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Just around the corner from the church is drinking water, a modest souvenir stand and the start of the final but brief leg to the castle. At the commanding height of 398m on the very top of Monte Tauro, the 12th-century Castello Saraceno (1hr 15min) occupies the site of the acropolis built in classical times. Several extant lengths of defensive walling, a tower and remains of a cistern can be seen, but the best thing is the panorama: the solemn spread of Monte Etna lays southwest, while the bird’s-eye views over the coast, Taormina and environs are breathtaking. If the castle is closed, enquire at the souvenir stand, as the custodian may be on hand to let you in. Tourist Office Taormina Tel 0942-23243

Return the same way to Taormina’s centre and the Corso to join the locals on their traditional evening promenade, and from there continue to the railway station (grand total 2hr). Accommodation Affittacamere Il Leone Tel 0942-23878 Casa Grazia Tel 0942-24776

WALK 2

Castelmola

Start/Finish Porta Messina Distance 4.15km/2.6 miles Ascent/Descent 300m/300m Grade 1 Time 2hr Map Taormina map from tourist office. For sketch map of route please see Walk 1. Access To reach Taormina see Walk 1. The occasional Interbus run climbs to Castelmola itself.