold, pictures depicting the evolution of this well known wine family,

SELF -DRIVE combined with traditional leather sofas and antique pieces create a warm and welcoming atmosphere. This leads out to a splendid terrace, where sunbeds are gathered around a delightful infinity pool. There is even a fitness area and Turkish bath.

On the lower level the superb open plan kitchen and Planeta chef Angelo beckons, offering top class cooking courses. This area leads into the dining room, where a large oak table is the setting of many an excellent meal and wine tasting, affording superb views over the countryside. An à la carte menu is available between Jun-Sep. It’s just a five minute drive to the lovely unspoilt sandy beach at Porto Palo, where the hotel has its own beach club, perfect for swimming and sun bathing – treat yourself to a superb seafood meal at Vittorio’s!

Its proximity to the Greek temples at Selinunte and easy access to most of Western Sicily’s attractions makes La Foresteria a great choice for ‘foodies’ looking for top class accommodation and who enjoy the independence to explore the area by car.

We include an economy hire car in our prices.

Driving time from Palermo and Trapani airports – approx. one hour 30 minutes.

PRICING i n Cl assic Room, Ter race, BB Wint er

Low

3 Nts 7 Nts

382 677

HOTEL CLOSED

414 773

Dates Applicable

1 Feb-24 Apr

1 Dec-31 Jan

29-30 Apr

Su mmer

Low

Mid

High

Peak

3 Nts 7 Nts

417 759

473 815

564 978

654 1072

Dates Applicable

1 May-24 Jun

1-25 Oct

1-24 Sep

12 Jul-17 Aug

High

A SELECTION OF GUIDE PRICES (between 1-30 Nov 15 & 1 Feb-31 Oct 16) per person in £ with flights from Gatwick.

Superior room from £7 per person per night. Half board from £43 per person per night. For flight information see page 72.

Other dates of travel, room types and single occupancy will be quoted with pleasure. To make a booking see page 73.

ADDED VALUE!

Book by 31 Mar 16 for holidays departing from 1 Feb 16 to save at least £37 per person per week. OR Stay 4 pay 3, saving at least £53 per person for holidays started and completed between 1 Feb-30 Apr 16. Stay 3 nights or more and save at least £20 per person per stay for holidays started and completed between 1 May-31 Oct 16.

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WESTERN SICILY SICILY |

MANDRANOVA PALMA DI MONTECHIARO NEAR AGRIGENTO,AGRITURISMO Located in the Sicilian countryside and just 20 minutes’ drive from the Valley of the Temples at Agrigento, Mandranova is a delightful working olive oil farm offering ‘agriturismo’ run by the friendly owners, Giuseppe and Sylvia. Here the atmosphere is very much one of staying as a home guest with bags of informality, coupled with stylish accommodation and delicious food.

Given Mandranova’s proximity to the main route along the southern coast, it provides an excellent base to visit the Valley of the Temples in nearby Agrigento, the Roman Villa in Piazza Armerina and the ceramics of Caltagirone.

ROOMS Mandranova has a total of 15 rooms split between three buildings all of which have been stylishly designed using local materials and have either double or twin beds, shower, hairdryer and air-conditioning. Suites also offer bathrobes, flat screen satellite TV and are more spacious.

SELF -DRIVE

LIVING The main ‘Casale’ (country dwelling) houses the attractive restaurant where Sylvia prepares sumptuous evening meals using locally produced Sicilian fare. There is also a comfortable lounge and reading/sitting areas, where guests will often gather for a drink and a chat before dinner. There is a large terrace with tables and chairs, extending to the attractive grounds with generous olive groves and a small swimming pool.

The owners are proud to show their guests around the olive oil farm and explain the production process and Sylvia will also be pleased to organise ‘let’s cook together’ sessions before dinner (at a charge).

Mandranova is best suited to independent travellers on a multi-centre holiday, who want to relax and experience informal life in a Sicilian ‘guest house’ style environment for a few days. The nearest town, Palma di Montechiaro, is under a ten minute drive whilst some lovely beaches and the coast are just around 20 to 25 minutes away. We include an economy hire car to give guests the freedom to explore.

Driving time from Catania airport – approx. two hours 30 minutes.

Also available from Comiso and Palermo airports.

PRICING i n Tw in/D oubl e Room, BB Wint er

Low

Mid

High

3 Nts 7 Nts

357 596

409 719

445 725

Dates Applicable

15-16 Mar

23-27 Mar

3-30 Apr

Su mmer

Low

Mid

High

3 Nts 7 Nts

435 699

457 752

527 827

Dates Applicable

1 May-24 Jun

1-5 Jul 8 Sep-25 Oct

15 Jul-17 Aug

A SELECTION OF GUIDE PRICES (between 15 Mar 16-31 Oct 16) per person in £ with flights from Gatwick. Suite from £15 per person per night. Half board from £26 per person per night. For flight information see page 72. Other dates of travel, room types and single occupancy will be quoted with pleasure. To make a booking see page 73.

ADDED VALUE!

Enjoy a complimentary olive oil tasting during dinner.

ASK YOUR AGENT TO RING PRESTIGE HOLIDAYS 01425 480 400

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WESTERN SICILY SICILY |

COLLEVERDE PARK HOTEL AGRIGENTO ★ ★ ★ ★

Situated just 3 kms south of Agrigento’s town centre and close to the majestic Greek archaeological site of the Valley of Temples, the Colleverde is a pleasant and comfortable hotel adorned in typical Sicilian style with friendly, attentive service and set in lovely luxuriant gardens overlooking Akragas.

ROOMS All 47 bedrooms are equipped with bath or shower, hairdryer, safe, mini-bar, satellite TV, air-conditioning and Wi-fi. Rooms vary in size with some facing towards the town, whilst others enjoy a view across the valley to the Greek temples. Family rooms with extra beds are also available on request.

LIVING As soon as you enter the Colleverde there is a feeling of efficiency yet friendliness coupled with personal attention. Relax in one of the lovely public areas and comfortable lounges which are proud to show off original Sicilian antique works of art, or make your way through delightful gardens to the hotel’s inviting terraces where you can sip a cool aperitif and admire the setting of the sun behind the temple of Concordia.

SELF -DRIVE Excellent and sumptuous Sicilian cuisine is freshly prepared and served up by the hotel’s ever attentive maitre d’ and waiting staff in the Colleverde’s attractive restaurant, where an extensive Sicilian buffet can also be enjoyed in the mornings. During warmer months evening meals are occasionally savoured al fresco on the hotel’s alluring terraces boasting an enchanting view of the illuminated temples at night … the height of romance!

The inviting Colleverde makes an ideal base to visit the Valley of the Temples but also the fishing town of Sciacca, the Greek sites at Selinunte and Eraclea Minoa, plus some of the stunning south coast beaches such as the ‘Scala dei Turchi’ are all within relatively easy reach. For guests’ enjoyment we include an economy hire car in our prices.

Driving time from Catania and Comiso airports – approx. two hours.

Driving time from Palermo and Trapani airports – approx. two hours 30 minutes.

P RICING in Cl assi c Roo m, BB Wint er

Low

Mid

High

3 Nts 7 Nts

316 499

329 532

396 611

Dates Applicable

1 Nov-25 Dec 3 Jan-9 Mar

16-25 Mar

1-30 Apr

Summ er

Low

Mid

High

Peak

3 Nts 7 Nts

368 545

388 592

435 612

455 659

Dates Applicable

1-14 Jul

1 May-24 Jun 8 Sep-9 Oct

15-25 Jul

1-7 Sep

A SELECTION OF GUIDE PRICES (between 1 Nov 15-31 Oct 16) per person in £ with flights from Gatwick. Superior room from £9 per person per night. Half Board from £22 per person per night. For flight information see page 72. Other dates of travel, room types and single occupancy will be quoted with pleasure. To make a booking see page 73.

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WESTERN SICILY SICILY |

HOTEL BAGLIO ONETO NEAR MARSALA ★ ★ ★ ★

Located on a hillside surrounded by vineyards with wonderful views of the Egadi Islands this is a lovingly restored ‘baglio’ – an authentic Moorish style farmhouse – yet with all the facilities and services of a good hotel.

Producing its own local wines and olive oil the Baglio Oneto boasts style and elegance combined with Sicilian authenticity. Once the domain of a powerful baron, the feudal, fortified wings of this delightful hotel enclose a pleasant courtyard, where breakfast and meals are served during the summer months.

Whether you decide to simply relax by the pool and enjoy good food and wine with friendly service or explore the nearby treasures of Western Sicily the Baglio Oneto provides an ideal base.

ROOMS 48 well appointed and elegant rooms with air-conditioning (approx. Jun-Sep), twin or double beds, ensuite bathroom with bath, hairdryer, satellite TV, Wi-fi, safe and minibar. Our superior rooms have tea and coffee making facilities, a balcony or terrace and enjoy a view towards the sea and Egadi Islands in the distance or across the surrounding countryside, whilst also overlooking the pool area. Deluxe rooms also offer bathrobes and slippers.

SELF -DRIVE LIVING Baglio Oneto’s elevated position affords stunning views over Sicily’s west coast and the Egadi Islands, with the most memorable sunsets! There’s an inviting outdoor freshwater pool and terrace area with sunbeds where you can relax and enjoy these views.

The hotel’s elegant restaurant La Calandra serves up really high quality local produce and during the summer months spills out onto the Baglio’s courtyard – a truly delightful setting for a special meal!

Surrounding the courtyard are a number of very comfortable and elegant lounges and a bar area where you can relax, read or enjoy a cool glass of limonata.

The authentic and historic wine cellar beckons and here you can taste some of the best locally produced wines, such as Marsala itself, which was originally developed by British merchants in the 1800’s.

We include an economy hire car (airport to airport) for greater flexibility, freedom and independence to explore. Close by you can visit the lovely baroque town of Trapani, the hilltop Arabic town of Erice, the Greek temple at Segesta, the Egadi Islands or take your pick from some of the lovely beaches in Western Sicily. This is a perfect choice for those who would like to discover the delights of Western Sicily from a comfortable and peaceful base.

Driving time from Trapani airport – approx. 20 minutes.

Driving time from Palermo airport – approx. one hour 15 minutes.

P RICING i n Cl assic Room, BB Low

Mid

High

Peak

7 Nts 10 Nts

479 619

534 679

759 939

823 1031

Dates Applicable

1 May-22 May

1-21 Jun 1-31 Oct

12-22 Jul

1-12 Aug

A SELECTION OF GUIDE PRICES (between 21 Mar-31 Oct 16) per person in £ with flights from Gatwick. Superior room from £5 per person per night. Half board from £22 per person per night. For flight information see page 72. Other dates of travel, room types and single occupancy will be quoted with pleasure. To make a booking see page 73.

ADDED VALUE!

Book by 31 March 16 save at least £30 per person per week OR Book after 1 Apr and at least 30 days prior to arrival and stay 5 pay 4, saving at least £28 per person.

ASK YOUR AGENT TO RING PRESTIGE HOLIDAYS 01425 480 400

21

WESTERN SICILY SICILY |

VERDURA RESORT – A ROCCO FORTE HOTEL NEAR SCIACCA ★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Located on the beautiful South-West coast of Sicily this stylish and contemporary selfcontained resort offers a unique holiday experience for both couples and families alike.

Set within an impressive site of 570 acres and boasting stupendous seaviews from every angle, Verdura Resort delivers a superb array of facilities and excellent service, catering for both those who seek pure relaxation and for the more active.

ROOMS All 203 bedrooms (of which 50 are Suites) are designed in a contemporary yet warm fashion and are located either on the ground or first floor due to the low lying design of the resort. Spacious, and facing directly towards the sea, Deluxe rooms (photo below right), larger Junior Suites (photo below left) and Grand Suites boast well appointed bathrooms with separate shower, hairdryer, bathrobes and slippers, plus airconditioning, satellite TV, mini-bar, safe and Wi-fi. Inter-connecting rooms and suites are available for families. Suites also enjoy the Rocco Forte Suite Experience plus beach towels and DVD/CD player.

LIVING This exciting open-plan and contemporary resort combines the very best of relaxation, sport and spa in an idyllic setting, where the sensation of tranquillity and space pervades.

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SELF -DRIVE

Take a refreshing dip in the fabulous infinity pool located in the heart of the resort, or continue down to the umbrellas and sunbeds on the private beach, where you can try your hand at one of the many watersports on offer (seasonal). For more information see opposite.

The dining options at Verdura are exceptional, with a variety of bars throughout the resort and four restaurants, you really are spoilt for choice! Relax over a Sicilian buffet breakfast at the informal Buon Giorno restaurant or treat yourself to a romantic candlelit dinner at Zagara (photo opposite) where you can enjoy the finest fresh Mediterranean produce in an exclusive and intimate atmosphere.

Should you decide to drag yourself away from this terrific resort you are ideally placed to visit some of Sicily’s foremost attractions, such as the Greek temples at Selinunte and Agrigento or the authentic fishing town and ceramics centre of nearby Sciacca.

We include an economy hire car in our prices so you can explore the local area and beyond.

Driving time from Palermo and Trapani airports – approx. one hour 20 minutes.

Driving time from Catania and Comiso airports – approx. two hours and 30 minutes.

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Just a stone’s throw from this hub of activity lies a true oasis of peace and relaxation.

Verdura Spa incorporates Sebastian Kneipp’s health-promoting concepts with five health-focussed programmes – Fit, Slim, Detox, Anti-Age and Relax. Verdura Spa tempts you with an eclectic mix of treatments, Hammam, lap pool, gym with cutting edge equipment and four Thalassotherapy pools. A range of rituals are offered with signature treatments inspired by products actually grown at Verdura Resort.

SICILY |

At the Sunball Tennis Academy players of all ages and abilities are welcome and individual or group lessons can easily be arranged. The Academy also hosts special tennis camps and special events featuring famous ex-professional players. For young football enthusiasts in July and August, guests aged 5-16 years can take part in the hotel’s Juventus Training Camp when professional Juventus coaches are on hand to share their

experience and give advice. Boasting a variety of activities the Verdura Kids Club for children aged 4-12 years and Verdura Teenagers Club (aged 13-19 years) will ensure the happiness of the younger members of your family! Let us confirm dates of operation for you.

WESTERN SICILY

…. SPORTS, ACADEMIES & SPA AT VERDURA RESORT For sports enthusiasts there is a choice of two championship 18-hole golf courses and a 9-hole course, a football pitch and six floodlit clay tennis courts. Alternatively explore the hotel’s cycle trails or for lovers of food the hotel offers a wide range of culinary experiences, such as learning to cook authentic Sicilian dishes or try your hand at tasting local wines.

ADDED VALUE!

Book 100 days prior to arrival and save at least £56 per person per week from 4 Jan 16. Stay 3 nights or more between 4 Jan-23 Mar and save at least £20 per person per night. Stay 4 nights or more between 24 Mar-18 Jul & 27 Aug-31 Oct and save at least £14 per person per night. Stay 7 nights or more between 19 Jul-26 Aug and save at least £35 per person per night. Receive a discount for stays of 14 nights or more from 4 Jan 16. OR 2nd room discounts available for children under 18 years, please ask for a quote. OR Stay 7 nights or longer and receive either 4 or 5 complimentary green fees per person. OR Stay 4 nights or longer and receive 2 complimentary green fees per person 4 Jan-18 Jul & 27 Aug-31 Oct 16 Gala meals over Christmas and New Year are payable locally.

P RICING in D eluxe Twi n/D oub l e Room, Bal con y, BB Wint er

Low

Mid

High

Peak

7 Nts 10 Nts

879 1189

959 1304

995 1349

1296 1649

Dates Applicable

4 Jan-26 Feb

14 Nov-19 Dec

7-14 Mar 31 Mar-21 Apr

23-24 Mar

Summ er

Low

Mid

High

Peak

7 Nts 10 Nts

1289 1775

1383 1867

2210 3012

2408 3295

Dates Applicable

1 May-21 Jun

4-30 Sep

18-27 Jul

6-10 Aug

A SELECTION OF GUIDE PRICES (between 1 Nov 15-31 Oct 16) per person in £ with flights from Gatwick. Superior deluxe from £5 per person per night. Half board from £43 per person per night. For flight information see page 72. Other dates of travel, room types and single occupancy will be quoted with pleasure. To make a booking see page 73.

ASK YOUR AGENT TO RING PRESTIGE HOLIDAYS 01425 480 400

23

SAN VITO LO CAPO Crystal clear sea and white sands in lovely laid back beach resort.

San Vito Lo Capo Palermo Segesta Trapani

Castellammare Del Golfo

Extremely popular with the Italians and only just beginning to be known outside Italy, San Vito Lo Capo boasts what is without doubt Sicily’s best beach, a huge expanse of white sand lapped by crystal clear azure waters and backed by an impressive landscape reminiscent of Rio’s Sugarloaf mountain. But

this is not your run of the mill beach resort, this is an authentic western Sicilian, almost ‘spaghetti western’ style beach town, with small whitewashed buildings, friendly locals and a very relaxed laid back atmosphere.

Located within easy reach of the pristine Zingaro Marine Reserve, San Vito is comprised of a myriad of small family run hotels (no high rise here!), intermingled with street front cafés and superb seafood eateries. True to its Arabic roots San Vito is famed for cous cous, hosting the international Cous Cous Festival every year in September. Eating out in San Vito is an absolute delight (especially for fish and seafood lovers) and there is a great variety of restaurants at very reasonable prices. Life here is relaxed and low key, very much a ‘no shoes no news’ style resort with a conspicuous lack of discotheques or other

noisy nightlife. Should you wish to hire a car and explore the delightful area of Western Sicily, there are a number of attractions at your fingertips including the beguiling hilltop town of Erice, the bustling centre of Trapani, with its lovely offshore Egadi Islands and the Greek temples at Segesta and Selinunte.

The enchanting resort of San Vito provides a fabulous holiday for those looking for relaxation in a stunning beachfront location laced with Sicilian authenticity, informality and superb seafood! This is one of Sicily’s best kept secrets, be there before the word gets out and whilst a car is not essential for a stay here it is recommended should you wish to explore this fascinating region of Western Sicily. Book early, San Vito gets booked up quickly, particularly for July and August.

San Vito Lo Capo

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SAN VITO LO CAPO SICILY |

IPS

’S T PAUL

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SAN VITO LO CAPO SICILY |

HOTEL ALABA

HOTEL CAPO SAN VITO

SAN VITO LO CAPO ★ ★ ★

SAN VITO LO CAPO ★ ★ ★ ★

This ‘design’ B&B is a little gem of a property with high-end stylish and contemporary furnishings, and is located just a stone’s throw from Sicily’s best beach – the white sands and clear blue waters of San Vito Lo Capo.

This is an ideal option for couples who prefer to be independent and take advantage of the many fantastic restaurants San Vito has to offer (a seafood lover’s dream come true!) or to use as a base to explore the delights of Western Sicily.

ROOMS The Alaba has just 11 bedrooms furnished all in cream, with a contemporary design with shower, hairdryer, telephone, air-conditioning, flat screen TV and mini-bar. Comfort rooms are situated on the ground floor and superior rooms and larger junior suites have balconies and are situated on the first floor of the hotel.

LIVING There is a bar and sitting area within the ultra contemporary open-plan reception and hallway, which leads out onto a pleasant terrace with tables and chairs, where buffet breakfast is served.

A few minutes’ walk takes you down to the stunning beach where you can hire sunbeds and umbrellas.

The Alaba benefits from a central location with easy access to bars, shops and San Vito’s vibrant restaurant life. Make sure you try the town’s speciality dessert, ‘caldo freddo’, a delicious mix of hot and cold, consisting of ice creams and sweet sauces.

The Alaba allows one to enjoy the freedom to eat out and to be able to just relax on one of Sicily’s best beaches, but at the same time have the choice to go out and explore (by car) the alluring sights and attractions of Western Sicily.

Transfer time from Trapani airport – approx. one hour 15 minutes.

Transfer time from Palermo airport – approx. one hour 30 minutes.

Situated directly on what has to be Sicily’s best sandy beach and just a stone’s throw from both the clear azure waters of the Mediterranean and the resort centre, the Capo San Vito justifiably boasts a unique location. This lovely boutique style hotel is ideal for those looking for a relaxing beach holiday in a laid back and very Sicilian resort, with plenty of facilities within walking distance and easy access by car to the attractions of Western Sicily.

ROOMS All 35 bedrooms are designed in warm colours with dark wood furnishings, reflecting the owner’s passion and travels to South-East Asia. There are three room categories, deluxe, deluxe with seaview and junior suite, all have shower, air-conditioning, hairdryer, safe, telephone, mini-bar and Wi-fi. Junior suites are larger with two separate sleeping areas, one bedroom with double bed and the other with a large single sofa bed, ideal for two children.

LIVING This lovely beach property makes the best of its fabulous location, both the attractive restaurant and bar areas spill out onto terraces directly adjoining the fine white sands of San Vito, allowing you to ‘live’ this exotic experience without leaving your hotel!

Beautiful wood carvings and tapestries from different corners of the world adorn the public areas giving an almost colonial feel to this property. Relax and sip a chilled fresh orange juice from the gardens overlooking the beach and enjoy some fine dining in ‘Jacaranda’, the hotel’s elegant restaurant. Should you wish to revitalise yourself look no further than the calming wellness centre, which offers sauna and various beauty treatments and massages.

San Vito’s centre with its unique ‘Arabic’ charm and plethora of seafood eateries, bars and cafés is at your fingertips as is the lovely safe bathing at this fascinating resort’s stunning beach.

Transfer time from Trapani airport – approx. one hour 15 minutes.

Transfer time from Palermo airport – approx. one hour 30 minutes.

P RICING in D eluxe Twi n/Doub l e Room, BB/HB*

PRICING in C omfort Room , BB Low

Mid

High

Peak

7 Nts 10 Nts

444 529

548 679

782 936

898 1090

Dates Applicable

1-18 May

11-15 Jun

1-20 Jul

30 Jul-11 Aug

A SELECTION OF GUIDE PRICES (between 23 Mar 16-31 Oct 16) per person in £ with flights from Gatwick. Superior room with balcony from £5 per person per night. For flight information see page 72. Other dates of travel, room types and single occupancy will be quoted with pleasure. To make a booking see page 73.

ADDED VALUE!

Hotel guests receive a small discount when hiring 2 sunbeds and an umbrella on the beach.

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Low

Mid

High

Peak

7 Nts 10 Nts

646 818

1049 1394

1226 1647

1405 1826

Dates Applicable

2-11 May

21 May-1 Jun

11-30 Jun

1 Jul-31 Aug

A SELECTION OF GUIDE PRICES (between 25 Mar 16-31 Oct 16) per person in £ with flights from Gatwick. Deluxe Twin or Double with seaview from £17 per person per night.*Half board included between 23 Apr-1 May & 21 May-24 Sep, other periods half board from £27 per person per night. For flight information see page 72. Other dates of travel, room types and single occupancy will be quoted with pleasure. To make a booking see page 73.

ADDED VALUE!

Complimentary umbrella and sunbeds on the beautiful beach for guests booking a junior suite.

BOOK ONLINE AT WWW.PRESTIGEHOLIDAYS.CO.UK/SICILY

SAN VITO LO CAPO SICILY |

HOTEL GHIBLI SAN VITO LO CAPO ★ ★ ★

The family run Ghibli is a gem of a little boutique hotel located just a few minutes’ walk from what has to be Sicily’s best beach, boasting clear azure waters and white sands. San Vito is a friendly, laid back beach town, with small family run hotels and low whitewashed buildings – it has a real Arabic and exotic feel to it and is home to the famous international Cous Cous Festival. This is a real chill out destination, but also a great base to visit some of Western Sicily’s treasures.

ROOMS The 17 double rooms on two floors are furnished in a pretty boutique style, all with safe, hairdryer, mini-bar, satellite TV, Wi-fi and shower. Some double rooms also have a small balcony, at a supplement. Family rooms are available on request.

LIVING There is a delightful courtyard-garden where buffet breakfast is served – much of the produce is home-made in the hotel, with Sicilian delicacies galore. Matteo and his brother are justifiably proud of their award winning ‘Profumo di Cous Cous’ restaurant, serving up some of the best seafood dishes in San Vito and probably the best cous cous (made with fish) in the resort.

The Ghibli (meaning ‘hot wind’ in Arabic) has a small sitting/TV area, bar and comfy chairs and tables at the front of the hotel whilst on the hotel’s top floor you can indulge in the lovely wellness centre, which boasts a Turkish bath, sauna and Jacuzzi. Umbrellas and sunbeds are included for hotel guests at no extra charge (01 May-30 Sep).

The Zingaro Marine Reserve, which can be explored on foot or by boat, is easily reached by car, a shuttle service operates between the Resort and the Reserve in Jun-Sep. Aside from the lively shops and restaurants of San Vito you are also within easy striking distance of the delightful attractions of Western Sicily, such as Erice, Trapani, Segesta and Scopello, the hotel can arrange excursions to these attractions between Jun-Sep. This is a very popular hotel in high season and we recommend early booking.

Transfer time from Trapani airport – approx. one hour 15 minutes.

Transfer time from Palermo airport – approx. one hour 30 minutes.

P RIC ING i n Stand ar d D oub le Room, BB Win te r

Low

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7 Nts 10 Nts

458 549

488 593

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15 Mar-13 Apr

24-30 Apr

Sum mer

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7 Nts 10 Nts

475 574

646 818

886 1085

939 1163

Dates Applicable

1-22 May

11-30 Jun

16-27 Jul 20-22 Aug

6-10 Aug

A SELECTION OF GUIDE PRICES (between 18 Mar 16-31 Oct 16) per person in £ with flights from Gatwick. Double with balcony from £7 per person per night. Half board from £21 per person per night. For flight information see page 72. Other dates of travel, room types and single occupancy will be quoted with pleasure. To make a booking see page 73.

ADDED VALUE!

Stay 7 nights or more and receive a two hour complimentary wellness package.

Or stay 7 nights or more and save at least £27 per person per week for holidays started and completed between 1 Apr-31 May & 1-31 Oct.

ASK YOUR AGENT TO RING PRESTIGE HOLIDAYS 01425 480 400

27

CASTELLAMMARE DEL GOLFO Authentic fishing town capturing the essence of Western Sicily San Vito Lo Capo Palermo Segesta Trapani

Castellammare Del Golfo

Nestled on Sicily’s impressive north western coastline, beguiling Castellammare exudes all the flavour and character of a typically traditional Sicilian town. Once a small fishing village thriving from the island’s booming tuna industry, this fascinating centre allows visitors an insight into the ‘real Sicily’. Winding alleyways and streets bustling with the cries of street sellers lead you down to the gorgeous harbour, where blue and yellow fishing boats still bob on their moorings and local fishermen

’S PAUL

supply their wares to the many seafood restaurants lining the waterfront. Here, you can sample true Western Sicilian cuisine at reasonable prices, ranging from ‘spaghetti ai ricci’ (pasta with sea urchins) to Arabic fish cous cous … a delightful reminder of Sicily’s colonial past.

Castellammare is located at the start of what has to be the most beautiful and dramatic coastline in the whole of Sicily.

Steep mountains plunge from here down to the deep blue Mediterranean which carves its way along the gorgeous Zingaro Marine Reserve, home to many rare plant and animal species. This enchanting coastline can only be accessed on foot or by boat (seasonal trips from Castellammare) and offers one of the finest coastal walks in Europe, starting about 2 kms after the quaint hamlet of Scopello with its historic tuna fishery and ending up in the lovely beach resort of San Vito Lo Capo.

There are numerous little charming coves and

beaches along the way, boasting crystal clear waters and superb snorkelling (scuba diving is also available, we have the details).

An excellent location for touring, with close proximity to the motorway, Castellammare is ideally placed for visiting the Doric Greek temple and amphitheatre at Segesta, the medieval hilltop town of Erice, the baroque centre of Trapani, the Greek ruins at Selinunte plus of course Sicily’s fascinating capital city, Palermo. For beach lovers just ten minutes away lies the wide sandy sweeping bay of Castellammare, with the amazing white sands and azure waters of San Vito Lo Capo easily reached by car.

Castellammare is best suited to those who are looking to experience and discover the ‘real’ Sicily, and who enjoy a mixture of culture and relaxation, topped by some wonderful gastronomic experiences! Whilst not essential, a car is highly recommended in order to take advantage of this magnificent region of Sicily.

TIPS

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CASTELLAMMARE DEL GOLFO SICILY |

HOTEL CALA MARINA CASTELLAMMARE DEL GOLFO ★ ★ ★

Located on the harbour front overlooking the azure waters and picturesque bay of the authentic Sicilian fishing town of Castellammare del Golfo, the Cala Marina is a charming, small and friendly hotel. Owned and run by Nicola and Giusy this is a delightful bed and breakfast with just 14 rooms and it is only a few minutes’ walk to the shops, bars and restaurants of Castellammare.

This area of Sicily is still largely unspoilt by tourism and staying in the centre of this fascinating town really gives you an insight into local Sicilian life. Enjoy the heady mix of superb coastline, inspiring walks, Greek temples, beaches and gastronomy – especially the excellent seafood – it has it all!

ROOMS 14 well appointed rooms with balcony and ensuite facilities including shower, hairdryer, safe, iron (available on request), mini-bar, satellite TV and Wi-fi. Superior rooms have partial seaview whilst three Executive rooms have front sea and harbour view.

LIVING The hotel is situated on the seafront, lined with excellent fish restaurants. As there is no restaurant at the hotel, if you choose the half board option, the hotel has a special arrangement to enable you to enjoy dinner in one of these restaurants.

The hotel also organises (at a small charge) a shuttle bus to the nearby sandy beach ‘Playa’ where there are sunbeds and umbrellas, as swimming is prohibited in the harbour area in front of the hotel. Nearby the stunning marine reserve ‘Lo Zingaro’ boasts the finest coastal walk in Sicily plus a number of lovely coves with excellent snorkelling and rare plants and birdlife abound. Backed by dramatic hills this is considered by many to be the most attractive section of coast on the entire island.

The hotel can organise boat trips from Castellammare along the marine nature reserve and other activities such as trekking and scuba diving. Nearby Segesta with its haunting Greek temple beckons whilst the capital Palermo is a short train ride away.

This is a perfect holiday for those looking to sample a flavour of the real Sicily and who enjoy discovering the vast array of local attractions on their own. Don’t forget to pop into Bar ‘La Sorgente’ for the best ‘gelato con brioche’ (ice cream in a sweet bun) in Sicily and their famed ‘cassatelle’ (pastry filled with sweet ricotta)!

A car is highly recommended in order to take advantage of Western Sicily’s attractions such as Erice, San Vito, Selinunte or the Greek temple at Segesta.

Transfer time from Palermo airport – approx. 40 minutes.

Transfer time from Trapani airport – approx. 50 minutes.

P RICING i n Super i or Room, Si de Seavi ew, Bal cony, BB Low

Mid

High

Peak

7 Nts 10 Nts

424 514

517 607

628 728

699 833

Dates Applicable

1 May-21 Jun

1-21 Sep

1-22 Jul

1-22 Aug

A SELECTION OF GUIDE PRICES (between 10 Mar 16-31 Oct 16) per person in £ with flights from Gatwick. Executive room from £2 per person per night. Half board from £16 per person per night. For flight information see page 72. Other dates of travel, and single occupancy will be quoted with pleasure. To make a booking see page 73.

ADDED VALUE!

Stay 7 pay 6 for holidays started and completed between 1 Mar-30 Apr 16 and 1-31 Oct 16 saving at least £26 per person. Fruit in room on arrival.

ASK YOUR AGENT TO RING PRESTIGE HOLIDAYS 01425 480 400

29

CASTELLAMMARE DEL GOLFO SICILY |

HOTEL AL MADARIG CASTELLAMMARE DEL GOLFO ★ ★ ★

Overlooking a wide piazza and the azure Mediterranean sea the Al Madarig stands in a convenient position right in the heart of Castellammare’s historic centre and close to both the Arabic-Norman castle and the charismatic harbour side. This charming low rise property provides an ideal base to experience local life in this fascinating Sicilian fishing town and is ideally located to visit the delights of Western Sicily.

ROOMS The 38 well appointed rooms either face the piazza and sea (side seaview rooms with balcony) or the internal courtyard (standard rooms without balcony). Comfortably furnished with warm colours all rooms have a safe, hairdryer, mini-bar, satellite TV, Wi-fi and shower (only a few have bath).

LIVING With a spacious and bright reception area and welcoming bar, first impressions are very pleasant at this friendly hotel. Leading on from here there is a comfortable sitting/ relax area in which to enjoy a good book. There is also a light breakfast room, where a good Sicilian buffet is prepared each morning. There is a multitude of very good and inexpensive restaurants at your fingertips, serving up delicious fare using local fresh fish and seafood.

Both the charming historic centre and the bustling harbour area are reached easily on foot, with Castellammare’s splendid wide sandy beach just a ten minute drive away. A car is highly recommended in order to take advantage of Western Sicily’s attractions such as Erice, San Vito, Selinunte or the Greek temple at Segesta.

Transfer time from Palermo airport – approx. 40 minutes.

Transfer time from Trapani airport – approx. 50 minutes.

P RICING i n Standard Tw in or D oub le Room, BB Low

Mid

High

Peak

7 Nts 10 Nts

427 519

519 611

625 724

704 837

Dates Applicable

1 Nov-20 Apr 1 May-21 Jun

1-21 Sep

1-22 Jul

1-22 Aug

A SELECTION OF GUIDE PRICES (between 1 Nov 15-31 Oct 16) per person in £ with flights from Gatwick.Twin/Double seaview from £4 per person per night. For flight information see page 72. Other dates of travel, and single occupancy will be quoted with pleasure. To make a booking see page 73.

ADDED VALUE!

Stay 7 pay 6 for holidays started and completed between 1 Jan-31 Jul 16 & 1 Sep-31 Oct 16, saving at least £27 per person. Honeymooners receive a bottle of spumante in room on arrival.

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CASTELLAMMARE DEL GOLFO SICILY |

HOTEL PUNTA NORD EST CASTELLAMMARE DEL GOLFO ★ ★ ★

Located in an elevated position above the coastal road and affording fantastic views over the wide sweeping gulf of Castellammare this friendly family run hotel offers a very comfortable holiday base and even has the added benefit of a lovely swimming pool.

ROOMS All 57 rooms are well appointed and are light and spacious. We are pleased to offer standard rooms with balcony and seaview and for even more space there are junior suites and suites, sleeping up to five. Some rooms are inter-connecting and are perfect for families. The views from these soundproofed bedrooms are breathtaking and all have a safe, hairdryer, mini-bar, satellite TV, air-conditioning, Wi-fi and most rooms have a shower (some have a bath).

LIVING As soon as you enter the Punta Nord Est there is a feeling of quality and space, with bright and well maintained public areas, a lovely internal courtyard where a Sicilian breakfast buffet is served up every morning and a bar/sitting area. Adjoining the hotel’s entrance is a wide solarium with sunbeds and umbrellas giving way to a large freshwater pool. For those who prefer a dip in the gorgeous Mediterranean there is an underground passage from the hotel with steps leading down to a rocky cove, an ideal spot for some snorkelling. Just further along the coast lies the lovely sandy beach of Castellammare (five minutes by car).

A ten to fifteen minute downhill stroll takes you into the fascinating historic centre of this authentic Sicilian fishing town, boasting a myriad of trattorias and restaurants. A car is highly recommended in order to take advantage of Western Sicily’s attractions, such as Segesta, Selinunte, Erice, Scopello and San Vito.

Transfer time from Palermo airport – approx. 40 minutes.

Transfer time from Trapani airport – approx. 50 minutes.

PRICING i n Tw in/Do ubl e Ro om, Bal cony, Seavi ew, BB Low

Mid

High

Peak

7 Nts 10 Nts

439 536

569 681

692 819

753 907

Dates Applicable

1-22 May

1-21 Sep

1-22 Jul

1-22 Aug

A SELECTION OF GUIDE PRICES (between 1 Apr 16-31 Oct 16) per person in £ with flights from Gatwick. Junior Suite from £6 per person per night. For flight information see page 72. Other dates of travel, room types and single occupancy will be quoted with pleasure. To make a booking see page 73.

ADDED VALUE!

Stay 7 pay 6 for holidays started and completed between 1 Apr-31 Jul & 1 Sep-31 Oct, saving at least £30 per person. Honeymooners receive a bottle of spumante in room on arrival.

ASK YOUR AGENT TO RING PRESTIGE HOLIDAYS 01425 480 400

31

PALERMO Sicily’s colourful and exotic capital

San Vito Lo Capo Palermo Segesta

Castellammare Del Golfo

A fascinating, vibrant city Palermo has been shaped and created by an eclectic mix of civilizations which fought over and colonized Sicily during the past centuries. Rich in works of art, architecture and culture, Sicily’s capital not only is a living museum but also provides the visitor with a valuable insight into the life of everyday working Sicilians. This cultural crossroads is full of atmosphere, noises, smells, a real assault on the senses, with unexpected vistas around each corner. Exploring this wonderful city really is a true adventure.

For lovers of art and architecture Palermo boasts a myriad of attractions, from the impressive facade of its Norman cathedral to the breathtaking mosaics and paintings at the Palatine Chapel. Beautiful baroque architecture abounds, the ‘Quattro Canti’ providing a fine example, whilst the gold leaf ceiling mosaics of Monreale Cathedral just outside the city are simply stunning.

The baroque centre of Palermo has recently been designated an UNESCO site. A slightly more macabre insight into Palermo’s history can be marvelled at within the ‘Cappuccini’, an incredible display of mummified monks hanging from the catacomb walls!

Perhaps top of the list for many are the incredibly varied gastronomic delights the city has on offer, from mouth watering street snacks such as ‘pane panelle’ (sesame buns filled with fried chick peas) to a freshly grilled slice of tuna or pesce spada (swordfish) cooked to order at Borgo Vecchio’s street market. Fashionable cafés and ‘pasticcerias’

adorn Palermo’s bustling piazzas showing off a wide array of delicious sweet pastries and ice creams, a constant reminder of the island’s Arabic domination.

Whisk yourself off into another world browsing the incredible souks, markets which are more reminiscent of North Africa than Italy! Here, heaped spices in wicker baskets follow the colours of the rainbow, and ‘palermitani’ barter for their daily quota of sun drenched vegetables and fruit. For the less adventurous Palermo also boasts a fine offering of modern shopping with all the designer boutiques and brands you could hope to expect!

Blessed with a wonderful climate a stay in Palermo is perfect for a year round short break or as part of a multi-centre/touring itinerary in Sicily. Public transport links the city with Mondello’s fine sandy beach, which is just fifteen minutes’ drive away. A car is not recommended in Palermo.

Palermo

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PALERMO SICILY |

GRAND HOTEL VILLA IGIEA NEAR PALERMO ★ ★ ★ ★ ★

This five star historic hotel has to be not only one of Sicily’s most well known, but also one of the island’s finest. Originally a private villa belonging to the aristocratic Florio family the hotel was re-designed in an art-nouveau style reflecting the belle époque of the late 1800’s. Sitting at the foot of Monte Pellegrino this magnificent property occupies a prime waterfront position overlooking the entire bay of Palermo.

ROOMS 116 rooms, all extremely well appointed in art-nouveau style with safe, air-conditioning, bathrobes and slippers, mini-bar and satellite TV. Most bathrooms have a bath. Standard Classic guest rooms have an inland view, superior rooms have garden view, deluxe rooms have seaview whilst grand deluxe plus rooms have seaview and balcony. Junior suites and suites are also available.

LIVING As you enter the grandeur of Villa Igiea you are transported back to the golden age of Sicily’s aristocracy, as detailed in the novel ‘The Leopard’. Beautiful old world public areas, bars and lounges give way to delightful gardens, leading you down to the intimate pool and water’s edge, where the hotel has its own mooring for luxury yachts.

Relax in this historic and opulent surrounding and enjoy a leisurely breakfast on the terrace overlooking the bay, with first class service from the hotel’s staff. Partake in some local specialities with fine dining in the hotel’s restaurants or indulge in wine and cheese tasting in the Donna Franca Florio restaurant.

A beauty centre offering Shiatzu massages and treatments is open from approximately Apr-Oct and for the more energetic there is a tennis court and a nine hole golf course nearby. Let ‘The Villa Boat’ whisk you along the delightful coast with a light lunch on board (usually available mid June to mid September).

The wide sandy beach at Mondello is just ten minutes away by car as is the hustle and bustle of vibrant Palermo with its markets, shops and many historic monuments. A stay at the Grand Hotel Villa Igiea is for those who want to explore Palermo and the island’s cultural treasures – whilst benefiting from a beautiful coastline – but from a luxurious base, which at the same time reflects the Sicily of a bygone era.

Transfer time from Palermo airport – approx. 30 minutes.

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7 Nts 10 Nts

HOTEL CLOSED

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748 927

794 1039

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1 Nov-21 Dec 7 Jan-10 Mar

11-14 Mar 29 Mar-20 Apr

22-24 Mar

22-27 Dec

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763 999

819 1054

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942 1178

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1 May-30 Jun

1-22 Oct

1-30 Sep

1 Jul-31 Aug

Applicable A SELECTION OF GUIDE PRICES (between 22 Dec15-6 Jan 16 & 11 Mar-31 Oct 16) per person in £ with flights from Gatwick. Superior room from £9 per person per night. Half board (3 courses) from £49 per person per night. For flight information see page 72. Other dates of travel, room types and single occupancy will be quoted with pleasure. To make a booking see page 73.

ADDED VALUE!

PALERMO ★ ★ ★ ★

Located in a quiet and modern neighbourhood of Palermo, close to the fashionable Viale della Liberta and the imposing Piazza Politeama, this small boutique style hotel, which was completely renovated in 2010, provides an ideal base from which to explore the vibrant and fascinating Sicilian capital.

ROOMS The spacious 32 bedrooms are very well appointed in a contemporary yet cosy style using light colours and contemporary art. Bathrooms are modern in style with large showers and all rooms have hairdryer, telephone, satellite TV, safe, mini-bar, air-conditioning and Wi-fi (charge). Deluxe rooms offer more space than the superior rooms (photo), whilst junior suites with sitting area and stylish interiors are also available.

LIVING This lovely hotel boasts an eclectic mix of contemporary and traditional design, with cosy public areas adorned with Sicilian antiques entwined with a display of masterpieces created by local contemporary artists. The comfortable sitting area, library and lounge is reminiscent of an aristocratic residence, taking us back to the Bourbon times of ‘The Leopard’. There is also a small bar and delightful breakfast room serving up Sicilian delicacies each morning.

Just a few minutes’ walk from the Principe lies the well known Viale della Liberta, offering a vast choice of shops, fashionable bars, ice cream parlours and restaurants. The small streets leading to and from this area offer the visitor an insight into the ‘real’ Palermo or head for the colourful markets of Il Capo, Ballaro or the Vucciria, with their fabulous displays of local fish and fresh garden produce, all situated in the historic centre of Palermo, which can easily be reached using local busses or even on foot. A short stroll leads to Piazza Politeama, widely regarded as ‘the centre’ of Palermo and which houses the magnificent ‘Teatro Politeama’. From here many of Palermo’s celebrated attractions are easily reached on foot.

A stay at the Principe is ideal for those looking to discover this wonderful city but relish retreating into a peaceful and comfortable ‘oasis’ after a hectic day’s sightseeing.

PR ICING in St an dard Cl assic R oom, BB Win ter

HOTEL PRINCIPE DI VILLAFRANCA

For our latest special offers visit our website www.prestigeholidays.co.uk. A welcome gift in rooms on arrival.

Transfer time from Palermo airport – approx 45 minutes.

PRICING i n Super i or Twin /D oub le Room, BB Low

Mid

High

Peak

7 Nts 10 Nts*

563 673

636 799

692 858

729 895

Dates Applicable

1 Nov-11 Mar

6 May-17 Jun

7-21 Oct

2-30 Sep

A SELECTION OF GUIDE PRICES (between 1 Nov 15-31 Oct 16) per person in £ with flights from Gatwick. *10 night price based on Friday departures, supplements will apply for other days of departure. Transfer supplement applies if arriving on a local Bank Holiday. Deluxe rooms from £7 per person per night. Half board from £22 per person per night. For flight information see page 72. Other dates of travel, room types and single occupancy will be quoted with pleasure. To make a booking see page 73.

ADDED VALUE!

Book by 31 Mar 16 and save at least £30 per person per week OR Stay 3 nights or more and save from £4 per person per night.

ASK YOUR AGENT TO RING PRESTIGE HOLIDAYS 01425 480 400

33

CEFALU

Beautiful medieval town with a lovely beach and vibrant centre.

Blessed with a long sandy beach, an enchanting old town against a stunning mountain backdrop and plenty of Sicilian character, Cefalu is the perfect resort. The medieval centre of Cefalu has recently been designated an UNESCO site.

Located on Sicily’s verdant north coast and just an hour east of Palermo, Cefalu’s stunning Norman cathedral dominates the skyline, overlooking the pretty main piazza of this attractive and vibrant town. Shops and street lined cafés abound, whilst cosy trattoria terraces spill out toward the azure waters of this lovely bay. Cefalu’s fabulous climate together with the fact that it is a year round inhabited centre ensures a very long

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season, as not only is it a popular main holiday destination but also a short break one.

To one side of the historic centre and just a few minutes on foot lies Cefalu’s long sandy beach, which is perfect for safe swimming and sunbathing, whilst on the other side of the headland known as ‘La Rocca’ there is a small port offering boat excursions in high season. The majority of hotels, shops, bars and restaurants are situated behind Cefalu’s beach hence it’s easy to get around on foot, so a car is not essential here.

Inland from this lovely resort is the stunning beautiful regional park of ‘Le Madonie’, and just a little way along the coast lies the ceramics

San Vito Lo Capo

Cefalu

Castellammare Del Golfo Segesta

Taormina

Mount Etna Agrigento

Catania

village of Santo Stefano di Camastra. Palermo is only a short train ride away, and Cefalu is also very well placed to visit attractions in both the west and the east of the island, such as Taormina, Agrigento and Segesta by car.

T EAM

irga Peppino V l Meditrave ansfers Airpor t tr ns & excursio

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CEFALU SICILY |

HOTEL TOURIST CEFALU ★ ★ ★

This simple and unpretentious hotel boasts a wonderful seafront location at the end of Cefalu’s beautiful bay. Its friendly and informal atmosphere with good old fashioned service and charm is ideal for a relaxing holiday with both a lovely pool and beach at your fingertips.

We offer this value for money hotel on a half-board basis, with good home cooked food using mostly local ingredients. There are also some themed evenings during the week, such as the ‘Sicilian evening’ accompanied by traditional live music.

ROOMS The 46 rooms are simply furnished in a typical Mediterranean seaside style and have safe, hairdryer, air-conditioning, mini-bar and satellite TV. Our rooms also have a balcony and either side seaview or full seaview. A family room sleeping two adults and two children is also available, but please note this has no balcony and no view. Complimentary Wi-fi throughout the hotel.

LIVING Many guests return year after year to the Tourist with its friendly and relaxed atmosphere.

Both the bar, restaurant and lounge areas spill out onto extensive terraces with tables

TIGE ESSENT IALLY PRES 72 e See Pag and chairs and just to one side of the hotel lies the appealing and spacious outdoor pool. Just across the road is the lovely sandy beach where you can enjoy swimming and relaxing with the added benefit of the hotel’s parasols and sunbeds (weather permitting).

Evening meals are served in the traditionally furnished restaurant. From June to midSeptember a super fish barbeque is organised on the terraces once a week, dependent on number of guests in the hotel.

A very pleasant 20 minute stroll along the seafront, boasting fantastic views of Cefalu’s historic centre and headland, takes you into the thick of things, where you can take your pick amongst the wide choice of bars, shops and trattorias.

If you decide to venture further afield, Cefalu’s location right in the centre of the North coast makes an ideal base for exploring the attractions of both Western and Eastern Sicily.

Transfer time from Palermo airport – approx. one hour 30 minutes.

Transfer time from Catania airport – approx. two hours.

P RICING in Twi n/D oub le , Bal co ny, Sid e Se avie w, HB Low

Mid

High

Peak

7 Nts 10 Nts

499 612

689 844

809 974

869 1059

Dates Applicable

1-22 May

1-5 Sep

1-27 Jul

6-13 Aug

A SELECTION OF GUIDE PRICES (between 1 Apr 16-31 Oct 16) per person in £ with flights from Gatwick. Front seaview room from £8 per person per night. For flight information see page 72. Other dates of travel, room types and single occupancy will be quoted with pleasure. To make a booking see page 73.

ADDED VALUE!

Stay 7 pay 6 for holidays started and completed between 1-30 Apr 16, saving at least £32 per person. OR Book by 31 Mar 16 and save at least £21 per person per week.

ASK YOUR AGENT TO RING PRESTIGE HOLIDAYS 01425 480 400

35

CEFALU SICILY |

ALBERI DEL PARADISO CEFALU ★ ★ ★ ★

Situated just above the picturesque town of Cefalu this elegant boutique style hotel provides an extremely comfortable base for your holiday. The Alberi has a warm and welcoming ambience coupled with stylish surroundings and offers efficient yet friendly service. This hotel has been a firm favourite with British guests now for a number of years and it has proved to be a popular choice with our clients.

ROOMS All 55 bedrooms are tastefully and stylishly furnished with the use of elegant soft colours and fabrics. Facilities include safe, hairdryer, air-conditioning, Wi-fi, mini-bar, satellite TV and bathroom with shower. Classic rooms don’t have a balcony, superior rooms have a balcony and garden view whilst deluxe rooms also have distant seaview. Junior suites and suites are also available.

LIVING This lovely hotel is full of quirky features and cosy corners for sitting and relaxing with views reaching both over the colourful gardens and towards the majestic spires of Cefalu’s Norman cathedral. Relax on the bar’s outdoor terrace or indulge in some excellent local cuisine in the hotel’s restaurant, which spills outside for fine dining in the evening – creating an intimate and romantic atmosphere.

Within the grounds of the hotel you will find an inviting yet private outdoor heated pool surrounded by fragrant Mediterranean pines, with stylish sunloungers and boasting wonderful distant seaviews. There is a small wellness centre offering various massages and treatments, open May-Sep as well as a floodlit tennis court, equipment is available at reception (charges may apply) and gym.

36

A regular shuttle service operates to the town centre and beach, where the hotel has its own private area ‘Le Calette Beach Club’ with sunbeds, umbrellas, restaurant, snack bar, changing cabins and lounge bar.

This is a very popular and perfect choice for those who want to enjoy Cefalu’s wonderful medieval centre and beach from a very comfortable base with excellent Sicilian cuisine and high levels of service.

Transfer time from Palermo airport – approx. one hour 30 minutes.

Transfer time from Catania airport – approx. two hours.

P RIC ING i n Cl assi c Room , BB Low

Mid

High

Peak

7 Nts 10 Nts

704 899

949 1209

1035 1297

1096 1384

Dates Applicable

1-11 May

1-14 Sep

2-20 Jul 20-31 Aug

30 Jul-10 Aug

A SELECTION OF GUIDE PRICES (between 28 Mar 16-29 Oct 16) per person in £ with flights from Gatwick. Superior room with balcony from £15 per person per night. Half board from £22 per person per night. For flight information see page 72. Other dates of travel, room types and single occupancy will be quoted with pleasure. To make a booking see page 73.

ADDED VALUE!

Book by 31 Mar 16 and save at least £42 per person per week OR Stay 7 pay 6 for holidays started and completed between 28 Mar-29 Oct saving at least £60 per person AND Stay 3 nights or more and receive one complimentary evening meal per person per stay (excluding drinks).

BOOK ONLINE AT WWW.PRESTIGEHOLIDAYS.CO.UK/SICILY

CEFALU SICILY |

HOTEL LE CALETTE

HOTEL ARTEMIS

CEFALU ★ ★ ★ ★

CEFALU ★ ★ ★ ★

Set amidst lush gardens and its own attractive bay, Le Calette is a very pretty lowrise and open plan style hotel in a fabulous location. Situated just on the other side of Cefalu’s impressive ‘La Rocca’ and historic centre, guests here can really unwind in this lovely hotel. A recent stylish refurbishment of many of the hotel’s bedrooms has taken this charming property to an even higher level of accommodation.

ROOMS 30 stylish newly built bedrooms have been created around the swimming pool and main hotel area. These first class rooms are located either on the ground floor or first floor and boast either a patio or large terrace with gorgeous seaviews. Furnishings are exquisite with a contemporary twist and all rooms include safe, hairdryer, air-conditioning, minibar, satellite TV and Wi-fi. Junior suites boast a separate living area with Jacuzzi shower or bath. The remaining 25 rooms are located around the property’s gardens; classic rooms have a patio, whilst deluxe rooms offer a terrace and are sea facing. These Mediterranean style rooms enjoy the same facilities as the newly refurbished bedrooms.

LIVING The eye-catching circular restaurant and the bar and lounge area are all conveniently located around the attractive outdoor pool and terraces. From here exotic gardens and pine scented paths lead you down through the hotel’s grounds to its own beach area, comprised of a large platform with sunbeds and umbrellas (seasonal and weather permitting). A snack bar is also on hand should you require some light refreshments.

Once a week guests are treated to a grill evening with folklore music and occasional piano music in the main dining room. Weather permitting on Saturdays a gourmet dinner is served on the beach terrace and a rich buffet breakfast is served on the hotel’s lawn overlooking the sea and headland.

Should you wish to venture from this haven of relaxation the hotel operates a shuttle service into Cefalu town, alternatively there is a lovely walk around the headland to reach the historic centre.

New for 2016 and for exclusive use of Le Calette guests is a comfortable beach club located right on Cefalu’s main beach/seafront boasting a restaurant, snack bar, lounge bar and changing cabins.

Situated right in the town centre of charming Cefalu and close to the lovely sandy beach and medieval historic centre, this hotel offers high standards of accommodation and service. Shops, bars and restaurants are also at your fingertips in this enchanting resort which oozes Sicilian character and vibrancy.

The Artemis is a city break style B&B hotel with the added advantage of being just a short distance from a beautiful beach!

ROOMS The 56 rooms are tastefully furnished and extremely comfortable using only the very best local Sicilian materials. All have safe, hairdryer, air-conditioning, Wi-fi, mini-bar and satellite TV. All rooms excluding those on the ground floor have a balcony. Standard rooms are situated in the new wing of the hotel, classic rooms (photo) are situated in the older part of the hotel and are slightly larger and suites are even more spacious and have a bath.

LIVING The Artemis, originally a convent built in the 1950s, has a spacious and bright breakfast room and small bar, spilling out onto terraces with tables and chairs. Right outside the hotel are numerous shops, bars and restaurants, the hotel has an arrangement for guests on half board with a local restaurant. Just 500m away is the lovely sandy beach and bay, perfect for sunbathing and safe swimming. Sunbeds and umbrellas at the beach are bookable at the hotel for an additional charge. Just ten minutes’ walk from here takes you into the stunning medieval centre of Cefalu, with its majestic Norman cathedral, café lined piazzas and attractive trattorias overlooking the seafront and old fishing harbour.

Cefalu is a vibrant place year round so this hotel (open all year) makes a superb base for either a short break or a longer holiday for those who want to combine a beach holiday with sightseeing, whilst capturing the true flavour of Sicily. A car isn’t essential as the main train line will whisk you off to Palermo within an hour or to the ceramic town of Santo Stefano di Camastra, located just along the coast.

Transfer time from Palermo airport – approx. one hour 30 minutes.

Transfer time from Catania airport – approx. two hours.

PRICING i n Stan dar d Room , Bal co ny, BB

Please note: The hotel is close to a local railway, soundproofing is in place.

Transfer time from Palermo airport – approx. one hour 30 minutes.

Transfer time from Catania airport – approx. two hours.

PRICIN G in C la ss ic Ga rden Room , B B Low

Mid

High

Peak

7 Nts 10 Nts

704 899

949 1209

1035 1297

1096 1384

Dates Applicable

1-11 May

1-14 Sep

2-20 Jul 20-31 Aug

30 Jul-10 Aug

A SELECTION OF GUIDE PRICES (between 28 Mar-29 Oct 16) per person in £ with flights from Gatwick. Deluxe Garden room from £15 per person per night. Half board from £22 per person per night. For flight information see page 72. Other dates of travel, room types and single occupancy will be quoted with pleasure. To make a booking see page 73.

ADDED VALUE!

Stay 7 pay 6 and save at least £60 per person per week OR Book by 31 Mar 16 and save at least £42 per person per week AND Stay 3 nights or more and receive one complimentary evening meal per person per stay (excluding drinks)

Wint er

Low

7 Nts 10 Nts

474 569

HOTEL CLOSED

509 626

Dates Applicable

1 Nov-9 Dec 1 Feb-20 Apr

19 Dec-31 Jan

29-30 Apr

Su mmer

Low

Mid

High

Peak

7 Nts 10 Nts

499 612

559 679

779 929

819 992

Dates Applicable

1-22 May

1-22 Jun 1-22 Oct

2-27 Jul 20-31 Aug

6-10 Aug

High

A SELECTION OF GUIDE PRICES (between 1 Nov 15-31 Oct 16) per person in £ with flights from Gatwick. Classic room from £5 per person per night. Half board from £17 per person per night. For flight information see page 72. Other dates of travel, room types and single occupancy will be quoted with pleasure. To make a booking see page 73.

ADDED VALUE!

Book by 31 Mar 16 and save at least £21 per person per week for holidays from 1 Feb 16 AND Stay 7 pay 6 for holidays started and completed between 1 Feb-31 Mar 16 saving at least £27 per person.

ASK YOUR AGENT TO RING PRESTIGE HOLIDAYS 01425 480 400

37

NEAR CEFALU SICILY |

RELAIS SANTA ANASTASIA NEAR CEFALU ★ ★ ★ ★

As you enter the long winding driveway to this magnificent country wine estate you could easily believe you were in Tuscany … rows and rows of perfectly kept vineyards surrounded by rolling hills lead to a beautiful 12th century restored abbey originally founded by Norman monks. In an idyllic location nestled in the foothills of the Madonie National Park, yet just a ten minute drive to the coast and beaches, the Relais Santa Anastasia is a perfect place to relax and unwind in.

ROOMS All comfortably furnished in a typical Sicilian rustic fashion, the 29 rooms are spread around the various wings of the abbey. Classic rooms (with shower) look over the gardens/courtyard whilst deluxe rooms (with bath) are larger in size and have pool view.

Junior suites are even more spacious with a living area and the Grand Suites boast two bathrooms and two bedrooms making a perfect combination for families and/or friends.

All bedrooms offer safe, hairdryer, air-conditioning, satellite TV and complimentary Wifi (deluxe rooms and suites also provide bathrobes and slippers).

LIVING This lovely stone built character property exudes history and charm from all angles and benefits from an extremely peaceful location with gorgeous views across the Sicilian countryside and down to the coast. Boasting plenty of comfortable sitting/public areas

SELF -DRIVE

there is a delightful courtyard (where wine tasting can be organised) even housing its very own chapel! Just across from here an inviting terrace provides sunbeds and umbrellas around a lovely swimming pool with outstanding views across the rolling hills.

Ideal to relax over a book or wind down sipping a chilled pre-dinner prosecco!

Breakfast is served in a light and airy restaurant ‘Passioni e Tentazioni’ overlooking the pool, which during the main summer months also serves up light lunches. Housed within the abbey a truly elegant restaurant ‘La Corte dell’Abate’ beckons you to taste some of the sumptuous local fare accompanied by an impressive variety of excellent wines produced by the estate itself.

Aside from wine tasting, cooking lessons, horse riding and massages are also available (all payable locally). Cefalu itself with its buzzing historic centre and beach is just a twenty minute drive away, as is the authentic and un-touristy town of Castelbuono. For walkers and nature lovers there is a myriad of opportunities on your doorstep from this delightful retreat.

We include an economy hire car in our prices.

Driving time from Catania airport – approx two hours 30 minutes.

Driving time from Palermo airport – approx one hour 20 minutes.

PRICING i n Cl assic Roo m, BB Low

Mid

High

Peak

3 Nts 7 Nts

338 575

419 689

485 794

575 888

Dates Applicable

1-22 Apr

1-28 Oct

1-24 Sep

12 Jul-31 Aug

A SELECTION OF GUIDE PRICES (between 1 Apr-31 Oct 16) per person in £ with flights from Gatwick. Deluxe room from £10 per person per night. Half board from £33 per person per night. For flight information see page 72. Other dates of travel, room types and single occupancy will be quoted with pleasure. To make a booking see page 73.

ADDED VALUE!

Stay 7 pay 6 for holidays started and completed between 1 Jul-30 Sep 16 or stay 5 pay 4 for holidays started and completed between 29 Apr-30 Jun and 1-31 Oct or stay 4 pay 3 for holidays started and completed between 1-28 Apr, saving at least £40 per person. OR Book by 31 Mar 16 to save at least £28 per person per week.

38

BOOK ONLINE AT WWW.PRESTIGEHOLIDAYS.CO.UK/SICILY

CEFALU SICILY |

MASSERIA SUSAFA NEAR POLIZZI GENEROSA, AGRITURISMO ★ ★ ★

This lovely restored ‘Masseria’ (farmhouse) is located in a remote and breathtakingly beautiful part of the Sicilian countryside and rolling hills at 900m above sea level. Owned for over 300 years by the Rizzuto family you can be assured of a very warm welcome by brothers Tommaso and Massimo. A stay here really gives the visitor an insight into traditional Sicilian living and makes a perfect base to both relax and visit the fascinating villages of the Madonie National Park and with Cefalu, Piazza Armerina , Enna and Agrigento all within relatively easy reach by car.

ROOMS All 14 ground floor bedrooms are comfortably furnished in a typical rustic style and all open out directly onto the Masseria’s lovely terraces and garden. Superior rooms are larger in size and are designed in a split level fashion with a double bed on the upper floor and a living area with shower room on the ground floor. All bedrooms offer shower, hairdryer, air conditioning, heating, mini-bar and complimentary Wi-fi. Family rooms and inter-connecting rooms are also available.

LIVING Situated on its very own wooded hilltop and with 360° views of the lovely Sicilian countryside a sense of tranquillity and history pervades as you enter Masseria Susafa .

The magnificent ‘church like’ restaurant adorned with arches and vaulted ceilings was once the ‘granaio’, where wheat was stored for the surrounding population. Today, you can expect mouth watering buffet breakfasts here and excellent evening meals

SELF -DRIVE using only the very best local produce accompanied by first class Sicilian wines and the Masseria’s own top notch olive oil. Why not partake in a cooking class and learn to make fresh focaccia or hand made pasta?

Just opposite is a delightful spacious covered garden area, decked out with chairs and tables, ideal for reading a book or just relaxing over a cappucino. During the afternoons and evenings an adjoining wine bar beckons, located in an historic wing of the farmhouse, oozing with character and boasting stone walls adorned with ancient photographs depicting bygone years and past life of Masseria Susafa. The best views can however be enjoyed from a charming rooftop terrace – a perfect ‘chill out’ area with comfy cushions for taking in the breathtaking surroundings over a pre-dinner chilled aperitif!

A short stroll through pleasant gardens leads you to a good sized beautifully crafted stone swimming pool surrounded by sun beds and umbrellas. Tranquil and scenic, this is the ideal place to wind down and re-charge the batteries!

Due to its central location in Sicily, Masseria Susafa is a great base for exploring by car and is also very popular with walkers and nature lovers. Horse riding is available nearby and ‘Regaleali’ , a well known winery is just a 40 minute drive away. The altitude of this charming retreat provides a welcome respite from the summer heat and with cooler evenings in spring and autumn you can expect to enjoy the cosy atmosphere created by the lovely open fireplaces!

We include an economy hire car in our prices.

Driving time from Catania airport – approx. one hour 30 minutes.

Driving time from Palermo airport – approx. two hours 10 minutes.

Driving time from Comiso airport – approx. two hours 20 minutes.

P RIC ING in Classi c Room , BB Low

Mid

High

3 Nts 7 Nts

299 485

349 529

496 699

Dates Applicable

21 Mar-18 Jun

1-9 Oct

23 Jul-25 Aug

A SELECTION OF GUIDE PRICES (between 21 Mar-31 Oct 16) per person in £ with flights from Gatwick. Superior room from £10 per person per night. Half board from £22 per person per night. For flight information see page 72. Other dates of travel, and single occupancy will be quoted with pleasure. To make a booking see page 73.

ADDED VALUE!

Stay 3 nights or more between 21 Mar-24 Jun and 1-31 Oct and receive a discount.

Honeymooners receive sparkling wine and fruit in room on arrival.

ASK YOUR AGENT TO RING PRESTIGE HOLIDAYS 01425 480 400

39

TAORMINA & GIARDINI NAXOS Stylish and sophisticated with breathtaking views.

Aeolian Islands

Milazzo Sophisticated, stylish and elegant Taormina is undoubtedly Sicily’s premier resort, and justifiably so. Perched high up in the most dramatic of locations and boasting incredible views across the blue Mediterranean with majestic Mount Etna as a backdrop, Taormina’s lush and tropical flora intermingles in perfect harmony with its great selection of lovely hotels.

The enchanting old town has a superb choice of mouth watering trattorias, bars and cafés not to mention a fine array of fashionable boutiques and clothes shops. A beautiful Greek amphitheatre, located right in the centre, looks out over Etna and provides a magical atmosphere for the many concerts held here through the summer.

It’s very easy to get around on foot, therefore a car is not advised if staying in Taormina.

MEET

Should you be tempted to drag yourself away from this heavenly bliss, the Taormina area is well located to visit a number of Sicily’s top attractions – to the North East lie the fascinating volcanic Aeolian Islands, whilst to the South an ascent of Mount Etna affords the most

Cefalu Enna

Taormina Giardini Naxos Catania Siracusa/Ortigia

spectacular of views. The beautiful baroque gem of Ortigia is just a day trip away whilst closer to home the Alcantara Gorge offers natural beauty with outdoor activities, get close to the real Sicily and visit off the beaten track authentic villages along the Val D’Agro, where many of the scenes from ‘The Godfather’ were filmed.

Mazzaro Bay, Taormina Mare

M T HE T EA

mina co & Taor e r G lo e g An e Team Car Servic private ansfers & tr t r o p ir A s. excursion

40

A cable car whisks you down in no time to Taormina Mare, where you can relax, swim and snorkel among the lovely coves and cozy pebble beaches. Slightly further afield lies the bustling town and resort of Giardini Naxos, with its long curved bay, wide choice of amenities and perfectly located beachfront hotels. Giardini Naxos is very quiet in low season and many of the bars and restaurants will be closed. We recommend the resort between the months of April-October.

Cleonice Adelaide ormina olidays Ta Prestige H tative Represen

BOOK ONLINE AT WWW.PRESTIGEHOLIDAYS.CO.UK/SICILY

TAORMINA & GIARDINI NAXOS SICILY |

SAN DOMENICO PALACE TAORMINA ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ L

As you enter the magnificent San Domenico Palace, which is a member of the prestigious ‘Leading Hotels of the World’, you really do take a step back in time. Originally a 15th century convent this five star luxury hotel, set in lush gardens brimming with orange and lemon trees, stands in a central location whilst boasting superb views over the stunning Taormina coastline and majestic Mount Etna.

This characterful property, one of Taormina’s first luxury residences, ensures privacy and provides an oasis of tranquillity, yet at the same time enjoys an enviable position amidst the stylish and bustling centre of Taormina with its many boutiques and fashionable hang outs.

ROOMS The 105 bedrooms are split between the monastery wing where the monks living quarters were originally based and the grand wing, the newer part of the hotel. Classic rooms overlook the ancient cloisters or Taormina, whilst Superior rooms boast lovely seaviews. Deluxe rooms, in the grand wing, offer both seaview and balcony. Whether you choose the historic wing or the Liberty style grand wing, all rooms have been comfortably furnished in a style reflecting the hotel’s history and facilities include bath, safe, hairdryer, bathrobe, slippers, air-conditioning, mini-bar and satellite TV. Executive rooms, junior suites (photo) and suites are also available.

LIVING The alluring San Domenico Palace offers a wonderfully peaceful retreat – a heavenly oasis in which you can simply relax. Perhaps enjoy a good book in the charming courtyard with original cloisters or stroll through the Mediterranean gardens down to the intimate pool whilst admiring the breathtaking views over this majestic coastline. Beautiful purple Bougainvillea adorn the plentiful terraces whilst the fragrance of Jasmine lingers in the air.

The San Domenico’s luxuriant grounds provide a truly magnificent setting in this ‘garden of Eden’. It’s little wonder that this historic and palatial residence was patronised by many renowned artists and writers over the centuries.

Served on the hotel’s charming and secluded terrace, breakfast at the San Domenico is a delightfully elegant but relaxed affair. Help yourself to the sumptuous feast of Sicilian delicacies from the beautifully presented buffet and enjoy a leisurely start to the day over a freshly made Cappuccino.

Take a break from the midday sun and refresh yourself with a ‘granita’ (Sicilian water ice) or a glass of freshly squeezed orange juice from one of the hotel’s three bars. Or perhaps for that special occasion, indulge in a wonderfully romantic meal at the two Michelin star restaurant, the Principe Cerami, with alfresco dining during the summer months.

The hotel also offers a four course half-board menu at ‘Les Bougainvilles’ restaurant.

Other facilities include a beauty parlour, a good choice of reading areas, a gym and boutique. The charming centre of Taormina with its stylish shops, bars and great choice of restaurants are at your fingertips.

Transfer time from Catania airport – approx. one hour.

PRICING i n Cl assic Doub l e Room , BB Wint er

Low

High

Peak

7 Nts 10 Nts

852 1113

HOTEL CLOSED

1038 1379

1237 1578

Dates Applicable

1 Nov-18 Dec 11-13 Mar

6 Jan-10 Mar

29-31 Mar

23 Mar

Su mmer

Low

Mid

High

Peak

7 Nts 10 Nts

1054 1379

1099 1444

1167 1509

1256 1638

Dates Applicable

1-22 May 9-22 Oct

1 Jun-14 Jul 8-29 Sep

15-29 Jul 22 Aug-7 Sep

8-12 Aug

A SELECTION OF GUIDE PRICES (between 1 Nov 15-31 Oct 16) per person in £ with flights from Gatwick. Superior room from £34 per person per night. Half board from £38 per person per night. For flight information see page 72. Other dates of travel, room types and single occupancy will be quoted with pleasure. To make a booking see page73.

ADDED VALUE!

Many special offers available throughout the year, including early booking discount, free night and complimentary meals. Please see our website for more information.

Compulsory New Year and Easter meal included in our prices.

Hotel closed 6 Jan-10 Mar.

ASK YOUR AGENT TO RING PRESTIGE HOLIDAYS 01425 480 400

41

TAORMINA & GIARDINI NAXOS SICILY |

VILLA BELVEDERE TAORMINA ★ ★ ★ ★

Conveniently situated close to the centre of Taormina (10 minutes’ walk) yet in a very private and secluded setting, the Villa Belvedere oozes charm and character. Efficiently run by the friendly Pecaut family, this delightful property is justifiably popular with British guests and enjoys a relaxed, informal atmosphere.

ROOMS All 53 rooms are furnished comfortably in a traditional style and there is a choice of partial seaview rooms with French balcony or full seaview rooms with terrace and wonderful views of the Mediterranean Sea and the hotel’s luxuriant gardens and pool.

Facilities include safe, bath or shower, hairdryer, air-conditioning, small fridge (empty), tea/coffee making facilities and satellite TV. LIVING Many of the comfortable and traditionally styled public areas, lounges and sitting corners enjoy lovely views across the Villa Belvedere’s pretty gardens with Etna and the Mediterranean beckoning in the distance. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast served until late morning (11am), which is a super buffet comprising of many fresh, local specialities.

Just below the Villa lies the hotel’s exquisite gardens, which are always full of bloom and colour, leading to the lovely outdoor pool, where during the summer months the snack bar serves up delicious Sicilian fare on its terraces.

The beaches of Taormina are just a short bus ride away (or take the cable car) and all the excellent facilities, trattorias and cafés of Taormina’s historic centre can be reached in a ten minute stroll.

From the beginning of May and on a request basis days on the beach can be organised with transport from and to the hotel by shuttle bus – entrance, sunbed and umbrella hire are included for approx. €8.50 per person (children half price).

Complimentary Wi-fi throughout the hotel.

Transfer time from Catania airport – approx. one hour.

P RICING i n Standard Room , Fr ench Balcony, BB Low

Mid

High

Peak

7 Nts 10 Nts

499 609

779 986

874 1119

939 1188

Dates Applicable

5-31 Mar

1 May-29 Jun 24 Sep-12 Oct

9-14 July 8-14 Sep

15 Jul-7 Sep

A SELECTION OF GUIDE PRICES (between 1 Nov 15-31 Oct 16) per person in £ with British Airways flights from Gatwick.

Seaview room from £10 per person per night. For flight information see page 72. Other dates of travel, room types and single occupancy will be quoted with pleasure. To make a booking see page 73. Hotel closed between 25 Nov 15-4 Mar 16.

ADDED VALUE!

Stay a minimum of 3 nights and receive a complimentary lunch by the pool (stay 10 nights and receive 2 lunches), excluding drinks.

Honeymooners receive flowers, fruit and sparkling wine in room on arrival.

42

BOOK ONLINE AT WWW.PRESTIGEHOLIDAYS.CO.UK/SICILY

TAORMINA & GIARDINI NAXOS SICILY |

EXCELSIOR PALACE TAORMINA ★ ★ ★ ★

This majestic hotel has the incredible advantage of being set apart in its own beautiful grounds, offering privacy and seclusion, yet at the same time is situated in the heart of Taormina’s vibrant centre with its vast choice of elegant shops, bars, restaurants and attractions. Its unique promontory location affords wonderful views over the Bay of Naxos and nearby Mount Etna and the traditional architecture exudes an historical feeling and ‘olde worlde’ charm and atmosphere.

ROOMS The hotel’s 88 rooms are furnished in a comfortable and traditional fashion offering bath or shower, safe, hairdryer, air-conditioning (June to Sept), mini-bar and satellite TV. Standard rooms don’t have a balcony and benefit from double glaze sound proofing.

Etna rooms tend to be slightly noisier and have a balcony. Front seaview rooms have a full seaview and a few rooms also have a balcony. Complimentary Wi-fi throughtout the hotel (except the pool area).

LIVING From the bustling centre of Taormina as soon as you enter the Excelsior Palace you feel as if you are stepping back in time. The spacious, verdant grounds tempt you past the inviting outdoor terrace where a cocktail aperitif beckons, down the numerous steps (70!) and finally to the superb large outdoor pool (open June to Sept) located at the end of the promontory. From here there are wonderful views, with privacy and relaxation the order of the day. Sunbeds and umbrellas are on hand, as is a welcoming pool bar to tempt with a refreshing drink.

The hotel’s restaurant, public areas, lounges and bar are all decorated and furnished in an elegant style and the Excelsior makes a perfect base for a relaxing holiday with all the amenities of Taormina at your beck and call. Half board is available between 25 Mar-31 Oct 16.

Transfer time from Catania airport – approx. one hour.

PRICING i n Stand ar d Room, BB Wint er

Low

Mid

High

Peak

7 Nts 10 Nts

518 637

579 694

679 841

818 936

Dates Applicable

1 Nov-18 Dec 4 Jan-15 Mar 30-31 Mar

1-7 Apr

17-28 Apr

28-Dec

Su mmer

Low

Mid

High

Peak

7 Nts 10 Nts

657 812

724 879

737 925

804 989

Dates Applicable

21 Jun-14 Jul 1-22 Oct

15-30 Jul

8 May-11 Jun 8-21 Sep

9-12 Aug 1-7 Sep

A SELECTION OF GUIDE PRICES (between 1 Nov 15–31 Oct 16) per person in £ with flights from Gatwick. Etna view room from £7 per person per night. Half board* from £15 per person per night. For flight information see page 72. Other dates of travel, room types and single occupancy will be quoted with pleasure. To make a booking see page 73. *Half Board only available between 25 Mar-31 Oct.

ADDED VALUE!

Book before 30 Apr 16: Receive complimentary half board for holidays from 25 Mar 16 OR stay 7 pay 6 (14 for 12) for holidays started and completed between 1 Nov-22 Dec 15, 4 Jan-7 May 16, 21 Jun-8 Aug, 22-31 Aug and 1-31 Oct and save at least £36 per person per week. Honeymooners receive fruit and sparkling wine in room on arrival. Gala meal on 31 Dec included in our prices.

ASK YOUR AGENT TO RING PRESTIGE HOLIDAYS 01425 480 400

43

TAORMINA & GIARDINI NAXOS SICILY |

VILLA DUCALE TAORMINA ★ ★ ★ ★

This award winning small luxury boutique hotel is perched just above the old centre of Taormina boasting what has to be the most incredible vistas across the blue Mediterranean and magnificent Mount Etna. A stay here provides the ultimate romantic experience in an intimate environment where you can just relax and enjoy being pampered by the ever attentive and friendly staff.

ROOMS The 18 unique bedrooms are spread amongst the various wings of this lovely former Sicilian villa. Furnishings are exquisite with particular attention to detail and are designed in a contemporary Sicilian style. Each with its own terrace and seaview, all rooms enjoy bath or shower, safe, hairdryer, bathrobes and slippers, mini-bar, satellite TV, airconditioning, tea/coffee making facilities and DVD/CD player. Suites (photo) are larger in size and have their own lounge area. Complimentary Wi-fi (and throughout the hotel).

LIVING Situated in an elevated position above Taormina, life in this lovely boutique property revolves around its stunning terrace. From here you can enjoy the most wonderful views across the Taormina coastline and Mount Etna and relax over a gorgeous Sicilian buffet breakfast, created daily with only the freshest of produce. Every day between 5-6pm guests can benefit from a ‘tea time buffet’ laced with delightful cakes and local biscuits. As evening approaches the atmosphere takes on a truly magical twist with hues of orange and red reflecting from the volcano’s slopes across to the glimmering Mediterranean. Sit back and take in this perfect and unforgettable scenario of romance over one of Villa Ducale’s tempting sunset cocktails! Linger on into the evening and the attentive yet unobtrusive staff will be on hand to advise you on the range of delicious creations from the hotel’s innovative restaurant (meals can be tailor made including gluten free options).

To the rear side of the villa lies a lovely outdoor Jacuzzi whirpool surrounded by decking and sunbeds – perfect to unwind and relax over a good book. The historic centre of Taormina with its wide selection of boutiques, bars and restaurants is just a fifteen minute walk downhill and the hotel provides a shuttle service to the town centre (complimentary) . For the more adventurous why not jump on a local bus up to the medieval hamlet of Castelmola?

Villa Ducale provides a perfect retreat for couples and is an ideal choice to celebrate that special occasion in an intimate, stylish and romantic setting with excellent, yet informal and friendly service.

Transfer time from Catania airport – approx.one hour.

P RICING in Sup eri or Room, Ter race , Seavi ew BB Low

Mid

High

Peak

7 Nts 10 Nts

719 1039

1137 1497

1179 1559

1204 1564

Dates Applicable

15-16 Mar

24-31 Mar 1 May-14 July

1-30 Apr

15 Jul-7 Sep

A SELECTION OF GUIDE PRICES (between 15 Mar 16-31 Oct 16) per person in £ with British Airways flights from Gatwick.

Junior Suite seaview from £17 per person per night. For flight information see page 72. Other dates of travel, room types and single occupancy will be quoted with pleasure. To make a booking see page 73.

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BOOK ONLINE AT WWW.PRESTIGEHOLIDAYS.CO.UK/SICILY

TAORMINA & GIARDINI NAXOS SICILY |

VILLA CARLOTTA TAORMINA ★ ★ ★ ★

Located just a short walk from Taormina’s beautiful centre this palatial yet intimate boutique style villa evokes the grandeur of Sicily’s rich history and offers a friendly yet discreet, high level of service. Comfortably furnished and set above the coast with beautiful views, the Villa Carlotta is the ultimate romantic hideaway. Early booking is advised for this extremely sought after property.

ROOMS All 23 rooms are exquisitely furnished in an elegant style reflecting Sicily’s culture using only the very best local fabrics and materials. All have French balconies and all boast sea or garden views with bath, safe, hairdryer, bathrobe, slippers, air-conditioning, mini-bar, satellite TV, Wi-fi and tea and coffee making facilities. The junior suites (photo), are larger in size and the suite also has a terrace.

LIVING The most outstanding feature of all has to be the hotel’s wonderful rooftop terrace, where an excellent Sicilian buffet breakfast is prepared daily, featuring only the freshest and best ingredients. Beautiful seaviews abound at all angles with Mount Etna completing a perfect picture and the refreshing sea breezes ensure that this really is an idyllic spot to enjoy drinks or snacks throughout the day or simply relax in one of the comfortable chairs. A delightful evening menu is also available here.

From the moment you arrive at Villa Carlotta the warm welcome from Riccardo and his team will ensure you feel at home. In an elevated position overlooking the azure Mediterranean sea, this charming residence has an attractive garden with a small outdoor pool, a stylish bar and reading/internet area.

Should you decide to leave this luxury, the beaches of Taormina are just a short drive away (the hotel offers a shuttle service) and the centre of Taormina with its great choice of boutiques, restaurants and bars is only a ten minute walk away.

Villa Carlotta is under the same management/ownership as Villa Ducale (opposite page).

Transfer time from Catania airport – approx. one hour.

P RICING i n Del uxe Room, Balcony, BB Low

Mid

High

Mid

7 Nts 10 Nts

909 1099

1137 1499

1182 1559

1199 1564

Dates Applicable

30-31 Oct

19-31 Mar 1 May-14 Jul

1-30 Apr

15 Jul-7 Sep

8 Sep-23 Oct A SELECTION OF GUIDE PRICES (between 19 Mar-31 Oct 16) per person in £ with British Airways flights from Gatwick. Junior Suite garden view from £18 per person per night. For flight information see page 72. Other dates of travel, room types and single occupancy will be quoted with pleasure. To make a booking see page 73.

ADDED VALUE!

Bottle of water in room on arrival with our compliments.

Shuttle service to Taormina beach.

ASK YOUR AGENT TO RING PRESTIGE HOLIDAYS 01425 480 400

45

TAORMINA & GIARDINI NAXOS SICILY |

THE ASHBEE TAORMINA ★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Combining the very best of Sicilian and British culture, The Ashbee is a small luxury boutique hotel set in lovely gardens and boasting fabulous vistas from its public areas along the Sicilian coastline. Originally built in 1908 as a villa for the British architect Charles Ashbee this elegant property is located in a tranquil corner of Taormina yet just a few steps away from the vibrant centre of Sicily’s most fashionable resort.

ROOMS The beautifully appointed 25 rooms are superbly designed with high quality fabrics and furnishings, featuring a blend of historic Sicilian style with traditional elegance. All our featured rooms and suites have views of the garden or the courtyard. There are four categories of room classic, superior, deluxe and suite all of which boast safe, hairdryer,

shower or bath, bathrobes and slippers, air-conditioning, mini-bar, satellite TV and Wi-fi.

Suites can also offer family accommodation for up to four people. Not all rooms or the suite have a balcony or terrace.

LIVING As you enter through the gates of The Ashbee you feel as if you are arriving at your own personal private residence. An immediate sense of history, luxury and intimacy together with attentive personal service awaits you.

Comfortable public areas and lounges are adorned with antique pieces yet still manage to create an atmosphere of more contemporary elegance. The gorgeous roof top terrace affording wonderful views of the surrounding coastline is the ideal place to linger over a sumptuous buffet breakfast consisting of both Sicilian and international delicacies.

Although the hotel is ideally located to eat out in the evenings why not treat yourself for that special occasion in The Ashbee’s romantic and extremely intimate à la carte restaurant, the St. George?

Located at the back of the Villa are immaculate gardens leading down to an inviting infinity pool; relax here amongst the lemon trees and fragrant vegetation, sipping one of the hotel’s wonderful cocktails whilst admiring the far reaching views towards the coastline of the Italian mainland.

The Ashbee is a perfect retreat for both honeymooners and couples wishing to relax in luxurious yet informal surroundings but at the same time enjoy easy access to a lively resort centre boasting a great variety of shops, restaurants, bars and cultural attractions.

Transfer time from Catania – approx. one hour.

P RICING i n Cl assic Room, BB Low

Mid

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7 Nts 10 Nts

1099 1449

1128 1483

1147 1509

1195 1549

Dates Applicable

1-24 Oct

1 May-14 Jul 8-21 Sep

1-21 Apr

14 Jul-7 Sep

A SELECTION OF GUIDE PRICES (between 18 Mar-31 Oct 16) per person in £ with British Airways flights from Gatwick. Superior room from £49 per person per night. For flight information see page 72. Other dates of travel, room types and single occupancy will be quoted with pleasure. To make a booking see page 73.

ADDED VALUE!

Book at least 45 days prior to arrival and save at least £147 per person per week. OR stay 7 pay 6 (14 pay 12) for holidays started and completed between 18 Mar30 Oct 16, saving at least £84 per person per week (offers are combinable between 18-25 Mar, 29 Mar-30 Apr & 1-30 Oct).

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BOOK ONLINE AT WWW.PRESTIGEHOLIDAYS.CO.UK/SICILY

TAORMINA & GIARDINI NAXOS TAORMINA ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ DELUXE

Boasting stupendous views across Taormina’s bay and Mount Etna from a private and secluded location, yet situated right in the heart of the bustling centre next to the majestic Greek amphitheatre, this historic and famous hotel is regarded by many as the best in the whole of Sicily. Illustrious writers, politicians and royalty have patronised the Timeo over the years and today its owners have lifted this luxurious property to the highest standard ever.

ROOMS The sumptuous 70 bedrooms and suites (photo) are located either in the Timeo’s main building or the Villa Flora and are all luxuriously appointed in an opulent baroque style, evoking the grandeur of Sicily’s past. There are various categories of rooms, junior suites and suites, most of which have balcony or terrace and all boast hairdryer, safe, bathrobes and slippers, mini-bar, satellite TV, Wi-fi and bath/shower.

LIVING The Timeo’s impressive terrace provides an unforgettable breakfast experience! Here the smartly attired waiters offer attentive service as is the case at the enticing pool snack bar, the main bar and the elegant restaurant, which offers one of the most magical backdrops in Sicily. A relaxing wellness centre is on hand within the lush gardens, where there is also an inviting and secluded freshwater swimming pool (heated), adorned with sunbeds.Public areas and lounges are extremely elegant and reflect the magnificence of the hotel’s and Sicily’s rich history.

Taormina’s lovely historic centre is on your doorstep, teeming with trattorias, boutiques and snack bars serving up the best of the island’s ‘granita’.

Should you wish to cool off in the clear blue sea below, the Timeo runs a complimentary shuttle to its sister property, Belmond Villa Sant’Andrea, where guests can enjoy all the facilties of its own private beach, and sample a fine seafood lunch in the alfresco restaurant overlooking the azure waters of the Mazzaro bay.

Transfer time from Catania airport – approx. one hour.

BELMOND VILLA SANT’ ANDREA TAORMINA MARE ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ DELUXE

This luxury hotel is set in the most idyllic of locations, among pine trees and the azure waters of the Mediterranean the hotel lies tucked into one end of the beautiful bay of Mazzaro. Lovingly restored to its former glory, the atmosphere here is that of a grand private home, with personal attention assured, and its elegant terraces afford the loveliest of views across the bay and the hotel’s own private beach.

ROOMS All 64 rooms are light and airy and have luxurious marble bathrooms. Double rooms offer either view of the garden or seaview whilst the deluxe doubles, junior suites and suites boast even more space. Some have lovely balconies or terraces and all rooms offer safe, hairdryer, bathrobes and slippers, mini-bar, satellite TV, Wi-fi, shower or bath.

Inter-connecting rooms for families are also available.

LIVING Excellent food is served at the outdoor Oliviero restaurant. The alfresco bar serves light lunches and snacks, whilst the piano bar is a good place to enjoy an aperitif.

Other facilities at the hotel include an infinity pool (heated), a beauty centre, a private beach and a children’s club (May-Sep and weather permitting).

The centre of Taormina can be easily reached by cable car just a few minutes away.

Complimentary boat trips along the coast are offered during the summer months.

Should you wish to drag yourself away from this heavenly bliss, a short walk takes you to the cable car, whisking you up into the elegant and bustling centre of Taormina’s old town with its stylish shops, cafés and restaurants. Whether on honeymoon, celebrating a special romantic occasion or just looking for a completely relaxing seaside holiday, a stay at Belmond Villa Sant’Andrea will create memories that will linger forever.

Transfer time from Catania airport – approx. 50 minutes.

PRIC IN G in C la ss ic Room, BB

PRICING i n Cl assic Do ubl e Roo m, BB

Low

Mid

High

Peak

Low

Mid

High

Peak

7 Nts 10 Nts

1288 1729

1684 2279

1879 2559

1949 2629

7 Nts 10 Nts

1069 1399

1589 2139

1719 2329

1788 2398

Dates Applicable

24-31 Mar 16-31 Oct

1-17 May 2-6 Oct

27 May-14 Jul 8-22 Sep

15 Jul-7 Sep

Dates Applicable

1-10 May 9-29 Oct

20 May-21 Jun 8-29 Sep

1-14 Jul

15 Jul-19 Aug

A SELECTION OF GUIDE PRICES (between 24 Mar 16-31 Oct 16) per person in £ with British Airways flights from Gatwick.

Superior room from £22 per person per night. Half board from £60 per person per night. For flight information see page 72. Other dates of travel, room types and single occupancy will be quoted with pleasure. To make a booking see page 73.

ADDED VALUE!

SICILY |

BELMOND GRAND HOTEL TIMEO

Stay 5 pay 4 for holidays started and completed between 29 Apr-26 May & 2-15 Oct 16 and save at least £180 per person per stay. Complimentary Kid’s Club (seasonal) at Belmond Villa Sant’Andrea. Complimentary Wi-fi. Complimentary boat cruise along the Taormina coast from mid May to Sep (weather permitting).

A SELECTION OF GUIDE PRICES (between 8 Apr 16-29 Oct 16) per person in £ with British Airways flights from Gatwick.

Superior room from £26 per person per night. Half board from £56 per person per night. For flight information see page 72. Other dates of travel, room types and single occupancy will be quoted with pleasure. To make a booking see page 73.

ADDED VALUE!

Free night offers available, see our website for more information. Beach cabanas available for Belmond guests on Mazzaro beach at a charge. Complimentary Kid’s Club (seasonal). Complimentary Wi-fi. Complimentary boat cruise along the Taormina coast from mid May to Sep (weather permitting).

ASK YOUR AGENT TO RING PRESTIGE HOLIDAYS 01425 480 400

47

TAORMINA & GIARDINI NAXOS SICILY |

VILLA ANGELA TAORMINA ★ ★ ★ ★

Located on the hillside above stylish Taormina, Hotel Villa Angela boasts views to die for … a wide expanse of lovely blue Ionian coastline and the breathtaking magnificence of mighty Mount Etna. Such is the incredible vista awaiting you at this intimate and very friendly hotel, which is justifiably popular with UK visitors.

ROOMS The 27 rooms are furnished in a charming Sicilian style using local materials and all enjoy partial sea and Etna views from their own terrace with sunloungers, table and chairs.

Deluxe (standard) rooms have bath or shower, air-conditioning, hairdryer, satellite TV, Wi-fi, mini-bar and robe and slippers. Deluxe superior rooms have a romantic canopied bed and hydro-massage bath. The junior and Leonardo da Vinci suites are also available (more spacious) as are the Etna suites which benefit from two separate rooms. All suites have whirlpool tub/Jacuzzi.

LIVING The small and friendly Villa Angela is like home from home, offering guests a very warm welcome. This pretty, boutique style property affords wonderful views from its public areas, bar and lounge. Furnishings are typically Sicilian, with colourful ceramics and wrought iron dotted around the hotel, creating a warm and cosy atmosphere. A pleasant swimming pool with sunloungers and parasols completes the picture, providing a relaxing and quiet retreat in which to enjoy a good book!

There is an elegant restaurant with panoramic terrace where breakfast is served until 10.30am. Snacks and lunch are available every day, plus occasionally the restaurant opens for dinner serving sumptuous evening meals to those who may wish to dine in once in a while.

Should you be able to tear yourself away from this delightful setting, the bustling historic centre of Taormina is just a 15 minute downhill walk or a very short journey using the hotel’s shuttle bus (extra cost). This charming property is ideal for couples looking for spectacular scenery in a quiet and elevated location with easy access to the centre of Sicily’s premier resort.

HOTEL CAPOTAORMINA TAORMINA MARE ★ ★ ★ ★

This modern hotel occupies a secluded seafront location situated on its own headland and is just a five minute drive to the old town of Taormina. Overlooking the lovely bay of Naxos on one side and ‘Isola Bella’ on the other, it provides a high level of service and facilities with excellent dining, public areas and its own private beach. Capotaormina, in our opinion, is well suited to couples.

ROOMS Capotaormina’s 190 rooms are spacious with typical Mediterranean style décor and all boast a balcony or terrace. Classic rooms look over the gardens, whilst superior rooms enjoy a seaview, both room types have a bath. Other facilities include hairdryer, LCD TV (satellite), mini-bar and air-conditioning. Junior suites and suites are also available.

LIVING This hotel’s exceptional location and the style in which it has been built gives the feeling of being surrounded at all times by the azure Mediterranean … almost like being on a cruise ship! With no less than three restaurants – La Scogliera for à la carte dining, or buffet lunch, Naxos with its panoramic views for the half board option and Alcantara for breakfast – there is certainly no lack of variety. In the evening enjoy cocktails and relax in the elegance of the Svevo bar serenaded by the piano.

The lower level of the hotel (accessed by lift) leads you to the hotel’s enchanting private beach equipped with sunbeds, umbrellas and beach towels. Here you will also find a snack bar. An amazing rock tunnel leads you to the other side of the headland where there is a lovely seawater swimming pool, set into the rocks at sea level, with terraces, sunbeds and a bar which is open during the summer months.

The hotel operates a free shuttle service to the old town of Taormina six times a day.

Transfer time from Catania airport – approx. one hour.

Transfer time from Catania airport – approx. one hour.

P RICING i n Cl assic Ro om, Bal cony, Gar d en View , BB

PRICIN G in D eluxe Ro om, Bal cony or Terrac e BB Low

Mid

High

Peak

7 Nts 10 Nts

685 849

792 999

853 1089

919 1158

Dates Applicable

1-21 Apr

1-22 May 1-5 Oct

1 Jun-14 Jul 8-21 Sep

15 Jul-7 Sep

A SELECTION OF GUIDE PRICES (between 25 Mar 16-31 Oct 16) per person in £ with flights from Gatwick. Deluxe superior room from £13 per person per night. For flight information see page 72. Other dates of travel, room types and single occupancy will be quoted with pleasure. To make a booking see page 73.

ADDED VALUE!

Book by 31 Mar 16 for holidays started and completed between 25 Mar-31 Oct 16 and save at least £35 per person per week. OR Stay 7 pay 6 or 10 for 8 for holidays started and completed between 25 Mar-30 Apr 16 and 13-31 Oct 16, saving at least £50 per person. Honeymooners receive sparkling wine in room on arrival.

48

Low

Mid

High

Peak

7 Nts 10 Nts

839 1075

939 1215

1119 1447

1249 1629

Dates Applicable

1-31 May 16 Sep-20 Oct

1-5 Jul

19-23 Aug

5-9 Aug

A SELECTION OF GUIDE PRICES (between 22 Apr 16-29 Oct 16) per person in £ with British Airways flights from Gatwick.

Superior seaview room from £14 per person per night. Half board from £38 per person per night. For flight information see page 72. Other dates of travel, room types and single occupancy will be quoted with pleasure. To make a booking see page 73.

ADDED VALUE!

Stay 7 pay 6 (14 for 12) for holidays started and completed between 22 Apr-14 Jul & 2 Sep-29 Oct 16 and save at least £71 per person per week. OR Book by 31 Jan 16 for holidays started and completed between 22 Apr-14 Jul and 2 Sep-29 Oct 16 and save at least £124 per person per week or book between 1-29 Feb 16 and save at least £98 per person per week or book between 1-31 Mar 16 and save at least £75 per person per week or book between 1-30 Apr 16 and save at least £50 per person per week.

BOOK ONLINE AT WWW.PRESTIGEHOLIDAYS.CO.UK/SICILY

TAORMINA & GIARDINI NAXOS

PANORAMIC HOTEL

HOTEL IPANEMA

TAORMINA MARE ★ ★ ★ ★

TAORMINA MARE ★ ★ ★ SUPERIOR

ROOMS All 23 bedrooms are light and spacious with balcony and wonderful views of the Mediterranean and the bay of Isola Bella. Furnished in a contemporary style, rooms offer hairdryer, bath or shower, safe, bathrobe and slippers, air conditioning, mini-bar, satellite TV and Wi-fi. Triple rooms and a family room for up to four people are available on request.

ROOMS All 55 rooms have a side seaview and balcony and are furnished simply yet with old fashioned charm. Facilities include a bath or shower, safe, hairdryer, air-conditioning (June to September), mini-bar and satellite TV. Family rooms are also available. Wi-fi is available free of charge in the reception area.

Boasting fabulous sea views across the enchanting azure bay of Isola Bella this intimate and modern boutique style hotel is ideally placed to take advantage of both Taormina’s lovely coastline and nearby alluring historic centre with its vibrant and colourful atmosphere.

LIVING Ideal for those looking for a relaxing beach holiday in a smart and contemporary environment, the friendly Panoramic fits the bill! Located just a stone’s throw from Isola Bella’s shingle beach and clear blue waters (perfect for snorkelling) yet just a five minute walk to the funicular whisking you up to Taormina’s elegant centre, you really have the best of both worlds.

Admire the delightful sea views from the hotel’s expansive terrace where an appetizing and leisurely Sicilian buffet breakfast is served up each morning. Later on perhaps take a refreshing dip in the inviting rooftop terrace swimming pool, affording yet again marvellous views across Isola Bella’s sweeping cove. Here the pool bar will keep your thirst at bay and during the high season you will also be able to enjoy a light snack, typical Sicilian dish or salad.

Should you wish to drag yourself away from this state of pure relaxation, majestic Mount Etna beckons a visit, as do the authentic and mysterious villages of Savoca and Forza D’Agro, locations used for the filming of ‘The Godfather’.

Transfer time from Catania airport – approx. one hour.

SICILY |

TIGE ESSENT IALLY PRES See Page 72

Located just minutes from Taormina’s beach, the Ipanema is a long standing favourite with the British market, offering good old fashioned Mediterranean hospitality and excellent value for money. In no time at all, the nearby cable car will whisk you off up into the elegant and stylish centre of lovely ‘old’ Taormina.

LIVING The Ipanema has a lovely warm and friendly ambience, with ‘olde worlde’ comfort, a cosy and welcoming bar and a small outside terrace with tables and chairs. The owner, Sig. Bruno, is justifiably proud of the hotel’s delicious home cooked fare served up in the welcoming restaurant, where once a week (normally Friday) guests can enjoy Sicilian folklore music and an extensive buffet meal.

The Ipanema’s ‘piece de la resistance’ however, has to be the hotel’s rooftop sun terrace with its lovely outdoor pool and magnificent views over the bay of Mazzaro. Close by and at a small supplement (€8 per person) guests can take advantage of the hotel’s own private beach club, with use of umbrellas, sunbeds, tennis and five-a-side football and a shuttle service (May to Sept).

This popular hotel is ideal for couples and families looking for a relaxing beach holiday on a half board basis with easy access for exploring both Taormina and other attractions in North East Sicily, such as the Aeolian Islands, Mount Etna and the Val D’Agro, where many of the ‘Godfather’ scenes were filmed.

Transfer time from Catania airport – approx. one hour.

P RIC ING in Twi n/D oub l e Room, Bal cony, Si d e Seavie w, HB Low

Mid

High

7 Nts 10 Nts

669 857

729 916

809 999

Dates Applicable

23-31 Mar

1-21 Apr 1 May-14 Jul 8-21 Sep

1-26 Aug

A SELECTION OF GUIDE PRICES (between 23 Mar-31 Oct 16) per person in £ with British Airways flights from Gatwick. For flight information see page 72. Other dates of travel and single occupancy will be quoted with pleasure. To make a booking see page 73.

PR ICING in Twin/D ouble, Ba lcon y, Seaview, BB Low

Mid

High

Peak

7 Nts 10 Nts

752 947

809 1029

939 1188

1033 1319

Dates Applicable

1-30 Oct

12-21 Apr 1-22 May

15-22 Jul 1-7 Sep

1-22 Aug

A SELECTION OF GUIDE PRICES (between 12 Apr 16-31 Oct 16) per person in £ with British Airways flights from Gatwick.

For flight information see page 72. Other dates of travel and single occupancy will be quoted with pleasure. To make a booking see page 73.

ADDED VALUE!

Stay 7 pay 6 (or 14 for 12) for holidays started and completed between 1-30 Apr & 1-31 Oct, saving at least £54 per person per week. Honeymooners receive complimentary Prosecco and fresh fruit in room on arrival.

ASK YOUR AGENT TO RING PRESTIGE HOLIDAYS 01425 480 400

49

TAORMINA & GIARDINI NAXOS SICILY |

HELLENIA YACHTING HOTEL GIARDINI NAXOS, NEAR TAORMINA ★ ★ ★ SUPERIOR

Officially rated a four star hotel, but in our opinion more a three star superior, the Hellenia Yachting is an attractive and stylish hotel with a superb location, right on the beach and just a gentle stroll into the seafront resort centre of Giardini Naxos.

It’s an ideal property for a relaxing beach holiday with plenty of very good restaurants, cafés and bars in the immediate vicinity of the hotel, so a car is not essential. The elegant resort of Taormina is also nearby (5kms).

ROOMS The 112 rooms are simply furnished and have shower, hairdryer, safe, air-conditioning (approx Jun-Sep), Wi-fi, mini-bar and satellite TV. We are pleased to offer superior rooms with balcony and deluxe rooms with balcony and seaview.

LIVING Despite its number of rooms the Hellenia manages to create the feel of a family run hotel, with friendly staff and an informal and relaxed atmosphere.

The furnishings of the lounges and public areas are very elegant and typically Sicilian in style – here you can linger with a cool drink from the bar whilst contemplating the view before you. Delightful terraces surround an inviting pool with Jacuzzi, spilling directly onto the hotel’s own private beach, where there are sunbeds and umbrellas (weather permitting and supplement payable locally). There is also a small wellness centre available at the hotel (charged). Complimentary Wi-fi throughout the hotel.

A superb weekly Sicilian evening with a sumptuous buffet and music is held by the pool.

(June-September).

Both the centre of Giardini Naxos and Taormina are close by (N.B. many local restaurants and bars close in the winter months). This lovely hotel with its beachfront location really has everything you could desire for a fabulous and relaxing Sicilian holiday!

GIARDINI NAXOS, NEAR TAORMINA ★ ★ ★ ★

Located within well kept extensive beachfront grounds, and just a short walk to the centre of Giardini Naxos, the Hilton offers an impressive level of accommodation and facilities. Comfortably furnished and spacious with its own private beach, this elegant hotel has a number of excellent local restaurants and bars just a few steps away.

ROOMS The 296 rooms are extremely comfortable and well furnished with warm colours and cherry oak. Guest rooms enjoy a balcony, bath, safe, hairdryer, mini-bar, satellite TV, air-conditioning and guest room plus also boast a stunning seaview. Family rooms are available for up to three guests as are various suites. Tea & coffee making facilities available in deluxe rooms and higher.

LIVING As soon as you enter the Hilton there is a feeling of quality and space. The expansive lobby houses a large lounge area with elegant, comfortable sofas and a bar offering only the very best home-made Sicilian pastries and ice-creams. ‘La Sciara’ restaurant serves up traditional Sicilian cuisine, relax over a delicious breakfast at ‘Panarea’ restaurant enjoying the alfresco atmosphere and seaviews from the terrace. Beyond this lies an immaculately kept Mediterranean garden with exotic palms and a superb outdoor pool, which leads to the hotel’s private beach with sunbeds and umbrellas available mid May to Sept (charged). There is also a beach bar serving snacks during the day.

Escape from the midday sun to pamper yourself in the lovely spa with its sauna, Hammam, indoor heated pool and beauty treatments are all payable locally or for the energetic, try out the fitness centre free for hotel guests.

The Hilton provides an extremely comfortable base with easy access to the delights of beautiful Taormina and cultural attractions of Eastern Sicily.

Transfer time from Catania airport – approx. 45 minutes.

Transfer time from Catania airport – approx. 45 minutes.

PR ICING in Su perior Room, Bal con y, BB Win ter

Low

7 Nts 10 Nts

569 709

627 767

643 783

Dates Applicable

1 Nov-21 Dec 1 Jan-31 Mar

1-30 Apr

25-31 Dec

Summer

Low

Mid

High

Peak

7 Nts 10 Nts

608 742

682 847

749 914

804 992

Dates Applicable

1-15 May 21 Sep-31 Oct

25 May-14 Jul 8-11 Sep

15-24 Jul 24 Aug-7 Sep

3-14 Aug

High

P RICING i n Guestro om, Bal cony, BB

A SELECTION OF GUIDE PRICES (between 1 Nov 15-31 Oct 16) per person in £ with flights from Gatwick. Deluxe room from £12 per person per night. Half board from £16 per person per night. For flight information see page 72. Other dates of travel, room types and single occupancy will be quoted with pleasure. To make a booking see page 73.

ADDED VALUE!

Stay 7 pay 5 (or 14 for 10) for for holidays started and completed between 4 Jan-24 May 16 and 21 Sep-31 Oct 16, saving at least £81 per person. OR stay 7 pay 6 (or 14 for 12) for holidays started and completed between 1 Nov-3 Jan, 25 May-2 Aug and 24 Aug-20 Sep 16, saving at least £43 per person.Gala meal on 31 Dec included.

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HILTON GIARDINI NAXOS

Low

Mid

High

Peak

7 Nts 10 Nts

559 699

718 899

834 1036

954 1184

Dates Applicable

1 Nov-9 Dec 2 Jan-16 Mar

1 May-22 Jun 24 Sep-19 Oct

15-27 Jul 27 Aug-7 Sep

9-15 Aug

A SELECTION OF GUIDE PRICES (between 1 Nov 15-31 Oct 16) per person in £ with flights from Gatwick. Guestroom Plus from £10 per person per night. Half board from £27 per person per night. For flight information see page 72. Other dates of travel, room types and single occupancy will be quoted with pleasure. To make a booking see page 73.

ADDED VALUE!

Gala meal on 31 Dec payable locally. Book by 29 Feb 16 for holidays started and completed between 2 Jan-31 Oct 16 and save at least £56 per person per week or book by 31 Mar 16 and save at least £42 per person per per week or book by 30 Apr 16 and save at least £28 per person per week. OR Stay 7 pay 6 (or 14 for 12) for holidays started and completed between 1 Nov 15-15 Jun 16 and 15 Sep-31 Oct 16 saving at least £40 per person per week. Special August Bank Holiday meal on 15 Aug is included for guests on half board.

BOOK ONLINE AT WWW.PRESTIGEHOLIDAYS.CO.UK/SICILY

TAORMINA & GIARDINI NAXOS SICILY |

HOTEL PALLADIO GIARDINI NAXOS ★ ★ ★

Located right in the heart of the bustling seaside town of Giardini Naxos and with views across a road to the lovely sandy beach and bay, this small, friendly and well run family hotel simply oozes Sicily from all angles! This is an ideal hotel and location for those who are looking for a truly ‘Sicilian’ experience with the added bonus of superb and fresh local cuisine.

ROOMS The 19 bedrooms are all comfortably furnished, with warm Mediterranean colours and ceramics. Most have a balcony and shower with the standard rooms facing onto the street /town centre whilst the classic seaview rooms on the other side overlook the lovely bay of Giardini Naxos, whilst superior rooms are larger in size, have a balcony and are seafacing. All rooms offer safe, hairdryer, air-conditioning, mini-bar, satellite TV and Wi-fi. Family rooms with up to four beds are also available on request.

LIVING Full of local charm, with a friendly atmosphere and an ecological/organic approach, staying at the Palladio really gives the visitor an insight into the ‘real’ Sicily. This lovely little hotel is adorned with works of art by local artists and one of the stairways is actually created entirely from the brightly coloured ceramics of Santo Stefano di Camastra!

Much of the furniture has been made by local craftsmen and specifically for each room ... so much so the hotel’s slogan is ‘a handmade hotel’.

The highlight of this unique property has to be its stunning rooftop terrace – here guests linger over a relaxed breakfast, teeming with locally produced delicacies, whilst taking in the wonderful views of the blue of the Mediterranean and the occasional cruise ship balanced on the horizon. Superb seafood meals are also conjured up here from midday right into the late evening; the Palladio’s restaurant has an excellent reputation locally.

Just outside the hotel you find yourself right in the middle of Giardini Naxos, with its numerous shops, bars, restaurants and beach stretching right around the bay. The local bus stop is just opposite the Palladio, enabling guests to easily reach nearby attractions such as Taormina. For culture lovers the ancient Greek site of Naxos lies nearby at the far end of the bay.

Transfer time to Catania airport – approx. 45 minutes.

PRICING i n Stand ar d Room, Balcony, Tow n vi ew BB Wint er

Low

High

Peak

7 Nts 10 Nts

399 472

HOTEL CLOSED

459 529

557 667

Dates Applicable

1 Nov-21 Dec

31 Dec-29 Feb

1-14 Apr

24-30 Apr

Su mmer

Low

Mid

High

Peak

7 Nts 10 Nts

539 646

599 733

669 799

729 887

Dates Applicable

1 May-21 Jun 16 Sep-22 Oct

1-14 Jul

15-22 Jul 1-7 Sep

1-22 Aug

A SELECTION OF GUIDE PRICES (between 1 Nov 15-31 Oct 16) per person in £ with flights from Gatwick. Classic Seaview room from £3 per person per night. Half board * from £17 per person per night. For flight information see page 72. Other dates of travel, room types and single occupancy will be quoted with pleasure. To make a booking see page 73. * Half board is only available from 1 Apr-31 Oct 16.

ADDED VALUE!

Book 6 nights or more and receive a welcome aperitif on arrival as well as a local delicacy tasting.

ASK YOUR AGENT TO RING PRESTIGE HOLIDAYS 01425 480 400

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AEOLIAN ISLANDS Magical and captivating archipelago

Stromboli Nestled amidst the shimmering blue of the Mediterranean Sea between the north east coast of Sicily and the toe of Southern Italy, these Sicilian jewels really are a unique destination.

Comprised of no less than eight islands this fascinating archipelago is volcanic in origin and listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Although a day trip to the Aeolians is possible by either hydrofoil or ferry from the port of Milazzo, the only real way to immerse yourself fully into the colourful local culture, nature and relaxed way of life is by staying at one of the delightful hotels on the islands themselves and using these as a base to explore the wonders of this area of Sicily.

Lipari is the largest of the islands and boasts very pretty and scenic landscapes with some excellent walking. Its charming centre, (just a short walk from our hotels), offers a hub of vibrant activity with plenty of boutiques, cafés and restaurants.

Perfect for mingling with the locals!

All of these fascinating islands boast crystal clear waters, great for snorkelling and diving. Due to their volcanic nature the landscapes are varied providing wonderful backdrops and views, especially at sunrise and sunset. Life here is relaxed and the islanders are historically more or less self-sufficient with fishing and agriculture keeping their economy afloat, together with the more recent phenomenon of tourism.

When you choose Lipari as your base, the other delightful islands are at your beck and call for fabulous day trips out. Slightly further afield lies the enchanting and unspoilt island of Salina, this really is a ‘no shoes no news’ destination, ideal for lovers of nature and a sure-fire tonic to recharge the batteries! Alternatively Vulcano with its sulphurous mud baths along the beach and amazing views from its moon-like craters, trendy Panarea with its white-washed villas

Salina Aeolian Islands

Lipari Vulcano Milazzo

SICILY contrasting against the deep blue of the sea and Stromboli, the most active volcano in Europe, where during an evening visit you can marvel at the fire-red lava tumbling from its summit onto the surrounding shores.

The Aeolian islands are a wonderful adventure and yours to discover, ideal as both a stay put holiday or part of a multi-centre touring trip around Sicily.

IPS T S ’ L PAU

Dubrovnik

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Lipari

e the e x per i en c o t p i r t t… ou take a i at nigh l y o e b r u m s o r e t “Mak over S no.” rework s’ ‘fi e l b i ive volca d t c a t s incre o m Europe’s

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AEOLIAN ISLANDS SICILY |

HOTEL ROCCE AZZURRE LIPARI, AEOLIAN ISLANDS ★ ★ ★

Located in a superb elevated position directly over the waterfront and boasting lovely views of the coastline, this friendly and unpretentious three star family run hotel offers excellent value for money. Its owner, Adriano, takes great pride in the cleanliness of the hotel and the superb food on offer here. Just a ten minute stroll from the charming centre of Lipari with its shops and bars you really have everything at your fingertips for an enjoyable and relaxing stay.

ROOMS All 33 rooms are simply furnished in traditional Sicilian style using local ceramics and have a balcony, most of which also offer fantastic seaviews. Rooms have shower, safe, hairdryer, mini-bar, satellite TV, air-conditioning and Wi-fi. There is also a junior suite offering more space (for up to four) which has a bath.

LIVING As soon as you enter the Rocce Azzurre, Adriano, Carmelo and his friendly team ensure you feel welcome and at home. There is a comfortable lounge, bar and sitting area with plenty of books on offer, this area then leads to the real highlight of the hotel – lovely spacious outdoor terraces literally perched over the sea with breathtaking views!

It’s from this idyllic spot that you can enjoy a relaxing breakfast, appreciate the delicacies of the day and sip a cool after dinner drink whilst admiring the moon’s reflection in the still and clear water. Just below the terraces guests can access the hotel’s private bathing platform jutting out into the bay – ideal for sunbathing, swimming, and snorkelling around the rocky coastline.

The hotel can organise excursions to Stromboli, a small volcanic island close to Lipari, which is in a constant state of mild volcanic activity, to watch the incredible ‘fireworks’ and lava flows plus tours around the lovely island of Lipari itself.

For a morning or pre-dinner stroll the quaint and pretty little town of Lipari beckons.

The Rocce Azzurre ‘ticks all the boxes‘ and offers the perfect base for an enjoyable Sicilian holiday, either for total relaxation or visiting the wonders of this region … the choice is yours!

Transfer time from Catania airport – approx. two hours (to Milazzo, then hydrofoil approx one hour).

PRICES FOR ROCCE AZZURRE are from £737 per person based on two people sharing a room. This is based on a seven night, two-centre holiday including: Flights to and from Catania with British Airways, private transfers throughout, two nights at Villa Belvedere on BB in Taormina, four nights at Rocce Azzurre on HB and the last night at Villa Belvedere on BB in Taormina, ready for the flight home.

ADDED VALUE!

Stay 8 pay 7 all season excluding 26 Jul-25 Aug, saving at least £36 per person.

Honeymooners receive a bottle of sparkling wine and fruit in room on arrival.

ASK YOUR AGENT TO RING PRESTIGE HOLIDAYS 01425 480 400

53

AEOLIAN ISLANDS SICILY |

MEA LIPARI ★ ★ ★ ★

This stylish, whitewashed and low-rise hotel benefits from an elevated position above Lipari town with far reaching views across the attractive bay. The Mea offers a high standard of accommodation and service in a delightful setting and is only a short walk from the cute, yet bustling little centre of Lipari.

ROOMS The lovely 37 rooms all differ in size and location but all boast an exotic ‘Moorish’ ambience, decked out in white and cream shades, with wrought ironwork and high quality stonework and all finished exquisitely. Classic rooms are situated on the ground floor with terrace and sea or garden view, whilst comfort rooms are on the first floor with balcony and garden view. Superior rooms boast seaviews and balcony (first and second floor) and deluxe rooms come with a huge terrace and seaview. All bedrooms offer bath or shower, safe, hairdryer, bathrobe and slippers, air-conditioning, mini-bar, satellite TV and tea/coffee making facilities. Complimentary Wi-fi (and throughout the hotel).

LIVING Vistas across the bay abound from the lovely open plan areas of the Mea; the spacious reception immediately gives a sense of the exotic with its whitewashed archways, leading into the cosy bar area and inviting terrace housing both the breakfast room and the Chimera restaurant. Here, you can dine alfresco and take in the wonderful views from this pretty boutique property. Romance at its best!

The intimate Mea is flanked by some well kept gardens to the back of the property (which the garden view rooms open directly onto), whilst to the front ….sit back, relax and enjoy the most delightful swimming pool, adorned with sunbeds and umbrellas and drink in the lovely views down to the vibrant blue of the Mediterranean.

Should you wish to drag yourself away from this idyllic retreat, the centre of pretty Lipari with its shops, bars and cafés is just a 15 minute’s walk away. Alternatively take advantage of the hotel’s complimentary shuttle bus to nearby Canneto beach, where you are able to rent umbrellas and sunbeds and enjoy a day bathing in the crystal clear waters of this lovely island.

Transfer time from Catania airport – approx. two hours (to Milazzo, then hydrofoil approx one hour).

PRICES FOR MEA are from £763 per person based on two people sharing a room. This is based on a seven night, two-centre holiday including: Flights to and from Catania, private transfers throughout, two nights at Villa Belvedere on BB in Taormina, four nights at Mea on BB and the last night at Villa Belvedere on BB in Taormina, ready for the flight home.

54

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In 2014 and 2015 our Sicily expert, Paul, escorted a tour of this stunning island with great success! We are planning on repeating this in 2016 with one tour departing in April and one in November. During this fully escorted ‘off the beaten track’ tour we will explore the more authentic areas of this bewitching island, visiting a range of Greek, Roman and Norman sites intermingled with local flavour and colour. We will attempt to reveal the diverse cultural, historical and architecutral wonders of this island and will dine out in local trattorias most evenings, allowing you to experience the ‘real’ Sicily.

The exact dates and itinerary are to be confirmed, however to give you an idea of the tour here is a sample itinerary:

Day 02: Morning visit to the medieval Arabic hilltop town of Erice, with free time for a lunchtime snack.

Afternoon visit to the Greek Temple and Amphitheatre at Segesta. Evening meal at a typical local trattoria in Castellammare del Golfo.

Day 03: Full day to Palermo – visit the Palatine Chapel, Norman Cathedral and the gold leaf mosaics at Monreale. Evening meal out at Baglio Fontana – wine tasting and traditional meal with explanation of the tuna fishing industry in Sicily.

Day 04: Depart Castellammare and take a morning visit to the Greek site of Selinute. Fabulous seafood lunch on the beach at ‘Da Vittorio’ in Porto Palo (as seen on ‘Sicily Unpacked’ and Rick Stein’s ‘Great Mediterranean Escapes’). Afternoon coastal drive to Agrigento, where we stay for the next two nights. Light evening meal at the hotel.

Day 05: Visit to the famous Greek site of the Valley of the Temples in Agrigento in the morning. Late lunch and a visit to the working olive oil farm of Mandranova, with olive oil tasting. Overview of nearby Palma di Montechiaro, home of Lampedusa’s novel ‘The Leopard’. Light evening meal at the hotel.

Day 06: Depart Agrigento and drive to the amazing Roman Villas (Villa del Casale), near Piazza Armerina. Guided tour of the Villa and time for lunch at the site itself.

Afternoon drive to the Baroque South East where we arrive late evening into Modica and check into our hotel for the next three

nights. Evening meal in a typical local trattoria in Modica.

Day 07: Morning walk around the baroque treasure of Modica with a short guided tour. Free time for a snack lunch and perhaps chocolate tastings – for which Modica is renowned (hosting an international festival every year). Afternoon visit to Scicli, discovering its fabulous churches and baroque architecture, not to mention popular scenes from the detective series ‘Montalbano’.

Evening meal in a typical local trattoria in Modica.

Day 08: Morning visit to the nearby baroque town of Ibla di Ragusa, UNESCO gem, with a short guided tour. Free time for a snack lunch. Early return to Modica with some time at leisure as this evening we will go out for a farewell dinner at the superb Torre Marabino, originally a Saracen Tower now producing its own organic fare and wines (near to Ispica).

Day 09: We visit the stunning baroque peninsula of Ortigia (Siracusa) with a guided tour and lunch in a typical Sicilian trattoria.

Travel onwards for an overnight in Catania.

Day 10: We leave after breakfast for the drive to Catania airport and our flight home.

Please note this itinerary is provisional and may be subject to change. If you are interested in this specialised tour, please call us for more information or to register your interest.

SICILY |

Day 01: Fly to Palermo then transfer to our hotel in Castellammare del Golfo, where we will stay for the next three nights. Light meal at the hotel upon arrival.

OFF THE BEATEN TRACK

SICILY OFF THE BEATEN TRACK

What’s included: •

Return flights from London

•

9 nights in 3* & 4* accommodation

•

9 breakfasts, 3 lunches and 9 evening meals

•

All local transport and services of local guides

•

Services of an expert Prestige Holidays tour manager throughout

Your only extras: •

Travel insurance

•

Hotel taxes (payable locally at check-out – usually around €3 per person per night)

•

Meals and refreshments where not mentioned/ included

•

Personal expense and tips

Some customer feedback from previous tours: “This has been the best holiday we have been on. All excursions great and at a pace so that they could be enjoyed.”

Mr and Mrs Edward, Leicester “Excellent value for money, very high standard of local food, real sense of Sicilian culture and history and attention paid to individual needs – a really wonderful holiday with a warm group feeling.”

Ms Rowland, Swindon “An exceptional and enjoyable holiday throughout brilliantly conducted by tour guide Paul Stratton.”

Mr and Mrs Feltham, Lee-onSolent “Outstanding in every respect.

The thought behind each day’s programme was evident.”

Mr and Mrs McLean, Cambridge

ASK YOUR AGENT TO RING PRESTIGE HOLIDAYS 01425 480 600

55

AGRITURISMO HOLIDAYS IN SICILY

Experience the real Sicily in authentic character properties and stylish renovated Sicilian farmhouses.

Aside from a superb range of hotels (from three to five star) Sicily offers the more independent traveller an alternative style of accommodation, ‘agriturismo’ properties tend to be small, family run establishments ranging from charmingly restored farmhouses to wineries or olive oil estates.

These delightful character dwellings generally have a smaller number of bedrooms than hotels and operate very much on an informal guesthouse style basis as opposed to the more formal set up experienced in most hotels.

It is fairly commonplace for example in the

evenings before dinner that guests meet up and socialise over an aperitif and evening meals will often be prepared and served by the owners themselves.

It is a perfect way to really step into and experience the true Sicilian culture and way of life. Many of our delightful properties also reflect Sicily’s rich history, in the shape of an ex-Norman Fortress or a restored Moorish ‘Baglio’ or ‘Masseria’ (farmhouse). Some also focus on the outstanding local cuisine and delicious locally produced wines and olive oil, allowing guests to partake in cooking lessons,

learn about olive oil and wine production and enjoy fresh local produce at mealtimes.

Staying in an ‘agriturismo’ property is absolutely ideal for those looking for an authentic Sicilian holiday with gastronomy high on their list of priorities and who would like the freedom of exploring Sicily by car (these properties also offer very good value for money). The locations of our ‘agriturismi’ in different regions of this fascinating island make for a culturally varied and enticing multi-centre itinerary!

Relais Santa Anastasia 56

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Menfi /Selinunte – Agrigento – Ispica Stay at a delightful wine producing dwelling and learn to cook Sicilian style! Beautiful south coast views, beaches and Greek Temples at Agrigento.

La Foresteria Kitchen

AGRITURISMO

One of the joys of Sicily has to be partaking in both preparing and tasting the amazing cuisine it has to offer (using fresh local products) along with the excellent range of wines this beautiful island now boasts. Through our self drive programmes enter into the authentic Sicily and experience the local gastronomy whilst staying at our lovely range of character properties. You may wish to simply indulge yourself in sumptuous evening meals or enjoy the occasion of cooking together with your host (and eating what you have prepared afterwards!). For wine lovers both Planeta Foresteria and Torre Marabino produce their own top notch varieties with both wine tasting and visits to their respective vineyards and wineries possible. Delight in visiting different areas of this fascinating island and sampling the best food and wine each region has to offer!

SICILY |

THE SICILIAN GASTRONOMY EXPERIENCE

Stay next at a working olive oil farm followed by a scenic journey through the baroque region to Ispica, where your fortified tower accommodation serves up its own excellent organic fare and wines.

Total driving distance approximately 290 miles.

Seven night price from £639 per person inclusive of flights from London Gatwick, economy self-drive hire car and hotel accommodation on BB basis at La Foresteria Planeta, Mandranova and Relais Torre Marabino.

Additional charge payable locally for pick up and drop off at different airports.

Cooking Experiences: Each of these hotels offer various cooking experiences ranging from €25€120 per person (payable locally).

Some date restrictions may apply, we have the details please ask us.

ASK YOUR AGENT TO RING PRESTIGE HOLIDAYS 01425 480 400

57

For 2016 we are pleased to offer a new and wider variety of ‘agriturismo’ type abodes which do differ very much in style and how they are run and managed. Some of the properties tend to be more ‘rural’ in feel and will often produce their own wine, olive oil and organic produce – and are run by the owners themselves – whilst other properties, although technically not ‘agriturismi’, are stylish refurbishments of traditional buildings, such as the Sicilian ‘masseria’, but whose facilities and staffing levels tend to be closer to those of a good hotel. Please consult us in order to decide which kind of ‘agriturismo’ would be perfect for your needs.

SICILY |

AGRITURISMO

FEATURED AGRITURISMO STYLE PROPERTIES

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BAGLIO ONETO

LA FORESTERIA

MANDRANOVA

SEE PAGE 21

SEE PAGE 18

SEE PAGE 19

RELAIS TORRE MARABINO

RELAIS SANTA ANASTASIA

Western Sicily, near Marsala

Western Sicily, near Menfi

Western Sicly, Palma di Montechiaro near Agrigento

SEE PAGE 12

SEE PAGE 38

Baroque South East, Ispica

A comfortably furnished Moorish style farmhouse with all the facilities and services of a good hotel, which produces its own local wines and olive oil.

Wine tasting sessions are offered in the hotel’s cellar.

(Charges may apply)

Owned by one of Sicily’s most celebrated wine producers, the Planeta family, this small hotel is situated in an elevated position that is surrounded by vineyards. Also offers cookery courses. (Charges may apply)

nr Cefalu

Working olive oil farm with an informal atmosphere coupled with stylishly designed accommodation and delicious food.

Offers both olive oil taster as well as ‘let’s cook together’ sessions.

(Charges may apply)

Originally a Saracen tower with many of its original features still visible, this small historic property offers wine and food from its own organic farm and vineyard. Cooking lessons and wine tasting available.

(Charges may apply)

A lovely country wine estate in the foothills of the Madonie National Park offering a choice of rustic accommodation in a beautifully restored 12th century abbey. Also offers cooking lessons and wine tasting.

BORGO PANTANO

LA CORTE DEL SOLE

ARTEMISIA

MASSERIA SUSAFA

SEE PAGE 9

SEE PAGE 10

SEE PAGE 14

SEE PAGE 39

Baroque South East, near Siracusa

Baroque South East, Noto

Baroque South East, near Ragusa

Near Polizzi Generosa

Fifteen minutes from the baroque treasure of Siracusa, this restored Baglio makes an ideal base to explore this fascinating region. This quiet, stylish property maintains many of the orginal characteristics that makes this an Agriturismo property.

A lovingly restored authentic Sicilian masseria, historically used for wine production, that has been sympthetically restored to offer a comfortable base from which to explore the surrounding area including the Vendicari Nature Reserve close by.

This lovely masseria offers a truly authentic experience. Offering just 13 rooms, this agriturismo does not have its own restaurant, however guests can try their hand at barbequing, using the facilities provided, or order food in from several local restaurants.

A lovely restored ‘masseria’, in an elevated and remote setting deep in the beautiful Sicilian countryside.

Owned by the same family for over 300 years a stay here really does give an insight into traditional Sicilian living.

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TOURING/MULTI-CENTRE Enjoy more of Sicily in one holiday

Aeolian Islands Due to its size and fantastic variety of landscapes and regions, Sicily makes for an ideal touring destination.

Driving by car, with the exception of the centre of both Palermo and Catania, is a pleasant experience and aside from its excellent motorway network many of Sicily’s roads are relatively quiet, especially in the West, South East and the interior. For either a twin or multi-centre holiday the easiest formula is to pick your car up on arrival at the airport and then drop it on departure at the airport, we strongly recommend hiring a satellite navigation system.

VERY IMPORTANT INFORMATION – YOUR DRIVING LICENCE AND OVERSEAS CAR RENTAL Paper counterparts to UK driving licences were abolished on 8 June 2015. Travellers hiring a car abroad will now need to share their driving licence details with their car hire company by accessing the DVLA website www.gov.uk/dvla/nomorecounterpart and obtain a check-code that allows companies to see whether a driver has penalty points.

Cefalu

San Vito Lo Capo Marsala

Menfi

Milazzo Taormina

Selinunte Agrigento Siracusa Ragusa Noto Scicli Ispica

We are pleased to be able to tailor-make any itinerary and to provide specialist advice on your choice of bases and hotels according to what you are looking for during your stay. To follow are three samples of the kind of twin/multi-centre holidays we are delighted to offer.

THE SICILIAN CLASSIC EXPERIENCE

THE SICILIAN MONTALBANO EXPERIENCE

THE SICILIAN EAST TO WEST EXPERIENCE

San Vito Lo Capo – Cefalu – Taormina

Ragusa – Scicli

Ortigia/Siracusa – Cefalu – Marsala

From the fine white sands of San Vito in the ‘wild west’ with its dramatic mountain scenery and exotic feel, to the soft Mediterranean landscape of Cefalu and Sicily’s verdant North coast.

With mountains on one side, the road hugs the coastline on the other, affording memorable views of the volcanic Aeolian Islands rising from the Mediterannean’s blue yonder like Phoenixes from the ashes! As you turn Sicily’s North East corner the elegant and stylish resort of Taormina awaits you.

The gorgeous baroque jewels of Scicli and Ragusa feature in many of the scenes from ‘Montalbano’, the famous detective series which is filmed in the beautiful baroque South East of Sicily. Indulge in a superb plate of seafood pasta at the excellent ‘Caffe Millenium’ whilst relaxing in the piazza right in front of Montalbano’s police station (actually the town hall in Scicli). Many of the investigative scenes and house calls are filmed in nearby Ragusa, where he is also seen to frequently eat at ‘La Rusticana’. Take a leisurely drive down to the lovely coastline at Punta Secca where Montalbano’s house is located.

Stunning baroque architecture in Ortigia followed by a scenic drive through the island’s centre (perhaps visit the Roman mosaics at Piazza Armerina enroute), dramatic hill top towns and rolling green hills, to the lively resort of Cefalu. Go west enjoying delightful coastal views to Marsala, where you will be able to explore the many attractions of this fascinating area.

Total driving distance approximately 340 miles.

Seven night price from £517 per person inclusive of flights from London Gatwick, economy selfdrive hire car and hotel accommodation on BB basis at Alaba, Artemis and Villa Belvedere.

Additional charge payable locally for pick up and drop off at different airports.

Total driving distance approximately: 163 miles Seven night price from £535 per person inclusive of flights from London Gatwick, economy selfdrive hire car and hotel accommodation on BB basis at Hotel Novecento and La Dimora di Piazza Carmine.

Total driving distance approximately 360 miles.

Seven night price from £589 per person inclusive of flights from London Gatwick, economy selfdrive hire car and hotel accommodation on BB basis at Algila Ortigia Charme Hotel, Hotel Artemis and Baglio Oneto. Additional charge payable locally for pick up and drop off at different airports.

ASK YOUR AGENT TO RING PRESTIGE HOLIDAYS 01425 480 400

59

WELCOME TO PUGLIA Italy’s unspoilt and well kept secret Just under a two and half hour flight from the UK lies the lovely and unspoilt region of Puglia, the ‘heel’ of Italy.

This is a fabulous lesser known region for you to discover, ideally suited to the more independent traveller and, like Sicily, boasts an excellent mix of culture, history, beaches, gastronomy, a warm climate and very friendly people!

We are excited to offer holidays throughout the entire region – ranging from the promontory of the gorgeous Gargano (the ‘spur’ on the Italian ‘boot’) in the north to the crystal clear waters and beaches of the splendid Salento region in the south. Our carefully selected accommodation ranges from friendly three star family run hotels to exquisite character properties such as the ‘Masserie’ (renovated Puglian farmhouses) and ‘Trulli’ (traditional dry stone houses with conical roofs) together with pure luxury ‘chill out’ retreats.

Invaded and colonized by the Romans, Greeks, Spaniards and Normans, Puglia remains an unspoilt and fascinating destination with plenty to see and do … from the UNESCO sites of Castel del Monte (Norman castle) and Alberobello (home of the ‘Trulli’) to the amazing nature and coastline of the Gargano National Park, from the pretty fishing village of Trani with its imposing Romanesque cathedral to the beautifully kept olive oil producing Valley of Itria and from the mystical ‘Sassi’ (caves) of Matera to the stunning baroque masterpiece of Lecce, also known as the ‘Florence of the South’.

Enthusiasts of gastronomy will not be disappointed here! Inland, locally produced sun drenched vegetable ‘antipasti’ are served up in terracotta dishes whilst the Puglian pasta ‘orecchiette’ (little ears) is simply delicious with home-made tomato ‘salsa’, fresh basil and grated ricotta cheese. Around the coastal areas sumptuous seafood and fresh fish are the order of the day. Wine is excellent throughout, especially the local DOCG red grape, Primitivo, whilst Puglia is the single largest producer of olive oil in the whole of Italy!

Peschici

Trani Bari PUGLIA Alberobello

Savelletri Torre Canne Ostuni

Matera

Lecce Otranto

the wooded and dramatic coastlines of the Gargano in the North to the pristine white sands and clear waters of the Ionian and Salento in the Mediterranean South. The long yet narrow region of Puglia means you are never far from the coast, making this an ideal destination to mix and match your holiday between sightseeing and pure relaxation.

Driving is a fairly civilized affair and a Multicentre/twin-centre holiday suits Puglia down to the ground, but if you’d prefer we’d be happy to arrange a private transfer from one area to another. One thing is certain – this relaxed and laid back beautiful area of southern Italy will rejuvenate you and recharge your batteries, but go now whilst Puglia is still a relatively well kept secret!

Beach lovers will be in their element from May to September with a wide choice ranging from 60

Brindisi

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Polignano

PUGLIA

Alberobello

From Ou Exper t r Sicily & Puglia

“I fir st saw the stunning city of Lecce the beginning of a long association in the Salento area of Puglia in 1984 and this wa with Puglia for s me.

This beautiful ye t still largely un known area of experience. Ge southern Italy off nuinely friendly er s visitors a un locals, fabulous excellent wine ique s and olive oil cuisine using fre s, unspoilt beac sh local produc range of UNES hes, mystical hil e, CO World He l top towns an ritage centres su Alberobello. d a ch as the quain t capital of the ‘trulli’, A lovely spread of accommoda tio luxur y ‘masser ia’s (restored Pu n ranging from family run B& B’s through to glian far mhouses for ever yone, chic and ) means that there is some peninsular of the there’s an incredible variety thing of landscapes Gargano in the with the dr am the plateau of the north, the perfe atic ctly kept country ‘Valle D’Itria’ in water s of the Sa sid the lento in the south centre and the white beache e surrounding s and crystal cle . ar Puglia is on the up – this new destination is qu ‘chic’ and ‘of f the beaten tra ickly growing in ck ’ southern Ita popularity – so too discovered lian go and see it no ! w before it beco mes Please don’t he sitate to conta ct me on puglia @p assistance in cre ating your ideal restigeholidays. co.uk if I can be holiday. Wishing of you a fabulous time in Puglia .”

Paul Stratton

Gargano

ASK YOUR AGENT TO RING PRESTIGE HOLIDAYS 01425 480 400

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PESCHICI PUGLIA |

HOTEL ELISA PESCHICI, GARGANO ★ ★ ★

Ideally located right next to the sandy beach on the stunning coastline of the gorgeous Gargano promontory lies the small and family run Hotel Elisa. Just above this charming three star property the enchanting historic centre of Peschici sits on its own raised headland overlooking the pretty bay dotted with colourful fishing boats. Renowned locally for its excellent cuisine this simple Mediterranean style hotel provides a perfect base for a relaxing beach holiday in an authentic environment, with plenty to see and do in the surrounding area.

each evening, the seafood and fish is excellent and the menu varies according to what has been caught that same day!

ROOMS The 44 simply furnished bedrooms are split between the main building and terraces surrounding the swimming pool. Boasting lovely seaviews they all have balcony or terrace, shower, safe, hairdryer, mini-bar and air-conditioning. Complimentary Wi-fi and throughout the hotel.

Just a few minutes’ walk from the Hotel Elisa lies a wonderful sandy beach with bathing where you can relax and while the time away (sunbeds and umbrella are provided from mid May to September) or for the more active an uphill stroll into the centre of Peschici will reward you with friendly locals, shops, bars, restaurants and a real insight into local life.

LIVING This charming family run property oozes Mediterranean authenticity and homeliness from all angles. A welcoming bar adjoins the spacious reception /sitting area, which leads on to the hotel’s restaurant. Here sumptuous freshly cooked local cuisine is served up

Drag yourself away from this haven of relaxation and you will find the beautifully unspoilt national park of the Gargano with lots on offer – from wild orchids to historic hilltop towns, from dramatic coastlines to fascinating ‘grottoes’ and not forgetting the offshore Tremiti Islands with their crystal clear waters. This really is a nature lover’s paradise and should you wish to explore the surrounding area, a car is highly recommended.

An inviting swimming pool sits perfectly amongst the hotel’s terraces affording delightful views across the bay. Sip an early evening aperitivo from this alluring spot whilst admiring the beautiful sunsets – yes, the only place on the east coast of Italy where you can watch the sun go down!

Transfer/driving or time from Bari and Pescara airports – approx. two hours 30 minutes.

PRICING i n Stand ar d Twi n or D oubl e Room, Seavie w, H B Low

Mid

High

Peak

7 Nts 10 Nts

689 834

714 865

848 1032

1032 1293

Dates Applicable

1-22 May 16 Sep-6 Oct

1-30 Apr

15-22 Jul

1-22 Aug

A SELECTION OF GUIDE PRICES (between 1 Apr-30 Sep 16) per person in £ with flights from Gatwick. For flight information see page 72. Other dates of travel and single occupancy will be quoted with pleasure. To make a booking see page 73.

ADDED VALUE!

Book by 31 Mar 16 for stays between 1 Apr-30 Jun 16 & 1-30 Sep, saving at least £31 per person OR Stay 7 pay 6, saving at least £44 per person.

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BOOK ONLINE AT WWW.PRESTIGEHOLIDAYS.CO.UK/ITALY

TRANI PUGLIA |

HOTEL REGIA TRANI ★ ★ ★ ★

Boasting an incredible position right in the historic and pedestrianised heart of the delightful fishing town of Trani the Hotel Regia is housed in a beautiful old ‘palazzo’ dating back to the 18th century. Perfectly located for exploring Trani on foot, the stunning Romanesque cathedral is literally right outside the hotel, plus Trani’s Swabian castle, attractive harbour front and town centre are all at your fingertips.

LIVING This stylish and centrally located property makes an ideal base to explore both Trani itself and the surrounding area. As you enter the hotel a spacious and elegant reception/ sitting area with high vaulted ceilings leads to the Regia’s renowned and highly respected restaurant and bar, spilling outside onto a spacious terrace – perfect for alfresco dining!

ROOMS The Regia’s marriage of old with new perfectly defines the contemporary feel of its 10 comfortable bedrooms. With 6 Classic rooms and 4 Junior suites (which are slightly larger rooms) each of the well designed rooms are individual in their layout and views.

Either with shower or bath, all rooms benefit from attractive views, which vary between historic centre, cathedral, harbour and seaview. Comfortably furnished in a modern style with parquet wood floors all rooms boast hairdryer, mini-bar and air-conditioning.

All bedrooms are located on the first floor. Complimentary Wi-fi (and throughout the hotel).

A few minutes’ stroll through this delightful pedestrianised area takes you to the hustle and bustle of Trani’s attractive harbour front with its colourful fish markets and myriad of excellent seafood trattorias – try the ‘Perla del Sud’ which boasts an enchanting location overlooking the harbour!

‘Culture Vultures’ will not be disappointed as Trani brags a variety of lovely churches and works of art, plus palaces, a castle, a stunning Cathedral and a Jewish quarter – much of which has been crafted in the gorgeous pink – hued stone typical of this lovely town.

Should you wish to hire a car some of Puglia’s main attractions such as Castel Del Monte, Matera, Alberobello , Polignano and Monopoli are all within fairly easy reach; why not consider stopping here en route to the Gargano promontory or making Trani an integral part of a multi centre stay around Puglia? This authentic destination is recommended to independent minded travellers looking to experience the ‘real’ Puglia.

Transfer time from Bari airport – approx. 30 minutes.

P RIC ING i n Cl assi c Stand ar d Twi n or D oubl e Roo m, BB Low

Mid

High

Peak

7 Nts 10 Nts

518 661

633 786

653 814

699 853

Dates Applicable

1 Jan-29 Feb

1 May-14 Jul 8 Sep-22 Oct

1-30 Apr

15 Jul-7 Sep

A SELECTION OF GUIDE PRICES (between 1 Jan-31 Oct 16) per person in £ with flights from Gatwick. Junior Suite from £8 per person per night. For flight information see page 72. Other dates of travel and single occupancy will be quoted with pleasure.

To make a booking see page 73.

ADDED VALUE!

Stay 7 pay 6 for holidays from 1 Jan-31 Oct 16, saving at least £44 per person.

ASK YOUR AGENT TO RING PRESTIGE HOLIDAYS 01425 480 400

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MATERA PUGLIA |

SEXTANTIO LE GROTTE DELLA CIVITA MATERA ★ ★ ★ ★

Located right in the heart of the historical centre of mystical Matera, in the province of Basilicata just over the border from Puglia, Le Grotte della Civita is without a doubt one of the most unique and unusual properties in our entire collection and regularly receives rave reviews! Original caves (known as ‘Sassi’) converted in an eco-friendly fashion into alluring bedrooms create an atmosphere dating back to the period of Matera’s earliest inhabitants during the bronze and stone age. This UNESCO protected town is absolutely fascinating and is a must-see for travellers to the region.

ROOMS The incredible eighteen ‘Grotte’ or caves vary in size according to category from 30m² in a Classic ‘cave’ to 110m² in a Master Suite ‘cave’. All are designed in an open plan style (without separating doors), most with free standing roll top baths (two ‘Classic’ caves have showers only), hairdryer, slippers, air-conditioning, mini-bar and complimentary Wi-fi. Outside each ‘cave’ is a communal terrace boasting breathtaking views across the awe-inspiring canyon of the beautiful and wild Murgia National Park.

LIVING Imagine going back in time into a scene from ‘The Name of The Rose’ or ‘The Passion of Christ’ (it’s hardly surprising that Matera has become a film makers’ mecca). A stay at Le Grotte della Civita is a truly memorable one!

Aside from the unique bedrooms and common area terraces looking across the valley, guests can enjoy a fabulous breakfast in the property’s captivating ancient church, boasting a wide range of locally produced and homemade fare, from warm ricotta cheese to freshly squeezed orange juice and delicious cakes brought to you directly from the oven.

This hearty breakfast sets you up for the day to explore the myriad of steep and winding alleyways which snake their way around Matera’s enchanting historic centre, offering old artisanal shops, ancient churches with archaic frescoes and an imposing cathedral. The ‘modern’ part of Matera is equally appealing and presents a vast array of stylish shops, alluring piazza’s where you can enjoy an Aperol Spritz and watch the world go by and excellent local trattorias, such as ‘Trattoria Lucana’ (apparently Mel Gibson’s favourite haunt whilst filming The Passion of Christ).

Walkers and nature lovers will be in their element here. The canyons and national parkland surrounding Matera boast beautiful wild flowers during the springtime and a wide variety of rare birdlife, especially birds of prey, including the Lesser Kestrel.

Timeless Matera presents a unique opportunity and experience and can be enjoyed in any period of the year. With an easy transfer/drive from Bari airport it makes for an ideal stand-alone break or as part of a fascinating multi centre holiday with Puglia – perfect for the more adventurous and independent traveller!

Transfer time from Bari airport – approx. one hour.

PRICING i n Cl assic Cave, BB Low

Mid

High

Peak

7 Nts 10 Nts

695 899

913 1174

1065 1393

1132 1460

Dates Applicable

1-30 Nov

1-22 Oct

1 May-14 Jul 8-21 Sep

15 Jul-7 Sep

A SELECTION OF GUIDE PRICES (between 1 Nov 15-31 Oct 16) per person in £ with flights from Gatwick. Superior Cave from £22 per person per night. For flight information see page 72. Other dates of travel, room types and single occupancy will be quoted with pleasure. To make a booking see page 73.

ADDED VALUE!

Stay 5 pay 4 for holidays started and completed between 1 Nov-31 Mar, saving at least £42 per person. Honeymooners receive sparkling wine in room on arrival.

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BOOK ONLINE AT WWW.PRESTIGEHOLIDAYS.CO.UK/ITALY

ALBEROBELLO PUGLIA |

CHARMING TRULLI ALBEROBELLO

Situated right in the historic centre of the glorious UNESCO town of Alberobello these comfortable ‘Trulli’ offer the visitor a superb base to enjoy the delights of this unique destination and the surrounding area. Lovely little white stone built conical houses (the unusual roofs were designed to avoid taxes!) provide a totally unique experience for those who want to feel part of local life and really absorb the Puglian culture.

Alberobello also boasts an extremely strategic location for visiting the main attractions throughout the region.

ROOMS Each cute, whitewashed Trullo (you will enjoy your own independent Trullo) offers a comfortable bedroom with ensuite shower room, some have bath and shower, hairdryer and air conditioning or ceiling fan (note that due to their structure they tend to remain cooler during warmer months). Carefully designed and renovated, the furnishings and materials are very much in keeping with local style, boasting stunning exposed stonework. Larger Trulli are also available on request offering two bedrooms for up to five people and have a shared shower room.

LIVING Just a few minutes’ walk from your Trullo, the authentic and unique Trattoria ‘Terra Madre’ awaits you for a sumptuous breakfast of Puglian delights. This superb yet informal bistro also serves up wonderful delicacies every evening using only organic produce from the vegetable beds in the garden out the back! Evening meals, if half board is taken, are offered here too. Complimentary Wi-fi in reception.

Alberobello is an absolute delight to wander around on foot. Teeming with attractive whitewashed Trulli, narrow cobbled lanes adorned with picturesque hanging baskets and colourful flowers lead you to hidden piazzas where you can while the time away over a freshly made cappuccino. Small and characterful shops abound, attractive churches intermingle amongst the Trulli….yet one of the highlights of a stay here has to be the excellent choice of places to eat out in the evenings (all reached on foot), many of which are ‘alfresco’, boasting fabulous Puglian cuisine and wines at very reasonable prices. A gastronomist’s paradise!

For those wishing to partake in activities, there is a wide variety on offer (all bookable locally) – from cooking classes, to gastronomic tours, bicycle tours, Vespa tours and horse riding. Alberobello is located in the lovely Valley of Itria, a truly delightful area on a raised plateau some 450m above sea level, surrounded by gorgeous countryside, yet within very easy reach of both the coastline and many of Puglia’s attractions such as Ostuni, Matera and Lecce, making it an ideal choice also for those who wish to hire a car and explore.

Transfer time from Bari airport – approx. one hour.

P RIC ING i n Tr ull o (2 shar e), BB Low

Mid

High

Peak

7 Nts 10 Nts

464 574

588 712

655 779

667 777

Dates Applicable

1-30 Nov 1 Jan-29 Feb

15 May-14 Jul 8 Sep-5 Oct

15 Jul-7 Sep

17-31 Dec

A SELECTION OF GUIDE PRICES (between 1 Nov 15-31 Oct 16) per person in £ with flights from Gatwick. Half board from £20 per person per night. For flight information see page 72. Other dates of travel, room types and single occupancy will be quoted with pleasure. To make a booking see page 73.

ADDED VALUE!

Complimentary house wine with evening meal for guests booked on half board. Book 60 days prior to arrival at save at least £12 per person per week. OR stay 7 pay 6 between 15 May-15 Oct OR stay 7 pay 5 between 1 Nov-14 May and 16-31 Oct.

ASK YOUR AGENT TO RING PRESTIGE HOLIDAYS 01425 480 400

65

NEAR TORRE CANNE PUGLIA |

CANNE BIANCHE HOTEL & SPA NEAR TORRE CANNE ★ ★ ★ ★

Boasting an idyllic seafront location with a heavenly swimming pool, this chic boutique style property oozes bags of charm with ‘chilled out’ relaxing colour schemes of whites, azures and beiges. With just 55 rooms and a divine spa area it’s the ultimate Puglian pamper getaway for those wishing to simply unwind. The central coastal position of Canne Bianche means that many of Puglia’s attractions are also within easy driving distance.

ROOMS Facing the gardens and some with partial seaviews the 55 Mediterranean style bedrooms are well designed in a contemporary fashion with warm beige and white furnishings.

Bathrooms are decked out in Italian marble and offer either shower or bath. Rooms vary in size depending on category but all enjoy a balcony or terrace (superior plus with Jacuzzi), safe, hairdryer, bathrobes and slippers, mini-bar and satellite TV. Location is either on the ground floor or first floor and interconnecting rooms are also available.

Complimentary Wi-fi and throughout the hotel.

LIVING As soon as you enter the adorable Canne Bianche there is a sense of intimacy and seclusion. The gorgeous open plan lounges, adorned in shabby chic ‘ocean’ style colours and furnishings, gaze out towards an inviting swimming pool surrounded by attractive terraces and comfortable sunbeds. From here just a few steps through the hotel’s gardens lead you directly to the seafront and a narrow stretch of sand – ideal for a refreshing dip!

As with all public areas the hotel’s delightful restaurant and bar benefit from pool and seaviews and during the summer months the poolside ‘Gambero Rozzo’ tempts you with a variety of Puglian delicacies, along with hot and cold snacks.

Enjoy some real ‘down time’ in the Canne Bianche’s intimate and cosy spa centre located on the lower floor of the property. Boasting a lovely warm water lounge pool this oasis of relaxation, designed in local Puglian stone with Moroccan undertones, envelopes its visitors with a myriad of beauty treatments and massages together with a sauna, icewaterfall and Turkish bath. There is even a fitness area for the more energetic!

Bicycles are available for hire locally and the hotel also offers yoga and gastronomic/ cooking packages.

The Canne Bianche Hotel & Spa offers an ideal seafront retreat for couples who are simply looking to relax and unwind in an idyllic setting within close proximity of many of Puglia’s fascinating attractions.

Transfer time from Brindisi airport – approx. 30 minutes.

Transfer time from Bari airport – approx. 50 minutes.

P RICING i n Stan dar d Tw in/D oubl e, B B Low

Mid

High

Peak

7 Nts 10 Nts

624 808

845 1106

1045 1339

1204 1565

Dates Applicable

1-24 Oct

15-30 Jun

24-31 Aug

3-14 Aug

A SELECTION OF GUIDE PRICES (between 1 Apr-31 Oct 16) per person in £ with flights from Stansted. Superior room from £9 per person per night. Half board from £34 per person per night. For flight information see page 72. Other dates of travel and single occupancy will be quoted with pleasure. To make a booking see page 73.

ADDED VALUE!

A range of early booking discounts are available, please visit our website for details.

66

BOOK ONLINE AT WWW.PRESTIGEHOLIDAYS.CO.UK/ITALY

NEAR TORRE CANNE PUGLIA |

HOTEL DEL LEVANTE NEAR TORRE CANNE ★ ★ ★ ★

A visit to Puglia wouldn’t be the same without spending some time on its wonderful beaches and bathing in its crystal clear waters. The lovely Hotel Del Levante boasts a fantastic beach front location close to the authentic little seaside town of Torre Canne.

This really is an ideal spot for both couples and families looking for a traditional beach holiday. It also makes a perfect base to explore fascinating Puglia by car with Alberobello, Ostuni, Polignano, Monopoli and the Valley of Itria all within very easy reach.

LIVING As soon as you enter the Del Levante you really do feel as if you are on holiday! There is an immediate impression of space with vast smart public areas and comfortable lounges, together with a welcoming bar and reception. Bags of room to simply relax and wind down! The elegant and spacious restaurant serves very good Puglian fare each evening with a delightful breakfast buffet in the morning.

ROOMS All 149 rooms are furnished in a traditional Mediterranean style and are light and spacious offering shower (only six rooms have bath), hairdryer, air-conditioning, mini-bar and satellite/Sky TV. A number of room categories are on offer amongst which garden view, seaview, superior with terrace and sunbeds and suites. Interconnecting rooms are also available. Complimentary Wi-fi (and throughout the hotel).

All these polished public areas face towards and lead out to delightful and well manicured gardens boasting a good sized swimming pool (plus a children’s pool), alfresco bar and summer snack bar during the day, which transforms into a seaview pizzeria in the evening (approx. mid June to mid September). From this relaxing area guests can enjoy direct access to the hotel’s own lovely sandy beach equipped with sunbeds and umbrellas, boasting lovely safe bathing and affording views of Torre Canne in the distance.

Families are well catered for with the hotel running a children’s club from approx mid June to mid September and for the more active there is a tennis court and mountain bikes to rent. Boats are available to hire for private excursions along the coast and a short taxi ride whisks you to the neighbouring seaside town of Torre Canne. For those who wish to indulge in some top end pampering guests may visit the nearby Masseria Torre Coccaro (see page 68), which not only boasts a fabulous spa centre but also a golf course.

A stay at the welcoming Del Levante is perfect for those looking for a relaxing beach holiday in Puglia, but would also be an ideal choice as part of a twin-centre combining relaxation with sightseeing.

Transfer time from Brindisi airport – approx. 30 minutes.

Transfer time from Bari airport – approx. 50 minutes.

P RIC ING in Stand ar d Twi n/D oub l e Ro om, BB Low

Mid

High

Peak

7 Nts 10 Nts

486 615

634 799

739 937

957 1213

Dates Applicable

3-31 Jan 1-31 Oct

21 May-8 Jun 1-14 Sep

1-27 Jul

6-10 Aug

A SELECTION OF GUIDE PRICES (between 3 Jan-31 Oct 16) per person in £ with flights from Stansted. Seaview room from £9 per person per night. Half board from £52 per person per night. For flight information see page 72. Other dates of travel, room types and single occupancy will be quoted with pleasure. To make a booking see page 73.

ASK YOUR AGENT TO RING PRESTIGE HOLIDAYS 01425 480 400

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NEAR SAVELLETRI PUGLIA |

MASSERIA TORRE COCCARO NEAR SAVELLETRI ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ L

Enjoying a secluded and quiet position in the attractive Puglian countryside, yet close to the coast, this sublime whitewashed Masseria combines the ultimate in luxury whilst retaining a strong flavour of local culture, style and charm. Torre Coccaro is the perfect place to relax, unwind and be pampered in a delightful oasis surrounded by centuries old olive groves.

ROOMS Most of the 40 characterful and typically Puglian style rooms are spread out in an open plan fashion around the hotel’s grounds in whitewashed low rise buildings, whilst a few are located within the hotel’s main central ‘torre’ (tower). Given the historic nature of the property, rooms vary in size and design, many benefit from a patio/terrace due to their ground floor location, whilst a few of the Junior Suites and Deluxe rooms enjoy a balcony. All rooms are tastefully furnished in white and light cream colours together with exposed stonework resulting in a heavenly marriage between traditional and contemporary (some even have romantic fireplaces). Facilities include bath or shower, safe, hairdryer, bathrobe and slippers, air-conditioning, mini-bar and satellite TV. Complimentary Wi-fi (and throughout the hotel).

LIVING Wandering through a pretty scenario of typical stone white buildings draped in bougainvillea and other pretty Mediterranean flowers you really do experience a sense of space and tranquillity in this exquisite ‘Masseria’. Enjoy a pre-dinner aperitif in the traditionally styled bar before you head on through to the hotel’s elegant ‘Egnazia’

restaurant, where excellent Puglian dishes are served up using the estate’s own fresh produce. During the summer months special themed/buffet style evenings can be enjoyed on the spacious outdoor restaurant terrace.

Tucked away in another corner of the hotel grounds lies a divine lagoon style heated swimming pool embellished with comfortable sunbeds and umbrellas. A pool/snack bar is also on hand to keep you refreshed and where you can indulge in a delicious light lunch.

Torre Coccaro’s beguiling cave-like Aveda wellness centre provides a welcome escape from the midday sun! This delectable retreat boasts a small indoor pool, Turkish bath and a myriad of relaxing massages and treatments.

Just three kilometres away on the soft sands of the Adriatic relax and bathe in clear waters at the Masseria’s own private ‘Coccaro Beach Club’ (hotel provides a shuttle service). Sunbeds and umbrellas are elegantly decked out and a delicious seafood restaurant tempts you with fresh local delicacies.

The Masseria offers a children’s club for 3-12 year olds (let us check dates of operation for you) and there are various activities available both at the hotel and in the nearby vicinity such as cookery courses, horse riding, golf and sailing trips (bookable locally).

Transfer time from Brindisi airport – approx. 40 minutes.

Transfer time from Bari airport – approx. one hour.

P RICING Sup er ior Tw in/Doub l e Room , Terr ace, BB Low

Mid

High

Mid

7 Nts 10 Nts

908 1213

946 1266

1384 1856

1463 1935

Dates Applicable

2-31 Oct

1-15 Mar 29 Mar-20 Apr

8-31 Jul

1-19 Aug

A SELECTION OF GUIDE PRICES (between 3 Jan-31 Oct 16) per person in £ with flights from Stansted. Deluxe room from £32 per person per night. Half board from £47 per person per night. For flight information see page 72. Other dates of travel,room types and single occupancy will be quoted with pleasure. To make a booking see page 73.

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BOOK ONLINE AT WWW.PRESTIGEHOLIDAYS.CO.UK/ITALY

OSTUNI PUGLIA |

HOTEL LA TERRA OSTUNI ★ ★ ★ ★

Tucked away in the heart of the alluring historic centre of the gorgeous hilltop town of Ostuni (nicknamed ‘the white city’) Hotel La Terra is a divine example of a sympathetic restoration of a beautiful 13th century palazzo. This delightful property makes an ideal and comfortable base to visit the ‘white city’ on foot and given Ostuni’s strategic central position in Puglia, a perfect launching pad to visit the region’s many marvels, such as Lecce in the South and Matera to the North.

ROOMS As in the majority of historic hotels La Terra’s 17 bedrooms vary in size and character.

Spread over three floors, some boast high vaulted ceilings with magnificent exposed stonework (deluxe rooms on 2nd floor) whilst others have an ‘attic style’ design with attractive beams and views across the rooftops of this beguiling town (classic rooms on 2nd floor). All rooms are well furnished in a traditional style with shower, safe, hairdryer, air-conditioning, mini-bar and satellite TV. Complimentary Wi-fi (and throughout the hotel).

LIVING The lovely La Terra perfectly reflects the character of Ostuni itself and a stay here will really help to make your experience an authentic one. The entrance to the property, situated just off a characterful alleyway, takes you into the welcoming reception and cosy bar area featuring exposed stonework and vaulted ceilings. Located on the first floor there is a stunning frescoed living room where you can relax over a good book and allow yourself to imagine being whisked back in time to when La Terra was an aristocratic private residence. On exploring further, it’s an absolute delight to discover a number of intimate outdoor terraces with tables and chairs affording wonderful views across the rooftops of Ostuni…the ultimate spot for a romantic aperitif!

A sumptuous buffet breakfast is served in the hotel’s ‘San Pietro’ restaurant, one of the many Ostuni eateries at your fingertips, which range from simple family-run trattorias to Michelin starred affairs.

Aside from lovers of gastronomy those seeking culture and history will also not be disappointed. Ostuni’s medieval centre reflects the different cultures of its colonising civilizations over the centuries, all of whom have had a hand in crafting its unique architecture and various churches, including the magnificent Gothic cathedral.

Throughout this charming centre gorgeous views towards the nearby coastline abound, where a number of lovely clean sandy beaches will ensure a relaxing day out.

Transfer time from Brindisi airport – approx. 30 minutes.

Transfer time from Bari airport – approx. one hour 10 minutes.

P RICING Cl assi c D oub l e Room, BB Low

Mid

High

Peak

7 Nts 10 Nts

518 659

616 779

664 828

819 1016

Dates Applicable

2-31 Jan 1-31 Oct

1 May-30 Jun

1-22 Jul

1-26 Aug

A SELECTION OF GUIDE PRICES (between 2 Jan-31 Oct 16) per person in £ with flights from Stansted. Deluxe room from £11 per person per night. Half board from £22 per person per night. For flight information see page 72. Other dates of travel and single occupancy will be quoted with pleasure. To make a booking see page 73.

ADDED VALUE!

Stay 7 pay 6 for holidays between 2 Jan-31 Oct 16, saving at least £42 per person.

ASK YOUR AGENT TO RING PRESTIGE HOLIDAYS 01425 480 400

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LECCE PUGLIA |

PATRIA PALACE LECCE ★ ★ ★ ★

Enjoying an enviable location right in the heart of the baroque city of Lecce, also known as ‘the Florence of the south’, stepping into the elegant Patria Palace is like stepping back in time. Formerly an 18th century aristocratic private palazzo, this historical hotel has been tastefully renovated, ensuring that the ambience and atmosphere remains one of bygone eras. At any time of the year a stay here makes for a delightful short break or part of a multi centre holiday in Puglia, during which Lecce is a must-see destination.

ROOMS As with most hotels of a historical nature the 67 rooms vary in size and layout – no two are the same! All are furnished in a warm and elegant style and ensure a very comfortable stay boasting safe, hairdryer, bathrobes and slippers, bath, air-conditioning, mini-bar and satellite TV. Complimentary Wi-fi (and throughout the hotel). Delightful touches such as the walled frescoes and high end marble bathrooms certainly enhance the feeling of quality. Deluxe rooms enjoy views of the baroque church opposite, whilst superior rooms situated on the rooftop have the added benefit of a terrace with views across the city.

LIVING Grand spacious public areas adorn the Patria Palace with high ceilings and ‘olde worlde’ elegant furnishings. Let the ever attentive staff prepare a delicious cocktail for you in Danny’s Bar or treat yourself to some exquisite local cuisine in the hotel’s classic restaurant, which also conjures up an impressive breakfast buffet each morning.

A gorgeous wide and sweeping staircase leads up to the bedrooms and an enchanting rooftop terrace affords wonderful views across the baroque delight of this fascinating city.

As soon as you leave the hotel’s entrance you are confronted with breath-taking architecture and buildings, the stunning Basilica of Santa Croce is literally right in front of you! From here it’s extremely easy to explore and discover Lecce’s delights on foot.

Lovers of culture and in particular baroque architecture will be in their element with the great variety of churches and ‘palazzi’ on offer. Characterful shops and boutiques abound and delightful cafés and trattorias spill out onto hidden piazzas and pedestrianised walkways – a people watcher’s paradise!

Lecce provides an excellent strategic base to discover the extremely friendly southern region of ‘Salento’, which is blessed with wonderful beaches, baroque centres, historical towns and a fabulous climate.

Transfer time from Brindisi airport – approx. 35 minutes.

Transfer time from Bari airport – approx. one hour 45 minutes.

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P RICING i n Standard Tw in/Dou bl e Roo m, BB Low

Mid

High

Peak

7 Nts 10 Nts

568 727

649 837

688 865

789 967

Dates Applicable

1-31 Jan

1-20 Apr 1-22 Jul

1-30 Sep

1-31 Aug

A SELECTION OF GUIDE PRICES (between 1 Jan-31 Oct 16) per person in £ with flights from Stansted. Deluxe room from £5 per person per night. Half board from £22 per person per night. For flight information see page 72. Other dates of travel, room types and single occupancy will be quoted with pleasure. To make a booking see page 73.

ADDED VALUE!

Stay 5 pay 4 between 1 Nov 15-31 Mar 16 & 1-31 Jul 16, saving at least £46 per person OR Stay 7 pay 6 between 1 Apr-30 Jun 16 & 1 Aug-31 Oct 16 saving at least £54 pp. Honeymooners receive sparkling wine in room on arrival.

BOOK ONLINE AT WWW.PRESTIGEHOLIDAYS.CO.UK/ITALY

NEAR OTRANTO PUGLIA |

MASSERIA BANDINO NEAR OTRANTO ★ ★ ★

This delightful countryside abode is located just a few miles from the stunning seafront walled town of Otranto in the southern ‘Salento’ region of Puglia, famed for its crystal clear water and pristine beaches. Masseria Bandino is a privately owned and friendly family run Puglian farmhouse which has been renovated in a charming fashion whilst retaining much of its original character and features. A stay here ensures an idyllic rural retreat boasting excellent cuisine and at the same time makes an ideal base to explore the Salento region and its renowned beaches.

ROOMS Most of the Masseria’s twenty rooms are located around the internal courtyard on either the ground or first floor and all benefit from a terrace or patio … perfect for that pre-dinner aperitif! Rooms are tastefully furnished in a ‘shabby chic’ style with light colours and wooden parquet floors yet retain a good deal of character and cosiness.

Together with complimentary Wi-fi (and throughout the hotel), all rooms enjoy safe, hairdryer, shower, air-conditioning, mini-bar and satellite TV. Family rooms are also available on request.

LIVING Ideal for couples and families alike, a friendly informal atmosphere pervades throughout this charming Masseria….you really are made to feel at home! On entering the farmhouse, which is surrounded by lovely meadows and forests, the welcoming reception area

SELF -DRIVE boasts enchanting exposed stonework with vaulted ceilings. This leads both to the cosy breakfast room serving up a wonderful buffet of fresh Puglian fare each morning and the property’s internal courtyard – an alluring characteristic of an 18th century Salento farmhouse. Towards the back of the property lies a very good sized swimming pool with plenty of space for relaxing and beyond that the Masseria’s land extends into wooded countryside, perfect for a stroll or some gentle exercise!

Superb local cuisine and wines are on offer each evening at the attractive Ristorante Bandino; the Masseria is famed locally for its excellent food and testimony to this lies in the high number of Pugliesi who frequent this delightful eatery. Once a week from June to August, you can also enjoy a pasta making demonstration and folklore music evening.

For activity lovers mountain bikes are for hire and there is horse riding available at nearby stables as well as scuba diving and sailing out of nearby historic Otranto (all bookable locally). One of the local sandy beaches (5kms) ‘Acqua Chiara’ boasts clear waters and safe bathing with discounted sunbeds and umbrellas for Masseria Bandino guests.

We include an economy hire car with this holiday for greater flexibility and enjoyment to explore this fascinating area which provides a heady mix of history, culture, fine cuisine and excellent beaches.

Driving time from Brindisi airport – approx. one hour 10 minutes.

Driving time from Bari airport – approx. two hours 20 minutes.

PRICING i n Cl assic Tw in/Dou bl e Roo m, Bal con y o r Te rra ce BB Low

Mid

High

Peak

7 Nts 10 Nts

536 669

605 769

679 847

817 1043

Dates Applicable

1-20 May 12-31 Oct

20 Jun-2 Jul

15-22 Jul

8-12 Aug

A SELECTION OF GUIDE PRICES (between 1 Apr-31 Oct 16) per person in £ with flights from Stansted. Half board from £22 per person per night. For flight information see page 72. Other dates of travel and single occupancy will be quoted with pleasure.

To make a booking see page 73.

ADDED VALUE!

Book by 30 Apr 16 for holidays between 1 Apr-31 Oct 16 to receive a discount. Or a selection of free nights are available, see website for more details.

ASK YOUR AGENT TO RING PRESTIGE HOLIDAYS 01425 480 400

71

FLIGHTS SICILY |

FLIGHTS Below you will find details of flights available to Sicily and Puglia. We will advise you of any additional flights available to your destination. British Airways flights to Catania and Bari offer Business Class at a ‘special rate’, this enables you to travel in more comfort with additional leg room and more generous seating, superior inflight meal and use of lounges at some airports. Business Class can even be booked one way from as little as £149 supplement per person.

Canne Bianche

London Gatwick

London Stansted

Manchester

Birmingham

Catania Palermo Comiso Bari Brindisi Pescara

REGIONAL AIRPORTS

BEST VALUE

So much more convenient for you.

In the event that you find a lower price for an identical holiday from another company let us know. We’ll do our best to match it so that you can still enjoy our superior service here and whilst you are away.

As part of our commitment to providing exactly what you want we are always happy to book any available flight from an airport close to you as part of your booking. Please see above details of most flights, these include charter flights and low cost carriers and can be subject to change.

As you know charter airlines and low cost carriers can charge for hold baggage, pre-booking seats, priority boarding, check-in, extra leg room and in flight meals, we will advise you of these at the time of your enquiry.

OUR LOYALTY REWARD If you travel on two Prestige Holidays in the period 1 November 2015-31 October 2016 you can claim a £40 reduction on your second holiday at the time of booking. This reduction will apply to the holidays of at least seven nights including flights for two or more travellers. For terms and conditions go to www.prestigeholidays.co.uk/terms-and-conditions

AIRFARES Our prices will always include the lowest airfares available from your preferred airport at the time of booking. Airline rules mean that once we book your seats we may have to ask you to pay for your flights immediately.

We will inform you when you book, but rest assured you will benefit from the savings these lower airfares give you.

We will book virtually any flight from any airport for you and incorporate it into your holiday arrangements – it’s all part of our service to you.

Note: Seating by the emergency exits on aircraft can only be occupied by able bodied adults.

TIGE ESSENT IALLY PRES A guide to highlight our value for money properties, which may not have every facility normally found in a Prestige Holidays hotel, but what they lack in facilities they more than make up for with friendly service or good locations. We highly recommend these hotels for the good value they offer.

72

BOOK ONLINE AT WWW.PRESTIGEHOLIDAYS.CO.UK/SICILY

Torre Canne

WHAT YOU WANT FROM A SICILY SPECIALIST Over the last ten years Sicily has had more coverage in the press and media than ever! It’s an incredible destination which is now being rediscovered with a wide variety of resorts, hotels and superb places to visit.

We are in an ideal position to advise you where to stay depending on your priorities and what’s important for you on your holiday. The west or the east side of the island, a traditional style hotel, or a character property which reflects local culture and customs. A stay put option or a twin-centre combining the best of the west with the east … perhaps a touring itinerary …

MORE SICILY

Our Sicily and Puglia programme has been designed by a true expert! He has known Italy for more than 30 years, speaks the language and still visits several times each year. Since we began working in Sicily he has trained our staff here to ensure they have the knowledge and experience needed to organise the most suitable holiday for you. His expertise is always available to you and to us to help with designing any special itinerary you would like.

That’s why we say we can offer an insight into Sicily and Puglia that other operators just don’t have!

SICILY |

MORE FROM A SICILY & PUGLIA SPECIALIST

We’ll be happy to recommend great places to eat or to taste superb wine, let you know where the best beaches are, the most important archaeological sites and of course share with you our very own well kept secrets and whilst in Sicily you can rest assured knowing that our own local resident representative, who is fluent in Italian, will make contact with you via a courtesy telephone call and will be pleased to assist as and when required.

Prestige Holidays’ Love Sicily programme has an exciting selection of properties and we have the expertise, knowledge and contacts to create your perfect holiday in Sicily.

HOW TO BOOK TRAVEL AGENT We strongly recommend you use the services of your local independent bonded travel agent to discuss and book your holiday as their advice and experience can be extremely helpful. If you need additional information they will be able to provide it for you, or will get it from us.

CALL US We have a great team of enthusiastic reservations specialists, with a detailed knowledge of our hotels and destinations. They have the patience and the expertise to ensure you book the holiday that really matches your requirements.

So why don’t you give us a call on 01425 480400 and let us help with your holiday?

BOOK ONLINE Go to www.prestigeholidays.co.uk/sicily, it’s easy, just select your flights from your preferred airport, choose your hotel and we will do the rest. It’s simple! Even if you make an enquiry online, you can still take it to your local independent bonded travel agent with your enquiry reference number and they will be very happy to help you complete your Prestige Holidays booking.

There’s a lot of useful information here too covering latest offers, news and more.

ASK YOUR AGENT TO RING PRESTIGE HOLIDAYS 01425 480 400

73

PRESTIGE HOLIDAYS BOOKING CONDITIONS | 74

The holidays in this brochure are advertised and operated by Atkins Travel Limited trading as ‘Prestige Holidays’, a fully bonded tour operator.

Our flight-based holidays are financially protected by the ATOL scheme. Our ATOL number is 2509. When you buy an ATOL protected flight or flight inclusive holiday from us you will receive an ATOL Certificate. This lists what is financially protected, where you can get information on what this means for you and who to contact if things go wrong.

Please see our booking condition 16 for information, or for more information about financial protection and the ATOL Certificate go to: www.atol. org.uk/ATOLCertificate. Atkins Travel Ltd is a member of ABTA and our package holidays that don’t include a flight are protected by means of a bond held by ABTA. In the unlikely event of our insolvency, the CAA or ABTA will ensure that you are not stranded abroad or will arrange to refund any money you have paid to us for an advance booking.

The correspondence address for Atkins Travel Limited is 1 Fridays Court, High Street, Ringwood, Hampshire BH24 1JA (‘the Company’s Office’). Our office hours are 9-5.30 weekdays and 9.00 – 5.00 on Saturdays.

1.

We want you to have an enjoyable holiday and so that there is no misunderstanding you should carefully read the following terms and conditions as these will apply to any contract you make with us.

2.

The contract is between Atkins Travel Limited (‘the Company’) and the person making the booking and/or the person(s) on whose behalf the booking has been made (‘the Client’).

3.

In order to confirm a booking we will require you or our authorised agent to send us (a) the Company’s on-line booking form properly completed and signed by or on behalf of the Client/an email commitment and (b) the appropriate deposit of £150 per person. See also Clause 11 (e). (c) A contract will exist between the Company and the Client when the Client pays a deposit/full payment to the Company or its agent or the Company has verbally confirmed the booking.

4.

The balance of the holiday price shall be paid by the date to be advised but in any event shall not be more than ten weeks prior to the Client’s departure.

5.

The company may cancel the booking at anytime, but will only do so after the balance due date if either (i) default is made in payment of any monies due by the client and we will retain your deposit, or (ii) for reasons amounting to force majeure outside their control (for example, natural disaster, inclement weather, commencement of hostilities, political unrest, riots, strikes, disease, epidemic or pandemic illness or other situations as might endanger the Client’s safety).

6.

The Client will be informed without delay of a cancellation (for any reason) by the Company and on such a cancellation except where it occurs due to non payment by the client, the Company will offer the Client the choice of an alternative holiday of at least comparable standard (if available) or a full refund of all monies, payable within 10 days of the Client requesting such refund. Compensation may be payable on a sliding scale. See No. 8 (c).

7.

Once you have booked, whatever happens to the value of the Pound, the price of your holiday will not be subject to any currency surcharges or refunds due to the bank contracts we have in place. (a) The price of your holiday is, however, subject to surcharges or reductions on the following items: changes in transportation costs,

including the cost of fuel, dues, taxes or fees chargeable for services such as landing taxes or embarkation or disembarkation fees at ports and airports and means that the price of your travel arrangements may change after you have booked. However there will be no change within 30 days of your departure. We will absorb and you will not be charged for any increase equivalent to 2% of the price of your travel arrangements, which excludes any amendment charges.You will be charged for the amount over and above that, plus an administration charge of £1.00 per person together with an amount to cover agents’ commission. If this means that you have to pay an increase of more than 10% of the price of your travel arrangements, you will have the option of accepting a change to another holiday if we are able to offer one (if this is of equivalent or higher quality you will not have to pay more but if it is of lower quality you will be refunded the difference in price), or cancelling and receiving a full refund of all monies paid, except for any amendment charges.

Should you decide to cancel because of this reason, you must exercise your right to do so within 14 days from the issue date on your final invoice. Should the price of your holiday go down due to the changes mentioned above, by more than 2% of your holiday cost, then any refund due will be paid to you. However, please note that travel arrangements are not always purchased in local currency and some apparent changes have no impact on the price of your travel due to contractual and other protection in place.

8. (a) A major change to the contract is one which would involve a significant change to the holiday (e.g. a significant change in resort). (b) If the Company makes a major change after it has confirmed the booking the Company will immediately inform the Client and offer the choice of an alternative holiday of at least comparable standard (if available) or of a full refund of all monies, payable within 10 days of the Client requesting such refund. (c) Subject to (d) below if the Company makes a major change after the date of payment of the balance of the holiday price it will in addition to the choice offered in sub-paragraph (b) of this clause compensate the Client as follows: Period before departure date

Compensation due payable per person

More than 56 days 56 – 29 days 28 – l5 days 14 – 0 days

NIL £10 £20 £30

(d) The provisions of clause (c) will not apply in the event of a major change or cancellation due to any cause beyond the Company’s reasonable control and without prejudice to the generality of the foregoing, the following shall be regarded as causes beyond the Company’s reasonable control: (i) Act of God, explosion, flood, fire or accident. (ii) War, terrorism or any threat thereof, insurrection, civil disturbance. (iii) Any government or local authority restrictions or regulations. (iv) Strikes or other industrial actions (or threat thereof). (v) Departure delays (to/from the destination) caused by unavoidable technical problems to transport, strikes, industrial action (or threat thereof), weather conditions, epidemic or pandemic illness or other circumstances beyond the control of the Company. (e) We will confirm the airline, ferry company identity when you book. If it changes we will advise you. This may be at the airport on the day of departure.

A change of airline, ferry company is a minor change to your holiday, as is an alteration of less than 12 hours to the

outward/return flight.

9.

The Company will consider any reasonable request by the Client to amend or vary the terms of any holiday contained in this brochure but shall not be under any obligation to comply with such a request. Charges will be kept to a minimum, in some cases this may mean amendment or replacement cost of airline tickets.

10. (a) All reasonable steps to ensure that the holiday is not cancelled or altered as a result of overbooking by hotels will be made by the company. (b) If the hotel is overbooked (despite the Company’s reasonable efforts) and the Company is aware of such overbooking before the departure of the Client the Company will immediately inform the Client and offer the choice of an alternative holiday of at least comparable standard (if available) or of a full refund of all monies, payable within 10 days of the Client requesting such refund and compensation will be payable in accordance with Clause 8 (c). (c) If the Company does not know of the overbooking of the hotel before the Client’s departure the Client shall on arrival at his destination be offered alternative accommodation. If the alternative accommodation is inferior to that originally booked the Company shall also offer reasonable compensation for disturbance.

11. (a) If the Client has to cancel the holiday the Company will charge the Client the cancellation fees set out below. Please note the exceptions to these charges set out in (e) below. A cancellation by the Client must be in writing signed by the person who signed the booking form or sent the email and sent to the Company’s Office and acknowledged by the company. (b) The Cancellation charges (expressed as a percentage of the confirmed holiday price) are as follows: Period before scheduled departure date during Amount of which written cancellation Cancellation is received by the Company: Charge: More than 56 days Deposit/ initial payment 56-43 days 30% 42-29 days 50% 28-15 days 70% 14-8 days 80% 7-0 days 100% Also see (e) below. (c) In the event of a reduction by the Client in the number of persons taking a self contained apartment or hotel room (or hire car) the Company may need to charge for any beds, transfers or seats unused as a result of that reduction.

Please ask for a price. (d) The client may nominate a suitable alternative person to take his place if the original person booked is prevented from going. Costs may arise from such a transfer, which should be advised at least 21 days before departure if possible. (e) Some properties may demand part or full payment even if a holiday is cancelled. Additionally if we have bought aircraft seats in from another tour operator or a public airfare for you once you confirm your intention to travel, we are committed to pay for those seats or hotel rooms in full.

If, therefore, you cancel your holiday at any time after booking, you will be/ may be liable for the cost of those seats or hotel rooms in part or full. In these circumstances we, and therefore you, are bound by the booking conditions of the other supplier. We will also require an increased deposit, the amount will be advised at the time of booking. We will remind you of any exception at the time of booking your holiday.

12.

The Company shall not be obliged to claim compensation for nor to make any allowances or refund for lost or expired or unendorsed tickets, hotel

coupons, or vouchers for any service or accommodation booked. But if any allowance or refund is obtained by the Company it will pass the same on to the Client less any expenses reasonably incurred in obtaining it.

13.

The Company shall act diligently in making arrangements for the Client but the Company shall in no circumstances be liable to the Client for any damage or loss to any luggage or other property of the Client suffered by the Client caused by a party other than the Company its employees agents subcontractors and suppliers and shall not be liable for any consequential damage or loss. The same shall apply for any fatal or other injury or illness suffered by the Client save that the Company shall accept responsibility for the negligent acts and/or omissions of: (a) the Company’s employees or agents and, (b) the Company’s suppliers and subcontractors, servants and/or agents of the same whilst acting within the scope of, or in the course of their employment in respect of claims arising as a result of death bodily injury or illness caused to the Client.

14.

All arrangements made by or through the Company in connection with the booking are subject to the contractual terms of the suppliers providing the services that make up your booking.

These terms are incorporated into this contract and may limit or extinguish your right to compensation. Further, we are to be regarded as having the benefit of any limit on compensation contained in the relevant international convention.

These limit liability for death, injury and loss or damage to baggage. Copies of the contractual terms and international conventions are available on request.

15.

If the contract we have with you is not performed or is improperly performed as a result of failures attributable to a third party unconnected with the provision of the services, or as a result of failures due to unusual and unforeseeable circumstances beyond our control, the consequences of which could not have been avoided even if all due care had been exercised, or an event which we or our suppliers, even with all due care, could not foresee or forestall, and you suffer an injury or other material loss, we will offer you such prompt assistance as is reasonable in the circumstances.

16.

We, or the suppliers identified on your ATOL Certificate, will provide you with the services listed on your ATOL certificate (or a suitable alternative). In some cases, where neither we nor the supplier are able to do so, for reasons of insolvency, an alternative ATOL holder may provide you with the services you have bought or a suitable alternative (at no extra cost to you). You agree to accept that in those circumstances the alternative ATOL holder will perform those obligations and you agree to pay any money outstanding to be paid by you under your contract to that alternative ATOL holder. However, you also agree that in some cases it will not be possible to appoint an alternative ATOL holder, in which case you will be entitled to make a claim under the ATOL scheme (or your credit card issuer where applicable). If we, or the suppliers identified on your ATOL Certificate, are unable to provide the services listed (or a suitable alternative, through an alternative ATOL holder or otherwise) for reasons of insolvency, the trustees of the Air Travel Trust may make a payment to (or confer a benefit on) you under the ATOL scheme. You agree that in return for such a payment or benefit you assign absolutely to those Trustees any claims which you have or may have arising out of or relating to the non-provision of the services, including any claim against us, the travel agent (or your credit card issuer where applicable). You also agree that any such claims may be re-assigned to another

body, if that other body has paid sums you have claimed under the ATOL scheme.

17.

We do not run or control or have any other involvement in any excursions in our holiday destinations and we have not inspected them in any way. All excursion providers are entirely independent of us. If you buy any excursion(s) whilst on holiday, the contract will be between you and the excursion provider. The excursion(s) will not form part of the package or of your contract with us. We cannot accept any liability in relation to any excursion(s) and the acceptance of liability for contracted holiday arrangements in our booking conditions will not apply to them.

18.

The person signing the booking form warrants with the Company that he has the authority of all persons named thereon to contract on their behalf the services requested in the booking form.

19.

In the unlikely event of any dissatisfaction with the accommodation or any of the services provided during your holiday the matter must be reported immediately to the local representative or agent of the Company AND the hotelier so that action can be taken to remedy the problem. If we have not been given the opportunity to rectify the complaint at the time this may affect your rights. If the Client is unable to resolve the problem satisfactorily during the holiday the Client should submit his complaint in writing to the Company at the Company’s Office within 28 days of the scheduled date of return from the holiday advising the Company of the action taken and the names of the people to whom the matter was reported. A written report must be obtained from our representative where we have one. Our liability in all cases shall be limited to three times the cost of the holiday paid to the Company.

We can also offer you an arbitration scheme for the resolution of disputes arising out of, or in connection with this contract. The arbitration scheme is arranged by ABTA and administered independently. It provides for a simple and inexpensive method of arbitration on documents alone with restricted liability on you in respect of costs. Your request for arbitration must be received

by ABTA within eighteen months of the date of return from holiday. The scheme does not apply to high value, or pure personal injury claims. Alternatively AITO & TTA operate similar schemes, please ask for details. For injury and illness claims, you can request the ABTA Mediation Procedure and we have the option to agree to mediation. Further information on the Code and ABTA’s assistance in resolving disputes can be found on www.abta.com.

20.

Every effort is made by the Company to give as accurate a description as possible for the hotels, guest houses, villas and apartments in this brochure. All facilities mentioned in the descriptions are generally available for the duration of the brochure but in certain circumstances (particularly in the low and off seasons) their provision may be limited e.g. weather conditions, maintenance, etc. Please note that the provisions of these facilities and any charges imposed for their use are totally outside the control of the Company.

21.

These conditions are subject to English Law and the jurisdiction shall rest with the English, Scottish or Northern Ireland courts as appropriate.

BOOK ONLINE AT WWW.PRESTIGEHOLIDAYS.CO.UK/SICILY

Air-conditioning and pool heating are not usually on year round, and the dates they operate are subject to health inspections and management control.

Every reasonable effort will be made by Prestige Holidays to advise you if any facility is not available. We feel sure you will understand that under these circumstances we cannot warrant or guarantee that any such facilities will be available during your stay.

If you have a particular interest on holiday, such as tennis or if you will need a children’s club or baby-sitting, we will be very happy to verify that it will be available for you, before you book. Your needs are important – tell us what they are.

HOTEL BEDROOMS Most hotel rooms are with twin beds but double beds may be available on request, if you would prefer a double bed please tick the appropriate box on the on-line

issued on behalf of, and does not commit, the airline(s) mentioned therein, or any airline whose services are used in the course of the holiday(s).

AVAILABILITY OF HOTEL BEDROOMS Prestige Holidays holds an allocation of rooms at most featured hotels and confirmation of your requirement should be immediate. In the unlikely event that this is not possible we will of course email or telephone the hotel, to avoid any delay to our confirmation.

BROCHURE VALIDITY This brochure is valid from 1 November 2015-31 October 2016.

CLASSIFICATION OF HOTELS Hotel classifications quoted are those officially approved in each country. Standards do vary and if you have any doubt as to the suitability of an hotel we are happy to offer advice.

HOTEL ARRIVAL If you are travelling on an evening flight your hotel room is of course reserved for the night of your arrival.

HOTEL CHECK-OUT Normally around 11am but if you prefer a later check-out time we will do our best to assist, although the hotel may make a supplementary charge. Check-in times are normally between 2-3 p.m.

FLIGHTS Prestige Holidays prefers wherever possible to use scheduled flights. This we believe reduces the chance of delays or cancellations, you travel as an individual and may vary the length of your holiday to anything from a weekend up to one month. Some flights can only be altered in an emergency and only at the discretion of the airline, a charge will be imposed. In the unlikely event of a flight delay, it is your airline’s responsibility to care for you (once you have checked in) and keep you informed of the extent of the delay, meals and overnight arrangements (if applicable). We are required to collect passenger contact details, please complete the relevant section on the online booking form. In the event of a cancellation, a major delay or if you are denied boarding you may be entitled to compensation and/or a refund from your airline but not an automatic refund of holiday costs from us. For details go to www.caa.co.uk.

BROCHURE This brochure is issued on the sole responsibility of the tour operator. It is not

PASSPORTS You must hold a valid passport. Please note that a visa may be required if you hold a non – UK passport.

Please read Visa Information. It is a requirement of most airlines to collect passport details from every passenger. Please complete the relevant section on the online booking form. If you are 16 or over and haven’t yet got a passport, our recommendation is that you should apply for one at least 6 weeks before your holiday.

The UK Passport Service has to confirm your identity before issuing your first passport and will ask you to attend an interview in order to do this. Before you go you may find this website useful www.gov.uk/knowbeforeyougo VISA INFORMATION If you are a British citizen and hold a valid UK passport you do not generally require a visa to travel to any of our destinations. However, your own particular circumstances (which will not be evident to us from your booking form) may mean that a visa is required for you or another member of your party. We would strongly urge you to contact the consulate of the country(ies) that you will be visiting to obtain the most up-to-date information before booking with us. We can give you the telephone numbers of consulates. Please cross refer visa and passport requirements above.

HEALTH At the time of going to press no inoculations were required for the country in this brochure. Your doctor will give you the latest information. The Department of Health website www.nhs.uk/ehic will give you the latest information about obtaining a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC). We will make every reasonable effort to advise you of any health rules but must emphasise that it is your responsibility to ensure any such rules are complied with. Illness or pregnancy may require a “fit to travel” certificate from your GP. Please advise us.

REDUCTIONS FOR CHILDREN Some hotels in this brochure do give excellent reductions or even free accommodation for children. See the Added Value box on each hotel. Infants under the age of 2 years sharing parents’ bedroom will be quoted at time of booking as some hotels, may make a hire charge for cots. Our normal charge includes air travel and a standard cot charge. Meals, if taken, will be charged direct by the hotel. In general children 11 years and under sharing parents’ room in hotels (not apartments) are entitled to a discount. Unfortunately children of whatever age occupying adult accommodation are ineligible for these discounts, except where specifically offered. We will quote individually for better value.

There is no reduction for flight supplements. Car seats for arrival and departure transfers can be arranged and will incur a charge, these will be advised at the time of booking.

BABY-SITTING Notice should be given at the hotel to book this service. We recommend you check the qualifications of the sitter offered to you, the costs and the exact service provided.

SOME HOTELS HAVE minimum stays often during the peak season. We will advise you of these at the time of your enquiry.

BOOKING A PRESTIGE HOLIDAY is extremely easy.

We strongly recommend you use the services of your local independent bonded travel agent. His advice and experience can be extremely helpful. If you need additional information on one of our holidays, he will be able to provide it or he will get it for you from us. To avoid disappointment early booking is naturally recommended.

Sometimes of course this may not be convenient and we are always pleased to confirm a late reservation whenever possible.

Simply complete your on-line/ email booking form as fully as possible, include a deposit of £150 per person (unless booking a charter flight, public airfare or a few of our selected hotels – see booking condition 11e), and send it to us. Please do not forget to sign it.

OUR CONFIRMATION We will process your confirmation as

speedily as possible once we have received your booking form and will then forward to you or your travel agent a full confirmation and invoice. It is useful to keep this handy at all times, even when on holiday, as it will assist in settling any queries which might arise.

PAYMENT Please note that full payment is due 10 weeks before your departure failing which we reserve the right to cancel the holiday. You may prefer to pay for your holiday with a Mastercard, American Express or Visa credit card, or by debit card. But if you do we reserve the right to add a 1% or 2% service charge. For your and our protection and security we require the security numbers on the back of the credit card and the address the card is registered to. Please complete the relevant section on the on-line booking form.

ALTERATIONS If you make changes to your holiday arrangements after booking we will be obliged to pass on additional costs and make a small charge to cover any administrative expenses. Any charge will naturally be kept to a minimum.

CANCELLATION If you are obliged to cancel your holiday for whatever reason please refer to our Booking Condition No. 11 where the procedure is outlined.

PRICES There will be no currency surcharges on any holiday in this brochure. Please see Booking Condition No. 7 for full details.

YOUR MONEY When you buy a flight-based holiday, all monies you pay to the travel agent are held by him on behalf and for the benefit of the Trustees of the Air Travel Trust at all times. This is subject to the agent’s obligation to pay it to us. In the extremely unlikely event of our insolvency, any money held at that time by the agent, or subsequently accepted from you by him, is and continues to be held on behalf of and for the benefit of the Trustees of the Air Travel Trust without any obligation to pay that money to us. When you buy a holiday not including a flight, all monies you pay to the travel agent are held by him on behalf of Prestige Holidays at all times.

DATA PROTECTION

THE AITO QUALITY CHARTER

In order to process your booking and to ensure that your travel arrangements run smoothly and meet your requirements we and your travel agent need to use the information you provide (such as name, address, passport information, email address, mobile number, any special needs/dietary requirements, etc.).

Prestige Holidays is a member of the Association of IndependentTour Operators.The Association represents Britain’s leading independent tour operators and encourages high standards of quality and service.

Prestige Holidays abides by the Association’s Code of Conduct and adheres to the AITO Quality Charter which can be viewed on www.aito.co.uk. Visit the website to find out more about the Association or call 020 8744 9280.

We take full responsibility for ensuring that proper security measures are in place to protect your information.

We must pass the information on to the relevant suppliers of your travel arrangements such as airlines, hotels, transport companies, etc.The information may also be provided to public authorities such as customs/ immigration if required by them, or as required by law.

Additionally, where your holiday is outside the European Economic Area, controls on data protection in your destination may not be as stringent as the legal requirements in this country. We will not however, pass any information on to any person not responsible for part of your travel arrangements. This applies to any sensitive information that you give to us such as details of any disabilities, or dietary/religious requirements. In making this booking, you consent to this information being passed on to the relevant persons.

Please note that where information is also held by your travel agent, this is subject to your agent’s own data protection policy.

We will hold your information, where collected by us, and may use it to inform you of offers in the future or to send you brochures. If you do not wish to receive such approaches in the future, please tick the appropriate box on the booking form.

WHEN DRIVING ABROAD You will be required to carry your driving licence, passport and car hire documents (or photocopies of them) securely at all times.

HOLIDAY PRICE Our prices and any supplements are per person sharing a twin room and are based on return flights from London, unless otherwise stated.

Included in our basic holiday price are: • Return flight – including a baggage allowance of one piece unless indicated otherwise on your tickets/ itinerary.

• Accommodation and meal(s) as shown. Breakfast will be continental unless otherwise stated.

• The appropriate Airport Passenger Duty taxes.

• In flight meals or snacks (where included by the airline at no charge).

• Transfers – from the airport to your accommodation and vice versa.

• The assistance of our Representative overseas (where we have one).

Extras to our basic holiday price: • Local Hotel Taxes – usually around €2-4 per person per night are payable directly to the hotel at check-out • Supplements – items such as superior, single or seaview rooms and flight supplements including flight seats and meals need to be added. N.B. If it is a ‘No Single Room Supplement’ period, a transfer cost may be payable.

PRESTIGE HOLIDAYS

HOTEL FACILITIES Throughout this brochure Prestige Holidays refers to facilities offered by hotels such as swimming pools, air-conditioning, entertainment programmes, restaurants, children’s clubs, watersports and other amenities. You will appreciate that hotels, in seeking to keep high standards, must maintain and improve their facilities.

For example – pools must be cleaned and filters changed, air-conditioning systems do occasionally break down. During the low seasons when the hotel is lightly booked facilities and entertainment may be altered or withdrawn. Weather may also sometimes cause watersports and other facilities to be curtailed.

Obviously the availability of all facilities is under the day to day control of the hotel management.

Some hotels do on occasions host conferences or weddings, of which we will be unaware; this may mean restricted or alternative facilities are offered.

booking form. Single rooms are limited and may be smaller. Extra beds or infants’ cots are normally available on request but may tend to ‘cramp’ the bedroom.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION |

We ask that you carefully read this information, only by doing so can both you and we ensure that your Prestige Holiday is everything you expect and we wish to provide. We are delighted to offer advice at any time. Obviously all holidays are subject to availability at the time of booking.

Please note that hotels may charge for the use of some facilities e.g. safes, mini-golf, tennis, saunas, room service, sun beds, umbrellas and nightclubs.

Remember to take out good holiday insurance cover.

LICENCE TO TRADE The law requires that we must provide financial protection in respect of monies paid to us for package holidays. To comply with this requirement we hold an AIR TRAVEL ORGANISERS LICENCE (ATOL) 2509 and have a bond lodged with ABTA.

THE ASSOCIATION OF INDEPENDENT TOUR OPERATORS – THE QUALITY ALTERNATIVE

The air holiday packages and flights in this brochure are ATOL protected by the Civil Aviation Authority. Our ATOL number is 2509. Please see our booking conditions for more information.

CREDITS Brochure concept and content by Paul Stratton.

Photography, thanks to all our featured properties, Luke Kelly, John Miller and Fototeca Enit.

ASK YOUR AGENT TO RING PRESTIGE HOLIDAYS 01425 480 400

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Prestige Holidays 1 Fridays Court, High Street Ringwood, Hampshire, BH24 1JA

Reservations: 01425 480 400 Fax: 01425 470 139 Email: enquiries@prestigeholidays.co.uk

MALVERN WORLD TRAVEL

Ticketing/Admin: 01425 470 448

44 SOMERS PARK AVENUE Canada Portfolio: 01502 567 222

MALVERN

Email: canada@prestigeholidays.co.uk

WORCESTERSHIRE Specialist Sales: 01425 480 600

WR14 1SD

Email: enquiries@prestigegrouptravel.com

Website: www.prestigegrouptravel.com TEL: 01684 562406

malvernworldtravel@hotmail.co.uk www.malvernworldtravel@hotmail.co.uk

www.prestigeholidays.co.uk HOLIDAYS WITH 100% FINANCIAL PROTECTION