Vintage Va Va Voom! - Discover La Dolce Vita in Sicily

Hot on the heels of the Hollywood stars and celebrities of yesteryear, take a spin in the world's most glamorous three-wheeler: the Ape Calessino! Discover Sicily's most enchanting scenic spots at a leisurely pace and this vehicle's inimitable charms at Belmond Grand Hotel Timeo, Taormina. Here you can hop aboard an Ape Calessino for a Dolce Vita Tour of Sicily, reliving the spirit of Italy's golden years. As you sit in the back of the soft-top three-wheeler, basking in the warmth of the sun, visit some of Sicily's most historic towns.

From the Greek Theater to Castelmola

The Sicilian retro tour begins at the ancient Greek Theatre directly opposite Timeo. Founded in the third century, the spectacular venue still hosts major concerts and events, including the annual Taormina Film Festival, which celebrates its 60th anniversary in 2014.

The next stop is Casa Cuseni, located high above Taormina's rooftops, a beautiful, honey-stuccoed residence built by British painter Robert Kitson the early 20th century and home to stunning murals and intriguing curios.

In the 1950s and 1960s, the likes of actress Greta Garbo, artist Pablo Picasso, and philosopher Bertrand Russell enjoyed its unique atmosphere.

Lingering awhile at the town's Botanical Gardens, where colourful blooms and architectural works set against the aquamarine backdrop of the sea are guaranteed to enchant, guests are then driven down to the sparkling coast and Mazzarò Bay, from where they can stroll along to the idyllic Isola Bella beach. Considered the region's prettiest island, nestling between twin crescents of beach, it is a divine spot for a picnic.

Then it's time to head up to Castelmola, the pretty hilltop village above Taormina, to enjoy spectacular views. Guests can stop for a glass of almond wine at the historic Café San Giorgio, once a regular haunt of former British prime minister Sir Winston Churchill, who came here to paint.

Shopping and Refreshments in Taormina

Nicely relaxed, guests return in the Ape to Taormina for a delightful wander along Corso Umberto I, the bustling main thoroughfare and shopping area where the American actor and director Orson Welles and writers D.H. Lawrence and Truman Capote once browsed. For a true taste of the dolce vita, guests can try a delicious sweet Sicilian granita - we recommend the fresh strawberry version with whipped cream accompanied by a mouth-watering homemade brioche from the famous Bam Bar.

Since the 19th century, Belmond Grand Hotel Timeo has been offering the finest hospitality to travelers eager to experience the charm of Taormina.

A 6-acre park, luxurious rooms and suites, gourmet cuisine, a splendid swimming pool and, from every terrace, amazing views of the sea. Add the location, directly opposite the Greek theater and within easy strolling distance of the elegant shopping district, and it's easy to see why Belmond Grand Hotel Timeo is one of the most sought-after hotels in Sicily.