San Vito Lo Capo is considered something of a hidden gem. It's an attractive coastal town lying just outside the lively port city of Trapani at the base of the limestone cliffs of Mount Cofano and to the west of Palermo. This stretch of coastline is charmingly unspoilt and stopping to enjoy the great beaches and excellent seafood is a real treat. The historic Moorish centre of Trapani is worth visiting for its atmospheric network of narrow streets and baroque churches – go in the early evening and enjoy the passeggiata. There are plenty of decent restaurants, with cous-cous, a local specialty. Nearby, the Zingaro Nature Reserve occupies a 4 ½ mile (7 km) stretch of the coastline.

The coves, grottoes and sea stacks that have been etched into the cliffs contrast dramatically with the stunning azure waters. Spend a day anchored here, enjoying the beautiful swimming and snorkeling conditions; then perhaps take a hike along the pebbled shoreline to experience one of the island's most beautiful places. The humid micro-climate supports over 600 species of plants, some quite rare, and ornithologists flock (sorry!) here to observe the birdlife, including eagles, peregrine falcons and a number of owls.

The town of Scopello featured as one of the locations for the movie ‘Ocean’s Twelve’ has a number of good places to eat.  Inland, Erice – with a special affinity for Venus, the goddess of love - is one of Italy’s most spectacular hill towns. The medieval streets meander past churches, forts and cobbled piazzas and there are outstanding 360 degree views – on a clear day you can see Tunisia. Be sure to sample the town’s dolci ericini, sweets made by the local nuns, and the belibrutti marzipan concoctions that are a local specialty. Segesta, the 5th century BC temple founded by the Elymians, is situated on the edge of a deep canyon amid wild and desolate mountains. In the summer months, Greek plays are staged here.