Now Open in Sicily: Grand Hotel Timeo and Villa Sant’Andrea from Orient-Express

Back in January we reported that Orient-Express Hotels had staked their claim to the largest isle in the Med, buying up two properties in Sicily: the Grand Hotel Timeo in the center of Taormina village, and Villa Sant'Andrea in the seaside area of Taormina Mare. Orient-Express enlisted the help of some of Italy's finest craftsmen to spruce up the two hotels. And now, after major renovations, the two properties have reopened in time for the summer season. A few deets about each luxury hotel: The 72-room Grand Hotel Timeo dates from 1873 and features views of Mount Etna and the Bay of Naxos from panoramic terraces and guest rooms. Situated in the hotel's five-acre park, the Wellness Center offers spa treatments by Aromatherapy Associates and Panpuri, a local brand highlighting Sicilian flowers and fruits. Five kilometers away on a private beach on the Bay of Mazzarò, the Villa Sant'Andrea is linked by private shuttle service to the Grand Hotel Timeo. The facilities of both hotels are accessible to clients of either hotel. Most rooms in the villa offer unobstructed sea views, while the beach now has a dedicated beach manager and new sun beds.

Buzz: During the summer, guests can take a complimentary mini-cruise to explore the famous Isola Bella and the Grotta Azzurra in the hotels' private boat.