Sicily, East, Ragusa

Ragusa is part of the Val di Noto Unesco Heritage site and 18 of its buildings are protected by Unesco patronage. Largely devastated by an earthquake in 1693, the original town, now known as Ragusa Ibla was rebuilt on the original site whilst the wealthy developed a new, higher part of the town now known as Ragusa Superiore. The stacked views of the town make it attractive to explore and the Baroque architecture is outstanding.

A 20 minute drive will bring you to numerous golden sandy beaches set in their beautiful coves. Punta Secca is a long beach which has become famous in Italy thanks to the popular TV serial 'Commissario Moltalbano' (Chief Constable Montalbano). A few minutes away are the beaches of Marina di Ragusa, the best known beach resort of the area with a lively night life and Irmino Oasis amongst the many other sandy coves.