The Ionian coast between Catania and Syracuse has very clear water, rocky shores and long sandy beaches. Staying at Etna Lemon Sea you don't need the car to swim: the bay's private beach is 150 metres from the house.
Baia del Gambero is a private bay, and its beach is reserved for residents: about 150 metres (as the crow flies) from the house, with crystal-clear water over a rocky seabed. In summer guests can use three solariums to sunbathe in peace, and the bay has beach volleyball and five-a-side football courts; in July and August there are organised evening events too.
From the terrace you look out over this same sea, with Mount Etna in the background.
“a clear-water beach with plenty of solariums that are never crowded”
This is the nearest. From the house walk along Via Mediterraneo to Viale Adriatico, follow Viale Adriatico up to Viale Ionio and Via del Gambero, then take the footpath straight down to the beach. Google Maps does not know the footpath: follow the map below.
Open the beach in Google MapsThe other way: walk along Via Mediterraneo in the opposite direction and go down to the sea by Via Tirreno, to the rocks. Google Maps has this route too.
Open the route in Google Maps
Limestone cliffs, flat rocks and small coves: clear, deep water, ideal for snorkelling. Bring reef shoes.
A long sandy beach, the nearest to the house with a sandy seabed: shallow water at the shore, good for families with children. It is about 10 minutes away by car.
Kilometres of golden sand south of Catania, with beach clubs, free stretches and Etna on the horizon.
Fine white sand and turquoise water south of Syracuse: one of the best-known beaches in the area.
Wild beaches such as Calamosche and Marianelli inside a protected reserve between Noto and Marzamemi: no facilities, so bring water and shade.
The famous islet below Taormina, a nature reserve linked to the shore by a thin strip of pebbles.
Distances and drive times from the house are approximate and vary with traffic. Every destination is in the distance table.
The classic swimming season runs from June to September, and the sea often stays warm well into October. July and August are the liveliest months in the bay; June and September are quieter, with warm water and empty beaches. But the sea here is beautiful in every season: in autumn and winter the climate is mild, the sunny days are perfect for walks along the cliffs, and the bravest still go for a swim, with snow-capped Etna on the horizon.
What to see beyond the sea
A ground-floor villa apartment on Baia del Gambero: private beach 150 m away, sea and Etna views, 2 bedrooms, up to 6 guests.
Pick your datesYou book direct with Paolo. Today you only pay the security deposit (from €100); the stay is paid on arrival.