Exploring Sicily with Children

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Today's post is by Elise M. Daniels,, enjoy.

This winter as my husband and I were discussing our summer holidays, we stumbled across a book about Sicily. I was immediately attracted by the stunning landscapes, the uncommercialized tourist industry, the historical ruins and of course the amazing food! My husband and I are both active 26-year-olds and we are the proud parents of twin 3-year-olds. So, when planning vacations and looking for accommodation in Sicily we want to find locations with nearby activities that all of us would enjoy. I got to researching online and soon found plenty of holiday homes in Sicily, large enough to accommodate our family and a huge range of unique activities nearby.  So we booked our flights and accommodations! I must admit, never have I been more satisfied with a vacation. And here is why:

Beaches! Sicily is surrounded by the turquoise waters of the Mediterranean. The island is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, and there is a huge variety. From fine sand to pebbles, crystal waters to the enchanting Turkish Steps, there is something for everyone. It felt like I was on a different island in every beach we visited. Our kids played with the little Sicilians as we lounged, tanned, and played in the tranquil sea. 

We also took a trip to the theme and waterpark “Etnaland,” which is near Catania. This is the biggest adventure park on the island and it has all kinds of water games and attractions for every age group. My kids loved the waterslides and the life-sized dinosaur exhibit! There were some great restaurants, relax areas, and even a zoo. This was probably the twins’ favorite day. 

Bio Parco was another fun day, especially if you have animal lovers in the family (like me!) There is a huge variety of animals and lots of cute little picnic areas. If you want a really hands on nature experience, check out the Eco Campus Casaboli. We didn’t go there, but the park is for kids of all ages and you get a very up close and personal safari experience. Sounds like fun, so we will have to come back!

My husband is a History teacher, and in particular he loves Greek history. Sicily was a haven for him, with all of its archaeological treasures. You can’t go to Sicily without stopping in Agrigento at the Valley of the Temples. There are eight stunningly well-preserved temples on one little hill! They are some of the best preserved in the world. It is also completely stroller friendly. The kids can hop out and play, and there are even some goats that my kids loved. When it heated up around lunchtime we headed down to the coast. There is a beach called San Leone with lovely clean sand, clear water, cute restaurants and umbrellas for rent. The twins played to their hearts content before settling down for a nice afternoon nap in the shade. I’ll admit, I dozed off myself too! Looking at ruins all day is quite tiring, yet stimulating at the same time. 

There are tons of activities for kids and adults to do together in Sicily. We will definitely come back, especially because the twins made friends with some Sicilian kids on the beach! The parents were wonderful too, and even invited us to their home for dinner. Sicilians definitely live up to the stereotype that the southerners have more fun. The Sicilians we met were warm, friendly, welcoming and treated us like family. They offered to host us for the next visit, and we certainly hope they come visit us in London!

Mummy B xoxox