Weekend in Avola

Small, single-nave Baroque church with a fine stuccoed interior and a striking 18th-century wooden crucifix. The facade has a volcanic-stone portal.

Tip: If the door is locked, ask at the sacristy next door — the custodian often opens it on request during weekday afternoons.

Long, sandy beach with shallow, clear water. The main stretch has free public access areas alongside lidos. Sheltered by the Capo Negro headland, it's often calm.

Tip: Head to the free section near the Lido Solemare entrance if you want less crowded sand — bring your own umbrella as shade is minimal.

Wander the grid-like streets rebuilt after the 1693 earthquake. See Baroque palazzi, the Chiesa Madre with its striking facade, and the elegant Piazza Umberto I with its bronze fountain.

Tip: Go on a weekday morning to catch the lively market stalls set up along Corso Vittorio Emanuele.

Coastal nature reserve with pink flamingo lagoons, wild beaches and ancient tuna-fishing structures. Well-marked trails lead to watchtowers and the Greek ruins of Eloro.

Tip: Enter via the Cittadella dei Maccari gate to reach the quieter northern beach and the Eloro archaeological zone — it costs nothing and sees fewer visitors than the main entrance.

Spectacular canyon with a series of natural swimming pools carved into limestone, about 20 minutes' drive inland. Steep stone staircase down into the gorge.

Tip: Start early — by 10am the car park fills up and the trail gets hot. Pack sturdy shoes and plenty of water. No facilities below.