Villa Scimone YOUR GUIDE
A GARDEN VILL A IN THE HEART OF TAORMINA
ciao !
Villa Scimone TAO R M I N A * S I C I LY
WELCOME to VILLA SCIMONE Thank you for choosing Villa Scimone and Taormina for your holiday. Within these pages you will find information about the history of the villa – its Family House and Upper House, combined with an A to Z of services and local knowledge. We also give suggestions on a variety of excursions, fun activities and bespoke services that we think will make your stay even more enjoyable and memorable. If anything catches your eye, or you have a request, just let us know and we will make all the necessary arrangements leaving you time to relax and enjoy your holiday. Hope you have a great Sicilian Caper! MICAELA SCIMONE - owner. CONTACT 0039 333 412 2480
Villa Scimone TAO R M I N A * S I C I LY
The HISTORY of the VILLA The original building, the Family House, was built in the early fifties by the German editor Aenne Burda, founder of Burda Moden fashion magazine. The house still retains the original garden layout with its trees and plants, neo-Norman façade and the red marble flooring. The renowned Milanese artist, Luigi Rigamonti, was the driving force behind the renovations when my family bought the house in1997. Aenne Burda and her husband were very much part of 'La dolce vita' in Taormina. They often went dancing at La Giara, the famous nightclub founded in1953 by my father, Egisto Scimone together with my uncle the celebrated Italo-American musician and athlete, Chico Scimone. The fifties and sixties are considered the golden age of Taormina when its prestigious film festival and the Davide di Donatello Award attracted the movers and shakers of the international jet-set. La Giara became the place to see and be seen. World-famous film stars such as Richard Burton, Elizabeth Taylor, Peter O’Toole, writers,aristocrats, professional bohemians and even infamous mafia bosses (Lucky Luciano - to mention one) all spent the nights dancing under the stars to the music of some of the best Italian orchestras. The Scimone family, Chico, Egisto and Amelia lived life to the full in those wonderful years using their natural gifts to entertain guests with their music and charm.
Uncle Chico Scimone with his wife, Spanish actress Aurora de Alba during Carnival gala evening at “La Giara�nightclub, Taormina Photo Vittorio Malambri
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A to Z of SERVICES & LOCAL TIPS AIR CONDITIONING To switch on the air-conditioning just turn the small button you will find in each room near the light switches, from OFF to -- . To get the best from the system please keep the windows and shutters closed, especially during the hottest hours. For environmental reasons we would be grateful if the air-conditioning was turned off when you are not in the house. BAKERY
For your morning croissants (cornetti) and fresh bread head to the nearby local bakery. From the house, turn right and follow the road uphill for five minutes. BEACHES
To reach the beach you can take the cable car or walk to the steps situated at the Belvedere Terrace down from the cable car station (see map at back). The station is a ten-minute walk from the house and the ride itself takes just three minutes. Once you get to the bottom, you are within walking distance of the beaches of Mazzarò and Isola Bella. You can hire loungers for the day, go on boat tours and have lunch at one of the seaside restaurants. There is a car park by the beach, but unless you go early it is difficult to find a free space – especially in the high season.
BUTCHER Try the local butcher, Macelleria Ragusa's stuffed meat rolls (involtini), sausages and meatballs in lemon leaves. From the house, turn right and follow the road downwards for a five-minute walk. CARS AND ROAD SAFETY IMPORTANT ! Please pay particular attention when leaving the front of
the villa or moving your vehicle out of the garage. BE VERY CAREFUL CROSSING THE ROAD OUT FRONT. Local cars travel fast and motorbikes even faster. As you are situated in the centre of Taormina, five-hundred metres from the main pedestrian road, we would suggest using the car as little as possible when in town. CHECK-OUT
When there are new guests arriving, check-out must be by10:00a.m. at the latest. Housekeepers will be at the house by 9:00a.m. to start cleaning. If there are no new guests arriving, a late check-out may be possible. Best to check with Micaela. Please remember to leave the two sets of keys and the remote controller on the main table of the Upper House when checking out. GARBAGE
Please put the rubbish in the appropriate containers provided (glass, organic, paper, plastic/metal, general waste). There is a calendar in each kitchen with a timetable of when the different types of rubbish will be collected. If possible, leave the rubbish bag in the container provided outside the gate after 10:00pm the night before collection day. GARDEN & GARDENERS
Saro and Mario are our wonderful gardeners! If you have a walk around the garden you will find orange and lemon trees and a selection of herbs and spices. Please feel free to pick anything you need for cooking and creating your cocktails.
HEATING
To switch on the heating, just turn the small button you will find in each room near the light switches, from OFF to -- . We would be grateful if the heating was turned off when you are not in the house.
Villa Scimone TAO R M I N A * S I C I LY
HOME COOKED MEALS AT THE VILLA
A great way to enjoy Villa Scimone and its outdoor space is to have a traditional Sicilian lunch or dinner prepared for you by our cook. It could be on the occasion of a birthday or an anniversary, or just for the pleasure of having a night-in with family and friends without having to think about cooking or cleaning. You can even assist if you like – and we can give you some delicious recipes to take back home with you. HOUSEKEEPERS
Angela and her daughter Giusy come on Tuesday and Thursday mornings to clean the house and change the linen. KEYS & GATE REMOTE CONTROL
You will be given keys for each house and a remote control to open the main gate. Press the triangle symbol to open the gate. It will close automatically after a couple of minutes. On the left of the main entrance door, there are two switches to open the door and the gate from the inside. LAUNDRY
The laundry-room is located near the Family House’s back entrance. Please feel free to use the washing machine whenever needed. The house does not have a dryer. LIFT or ELEVATOR
If the doors do not open, please press the button marked < >. If that does not work, please phone the number on the sticker or call Micaela. IMPORTANT ! Please do not allow children to play with the lift.
LOCAL FOOD MARKET HALL
Taorminaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s food market hall is located near Porta Messina. Head downhill from the gateway then opposite the bus stop, next to Pizza Mania, there is a tiny alleyway on your left. (See the map at the back of this booklet.) You will find the market at the end of the alley. It is open everyday except Sundays, between 7:00 -13:00. It is a great place to shop for local fruit and vegetables and features a butcher, a fishmonger and a cheese stall. MOSQUITOES IMPORTANT ! There are mosquito repellent plug-ins provided in all of the
bedrooms. Remember to keep the repellents switched on in the evening and at night time if mosquitoes are a worry. MUSIC SYSTEM
Both houses have built-in music systems. Ask Micaela how you can connect your devices to the system. NIGHT IN WITH LIVE MUSIC
We are happy to arrange a quintet to play during a cocktail party at the house. The quintet is part of the Orchestra a Plettro of Taormina established over 100-years ago, it is the only plectrum orchestra in Sicily. Composed of string instruments such as mandolins, mandolas, guitars and contrabass their repertoire varies from traditional Sicilian and Neapolitan songs to classical music, opera and well-known film soundtracks. ( and yes, they can play the theme tune for The Godfather ) â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Highly recommended! NOISE IMPORTANT ! Villa Scimone is situated in a residential area, surrounded
by homes and hotels. Please keep the sound and noise to a reasonably level, especially after 20.00 hours.
Gardener, Saro holding a prickly pear, locally grown citrus fruit and the villa pool.
Aerial view of the villa with the roof of the Family House bottom left and the Upper House and its terraces in the upper centre.
PARASOLS
Please close the parasols on the terraces when you leave the house or when it is windy, so that you are safe and the parasols are not damaged. SAFE
Both the Family House and the Upper House have safes located in the upstairs hallway closet of each villa. Operating instructions are provided with the safes. SMOKING
All the indoor spaces within Villa Scimone are non-smoking areas. Please use ashtrays when smoking in the garden. SUPERMARKET
The local supermarket is about five-minutes walk from the house; turn right and follow the road going downhill and you will find it on your left. The supermarket is open Monday to Saturday 08.00-21.00 and 8:30-12:30 on a Sunday. Car parking is very limited. During your food shopping it is worth noting that close to the supermarket there are two fishmongers selling local fresh fish. SWIMMING POOL You will find towels for the pool stored in the closet in the downstairs hallway of the Upper House. The gardeners regularly take care of the maintenance of the pool. IMPORTANT ! Please try and avoid throwing heavy objects and stones into the pool as they can damage the waterproof skin of the pool. TAXIS, TRANSFERS & EXCURSIONS
We are happy to arrange transfers to and from the airport and tours to places of historic and architectural interest. We can recommend a local taxi company with English speaking drivers.
To book a transfer, taxi or excursion, call Micaela 0039 333 412 2480 or the taxi company manager, Sebastiano 0039 333 269 5149 And please mention Micaela Scimone when you book. The villa address is: Villa Scimone, Via Circonvallazione no.53, opposite Villa Igiea Additional taxi service: Christian 0039 347 915 9287 or Local Taxi 0039 0942 23000 TV & SKY
The Upper House has a smart television where you can access Netflix with your account. The Family House has Sky cable with channels in various languages. WI-FI
You have free access to the Internet in both houses. IMPORTANT ! The wi-fi code is: Username: Villa Scimone Password: skymoon08 ZZZZZZZZZZZ...
Enjoy a special Sicilian sleep and holiday siesta on our supercomfortable new mattresses. You know you deserve it!
Villa Scimone TAO R M I N A * S I C I LY
Villa Scimone's panoramic view of the Sicilian coastline, the Ionian Sea and the sweeping Gulf of Naxos.
MIGHTY ETNA With a height of 3,350metres and a surface of 1250km2, Etna is the largest active volcano in Europe and certainly the most dominating feature of Sicilyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s eastern coast. A Muntagna or Mungibeddu, as the locals reverently call it, is supposedly the home of Vulcan the Roman god of fire and smithery. The ancient philosopher Empedocles leapt into the crater in 430 BC to prove he was immortal. (Sadly he wasnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t) The ever-present Mt Etna has, to a large extent, shaped both the history and the actual existence of those who live in its shadow. Its lava flows and dust clouds can be devastating, but they also enrich the soil, making the lower slopes and the surrounding plains some of the most fertile areas in Sicily. As a result the volcano is ringed with vast expanses of vines, citrus plantations, pine and chestnut woods. A trip to Etna is a must. Whether you choose a gastronomy tour, hiking up to the top crater, an off-road trip on a 4x4 jeep, exploring the landscape on a quad bike, or even a helicopter ride over the mouth of the volcano, Etna is there to be explored. If you decide to book one of our gourmet or adventure tours, the drivers will pick you up from Villa Scimone at a set time. Mount Etna is a very high mountain and should be respected as such. The weather can change quickly and it can get cold even in the height of summer, so warm clothes and walking shoes are recommended. Etna Tours adventures Etna Food and Wine Tours Etna Jeep Aventure to the Craters Helicopter Trip over Etna Skiing on Etna Contact Micaela to book
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Isola Bella and nearby beaches where designers Dolce & Gabbana shot their Sicilian fashion campaign (insert).
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BEACHLIFE One of the most memorable and magical activities on offer during a stay in Taormina is a boat tour of the beautiful Ionian coastline. Exploring in either a sailing yacht, Turkish caicco or motorboat you can visit Capo Taormina – made famous by the film 'The Big Blue', the atmospheric sea cave, Grotta Azzura with its dappled blue light and the charming Bay of Mazzarò, where locals and the luxury hotel guests enjoy the beachlife. Forsaking boating you can also indulge in the simple pleasures of a sunbed, bar service and a good restaurant on one of two local beaches. Choose between Mazzarò or the fairytale formation of the aptly named Isola Bella. The beaches are in easy reach of the villa via a cable-car ride or you can walk down the steps from the Belvedere Terrace. (See map on Directory page) Once at the bottom, it is a simple stroll to your own Italian beachlife experience. Seaside trips, and excursions on offer include Short boat tour or Motorboat and sailing tours of the coastline Scuba Diving and snorkelling Aeolian Islands voyage
ADVENTURE TRIPS In the countryside surrounding Taormina, there are plenty of adventure activities offering great opportunities to discover hidden Sicily. Exploring on quad bike, by mountain bike, on horseback or on foot you can experience raw nature and enjoy wild panoramas. The trips take in Sicilian wonders that can include volcanic landscapes, craters, canyons intriguing geology as well as plenty of native plants and wildlife. Adventure activities available Alcantara Gorges body rafting Paragliding and hang gliding Quad tours Vintage Fiat 500 self-drive trips TAO R M I N A * S I C I LY Contact Micaela for details and to book
Villa Scimone
SIGHTSEEING TOURS Sicily with its treasures of historical, cultural and natural importance, boasts six sites listed in the World Heritage List. Tours to some of the best sites can be arranged direct from the villa. Our drivers are competent in history and local culture and speak English along with other languages. They will be happy to give you advice on restaurants and information about the area. Pick up from Villa Scimone at a time convenient to you Suggested tours onward from Taormina Madonna della Rocca and Castelmola - great for walking! About 3 hours Catania, Acicastello and Acireale - full day, 6 hours Siracusa - full day, 7 hours Caltagirone and Piazza Armerina - full day, 7 hours Valley of the Greek Temples in Agrigento - full day, 8 hours Noto Valley: Noto, Modica and Ragusa Ibla - full day, 8 hours Palermo - full day, 9 hours
SICILYâ&#x20AC;Ś A GREAT MOVIE SET Breath-taking seascapes, ancient temples and erupting volcanoes are just some of the reasons why so many location managers and directors choose to film in Sicily. Notable movies include: Stromboli - Land of God, Vulcano, The Leopard, Cinema Paradiso, The Big Blue, The Mighty Aphrodites and the final scenes of Oceanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 12 .
The GODFATHER TOUR Of course, the most famous film associated with Sicily is Francis Ford Coppola's classic drama, The Godfather. Extensive parts of the sequels Godfather II and III were also shot in Sicily. Many of the key scenes were filmed in and around Taormina and it is possible to visit these sites on a guided Godfather tour. The trip also takes in unspoilt and typical Sicilian villages chosen as locations in the Godfather trilogy. Contact Micaela for details and to book
Noto Cathedral and below, scene from The Godfather shot at nearby Savoca.
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FOOD & DRINK
IN-HOUSE CHEF & COOKING LESSONS Thanks to its fertile soil, sub-tropical climate and rich mix of cultures, Sicily has one of the most bountiful and eclectic cuisines in Italy. The island has been ruled by Greeks, Romans, Arabs, Normans, Spanish and French, all of whom have left their mark both on Sicily's spirit and its cuisine. To help our guests enjoy this exciting gastronomy, we have devised a few food and drink experiences. One of our most popular events on offer is a home-cooked dinner prepared by our cook. It could be on the occasion of a birthday or an anniversary, or just for the pleasure of having a night-in with family and friends without having to think about cooking or cleaning. To make your evening even more special, we can book the quintet of the Orchestra a Plettro of Taormina, to play for you during the pre-dinner cocktails. A cooking class is also a fun way to learn about the culinary culture of the island. Our chef will teach you how to prepare traditional dishes utilizing only the freshest ingredients available. The lesson concludes with a taste of your own creations accompanied by a glass of Sicilian wine. Perfect for any budding chefs!
Below, our wine tour and tasting at Terrazze Dell'Etna vineyard.
FOOD & DRINK
WINE TOUR & TASTING According to legend, it was Dionysus (aka Bacchus) who brought frivolity and wine to Sicily. Traditional viticulture in Sicily does indeed date back to ancient times, but it is the last twenty years that have seen enormous changes to the island's wine culture. Sicilian wines have now become widely recognized, winning international prizes â&#x20AC;&#x201C; and many of Italyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s finest wines are now being made in Sicily. In order to benefit from this wine revolution guests can book a wine tasting experience in the comfort of the villa, or enjoy a wine tour of the local vineyards. A visit to one of the Etna wine estates will give an excellent insight to the culture surrounding the 'nectar of the Gods'. Guests will be escorted to visit the property, learn about the production, and have the chance to taste the wines produced on the premises accompanied by a traditional lunch. If you opt to stay at the villa, our experienced sommelier will be available exclusively to you to give a masterclass on a range of Sicilian wines. The event will be accompanied by food specialities paired with the different wines. Suggested gourmet and wine experiences Cooking classes with our chef Traditional home cooked meals Etna Wine tasting tours Wine masterclass with expert sommelier Contact Micaela for details and to book
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TAORMINA DIRECTORY
Recommended local places. Contact Micaela to make your bookings TOWN RESTAURANTS Casa Jolie Charming and intimate restaurant. Gourmet cuisine. Don Camillo Family-run, set in a pretty Sicilian garden. Traditional trattoria. La Piazzetta Established family-run restaurant. Nettuno da Siciliano Set in a quiet hotel garden. Local specialities. Pizzeria Villa Zuccaro Large outside dining area under the trees. Great pizza! Ristorante Taormina Panoramic terrace with seaview. Traditional specialities. Tiramisù There is a pair of Tiramisù seafood restaurants in town - both good. Vicolo Stretto A little intimate restaurant set on a rooftop. Gourmet cuisine. COCKTAIL BARS and CLUBS Daiquiri Cocktail Bar Popular cocktail bar set in a lively square with other bars. Hotel Metropole Elegant bar with great views over the Ionian Sea. Live jazz music. Gran Hotel Timeo Stylish bar and a terrace with breathtaking views. Medousa Bistroit Set in a lavish Sicilian garden, elegant bar and restaurant.
Morgana Lounge Bar The most popular lounge bar and club in town. BEACH RESTAURANTS Lido La Pigna Popular beach resort and restaurant. Mazzarò Bay Paradise Beach Club Beach club with swimming pool and restaurant. Letojanni Pizzichella Beach resort and restaurant set on the rocks. Isola Bella LOCAL FOOD PLACES Bam Bar Best granita in town - a must! Bar Pasticceria Etna Modern eatery - great pastries. La Torinese Established deli and wine shop. SPECIALIST LOCAL SHOPS Antichità Panarello Ceramics, jewellery & antiques. Daneu Sicilian pottery and textiles. Don Corleone Ceramics Contemporary ceramic shop. Lo Turco Antichità Antique and contemporary jewellery and objet d'art. Marà’s Handmade Lovely local leather items. Stroscio Gioielli Range of antique and contemporary jewellery.
USEFUL NUMBERS For all advice or emergencies Contact owner MICAELA SCIMONE 0039 333 412 2480 or 0039 0942 21190 EMERGENCY BACKUP NUMBERS Marcantonio 0039 347 547 8111 Alfonso 0039 349 848 2097
Villa Scimone TAO R M I N A * S I C I LY
Villa Scimone
TAORMINA
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Belvedere Terrace (path to beach)
GIARDINI N A XO S
GULF of NAXOS
1. Catania Gate 2. Cathedral of Taormina 3. Piazza IX Aprile (pictured) 4. Corvaja Palace 5. Messina Gate 6. Botanical Gardens 7. Greco-Roman Theatre 8. Mazzaro Beach 9. Isola Bella 10. Capo Tarmina PHARMACY SUPERMARKET FOOD MARKET
YOUR NOTES
ciao !
keep in touch... Address
Villa Scimone Via Circonvallazione n.53 98939, Taormina ITALY Email
info@villascimone.com Phone
0039 333 412 2480 Web
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@villascimone Guide Design BAIZDON.com main photographs Micaela Scimone, Joe Plimmer and Johnny Morris