OUR Spotlight On column takes an in-depth look at the best things to see and do in popular holiday destinations, as well as shining a light on some lesser-known spots.
This week we’re highlighting the best of the Sicilian coastal resort of Cefalu.
The Sun’s Head Of Travel, Lisa Minot said: “The seaside town of Cefalu is perfect for a weekend break.
“You can spend several happy hours wandering along the promenade by the wide, sandy beach and into the old town, passing the many shops and restaurants in the tiny alleyways.
“We couldn’t resist taking our obligatory Instagram shots at medieval sea gate Porta Pescara, before wandering past the quirky Lavatoio Medievale — an ancient wash house fed by a river that falls into the sea.
“The 12th-century cathedral with its soaring twin towers and elaborate Byzantine mosaics is well worth a visit, with a reviving drink in the square below it just as delightful.
“The Porta Ossuna restaurant and pizzeria is perfect for a lunch on the seafront, we had a table right above the beach for us to enjoy the freshest of salads with burrata and prawns.”
MUST SEE/DO
While its broad, sandy beaches are an obvious draw, the winding cobbled streets of this medieval gem are a major part of its charm.
And all roads lead to the cathedral, the Duomo di Cefalu – a masterpiece of Arab-Norman architecture.
Don’t miss the 12th century Byzantine mosaics inside but for a real behind-the-scenes look, pre-book the Red Itinerary (£11.30) that includes the chance to climb the Norman towers for a fantastic view over the Piazza del Duomo.
Just off the Via Vittorio Emanuele is a quirky piece of history – a medieval laundry where local women washed clothes for centuries on stepped stones, fed by a natural spring.
HIDDEN GEM
The main beach can get crowded in summer but a little effort – and a 20minute walk east – and the Spiaggia di Kalura is a quieter pebble cove with crystal-clear water and dramatic rock formations, perfect for snorkelling.
For fabulous sunset views of Cefalu itself and its dramatic cliff-face backdrop head to the village of Sant’ Ambrogio which offers a snapshot of Sicilian village life without the crowds.
BEST VIEW
It takes a little effort and is best completed early in the day or later in the afternoon in the summer.
But it’s so worth the climb to the top of La Rocca – a huge limestone cliff that looms 268 metres over the town.
It’s a 45minute hike to the top where you’ll find the Temple of Diana, a megalithic structure from the 9th century BC as well as the ruins of a Norman castle.
It also offers fabulous views over the city and the sparkling Mediterranean beyond.
RATED RESTAURANT
It’s hard to get a bad meal in Cefalu with hundreds to choose from in the winding alleys.
On the seafront, the Porta Ossuna restaurant serves up pizzas, pasta and delicious salads with a terrace directly on the beach.
Also ideal for dining by the sea, Lo Scoglio Ubriaco is perched over the sea and is a must for seafood pastas.
And for stand-out pasta dishes, try Pasta e Pasti, legendary for its handmade offerings – go for the Pasta alla Norma or anything made with local pistachios.
BEST BAR
For sunset sips, head to the Jureka Wine Bar on Via Giudecca. There’s a wide choice of tipples with cocktails starting from £9.50.
And for fabulous views over La Rocca and the whole the town, head to the rooftop bar Dokeio at the Hotel La Giara with its multiple roof terraces and late night music.
For day drinking by the Med waves, head to the Bordomari Sea Lounge Bar with great views and cocktails from £9.
HOTEL PICK
Beach babes will love the 4* Astro Suite Hotel, right on Cefalu’s sands and with panoramic sea views.
It’s just a short walk from the historic centre and features an elevated terrace with pool and loungers as well as rooms with balconies, sea views and kitchenettes.
Six nights’ B&B is from £934 including flights from Stansted. See tui.co.uk.