The Saracens Coast, Messina

The Saracens Coast is a beachfront section spanning from Cape Orlando up to Tindari, which contains the Gioiosa Marea Beach, the promontory of Cape Calava, and the San Giorgio Bay. All along the Sarcean Coast, lengthy stretches of beach alternate with rocky promontories, both sharing the same crystal clear waters which fade between light and deep shades of blue just to glow with a touch of red as the sun sets down through the silhouettes of the Aeolian Islands.

The soft slopes of Sicily's largest park, the Parco dei Nebrodi, begin to rise near the coast and expand over a large woodsy landscape speckled with small villages rich in history and unique traditions.

The Saracen Coast is lined with several fascinating towns:

Capo d'Orlando

It's a lively seaside resort facing a long stretch of pebble beach. The town is characterized by a cliff which still contains the remnants of an antique castle. In the neraby village of San Gregorio, appealing to tourists who want a genuine sea experience, the local fishermen have turned to fishing-tourism. San Gregorio is also a pleasant place in which to enjoy an evening out. There are fish restaurants, pizza shops, a pub, and a night club.

Brolo and Piraino

maintain medieval sites like the Saracen Tower in Piraino, and the Borgo castle and medieval quarter which is surrounded by a fortified wall that defended its inhabitants from invasions led by the legendary pirate Barbarossa.

Patti

In the northern side of Nebrodi, a bishop's see, contains a medieval historic center with small lanes, steep steps and a dominating 18th century cathedral. It's interior houses the sarcophagus of Queen Adelaide, wife of Ruggero I, who died in 1118.

The archeological park of Tindari protects the city's roman and Greek origins, which date back to the 4th century BC. Which include the Greek theater, the thermal baths, the city walls and Roman houses, while from the Sanctuary one can delight in an amazing panoramic view of the Aeolian Islands and Cape Milazzo.

Gioiosa Marea

Gioiosa marea is a charming seaside village built in the 18th century after a terrifying earthquake demolished the original city located at a higher elevation. From a historic point of view, it's worth paying a visit to the striking ruins of the ancient city of Gioisosa Guardia.

Caronia

Caronia is nestled on top of two small hills that softly stretch in a green span towards the ocean. On the peak of the village stands the overpowering Castle which is one of the most interesting, and most intact, Norman architectural buildings in all of Sicily.