Beautiful Sicily

Recently I was browsing through some photos and came across pics of the Easter Camp spent in Oliveri, Northern Sicily - not far from Messina - by 'we' I mean St Michael School Scouts Group. The scenery is simply stunning and much can be found to explore on this lovely island full of historic places, a combination of hills and beaches.

Oliveri is a camping / touristic zone not far from Messina. During the summer it tends to be busy, but during Easter - which is when we went - it is rather quiet, which I tend to prefer. Not far from Oliveri is the ancient village of Tindari, which lies on a hill top. Legend has it that a ship was wrecked close to this high village, and the Madonna aboard the vessel was a black Madonna (no political incorrectness intended). Until then there had been disputes as to the Madonna's skin colour, and the Madonna in this church is supposed to be the same one that was found on the wrecked ship. To explain, this hilltop village is no more than half an hour's bus ride from the nearest beach area (which is in fact Oliveri, where we were) and actually is an instance of a lovely contrast between hilltop / beach that Sicily is so famous for.

Close to Oliveri there is also a nature reserve, which is very large and has a natural lagoon, flanked by the pebblu beach and the sea, which provided amazing sights. We swam at the beach, further down from the nature reserve - and, it being only early April, froze, seeing that we are used to the warm Mediterranean waters.

We also visited Mount Etna - which is a few hours away by coach, and the beautiful Taormina. The crystal waters looked very tempting but we had little time since we had to get back in time for dinner.

Oliveri is populated with a number of camping sites, which include areas for those who want to pitch up tents or come with their caravans as well as fixed caravans (little houses, more likely). There is also a communal dining room for those who want to book on a breakfast or half board basis. The area is full of pizzerias, cafeterias and restaurants too.

Sicily is often underestimated because it is not on the mainland. It is an ideal location for biking holidays or camping. Other parts of Sicily contain a number of historic sites such as temples and amphitheatres from the Roman empire. The flora there is very mixed - a combination of Mediterranean greenery and yet some tall dark trees you would find in more mountainous areas can also be found. There are numerous little country roads between towns and villages, for those that want to explore. The coasts sport beautiful long beaches for those that want to be nearer the sea.