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Village · Taormina, Sicília
Castelmola
Medieval village atop a rock about 500 metres above sea level, above Taormina. It has castle ruins, stone streets and wide views of the coast and Mount Etna.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
Discover
About Castelmola
Castelmola sits atop a crag, just over 500 metres above sea level, immediately above Taormina. It is a small village of stone streets and low houses, easily explored on foot in a short time.
At the highest point lie the ruins of the castle that gave the village its name, with ancient walls and a viewpoint. From there you can see Taormina below, the bay of Naxos, the Ionian coast and, on clear days, Mount Etna and the coast of Calabria across the strait.
The village is known for almond wine, a sweet wine served in the bars of the main square.
On the route between Taormina and Castelmola are the Castello di Taormina on Monte Tauro, which is part of the Parco Archeologico Naxos Taormina, and the chapel of the Madonna della Rocca, set into the rock.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
About 1h30 to 2 hours, including time for the bus ascent and descent.
Best time
Late afternoon, when the low light illuminates the coast and the heat lessens. On days with low cloud the view disappears; choose clear-sky days.
How to get there
By local bus from Taormina terminal in about 15 minutes. On foot there is a steep trail with steps that passes the Madonna della Rocca and the Castello di Taormina. By car there are few parking spaces.
Tip
Take the bus up and descend on foot via the trail if you have the stamina and sturdy shoes. Try the almond wine in moderation, as it is sweet and strong.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Castelmola
How do you get to Castelmola from Taormina?
By city bus in about 15 minutes, or on foot via a steep trail with steps. Check the bus schedules.
What is almond wine?
A sweet wine flavored with almond, typical of Castelmola, served in the village's bars.
Is it worth going up?
Yes, for the views of Taormina, the coast and Etna, and for the stone village. You can do the round trip in an afternoon.
Is the Castello di Taormina in Castelmola?
No. It is on Monte Tauro, between Taormina and Castelmola, and is part of the archaeological park. The footpath passes nearby.