A rich history, lagoon beaches and excellent hiking available - The northeastern coast of Sicily is among one of the most beautiful regions of this island world, with the Nebrodi Nature Park, verdant mountains, sand beaches and varied topography. In addition to the excellent swimming in the sand bays and lagoon beaches, the northeast coast offers a rich variety of recreational opportunities with its picturesque mountain villages enthroned up to 600 m above sea level, perched amidst the green hills, cool lakes and hardwood forests. The hill towns of San Marco d'Alunzio and Santo Stefano di Camastra are especially memorable with their picturesque narrow winding streets, archaeological finds, and ceramic centers displaying traditional Sicilian ceramics and how they are crafted. One of the highlights when visiting these places is the panoramic view of the spectacular landscape descending to the sea with the Aeolian islands in the background. The Nebrodi Nature Park is a hiker's paradise; it is Sicily's largest natural park and one of the most extensive nature conservation areas in Europe. There is a smooth and harmonious braiding of the dry summer landscape with the cool running brooks, springs and lakes. Tindari welcomes with its crystal clear lagoons and ancient legends. This Black Madonna of Tindari is said to have originated in Byzantium, and legend tells that a group of fishermen found it after it fell off a ship bound from the Orient, and handed it over to the local monks. Once upon a time this Madonna saved a child from falling on the rocks by causing the sand to rise from the sea, catching the child unharmed. This also explains the unusual sand formation. The beaches of Capo d'Orlando and Oliveri are among the most unusual and most attractive of Sicily. There is the general crescent shape sand bank, which contains a shallow lagoon surrounded by lakes. A vacation paradise in San Marco d'Alunzio - Villa Paradiso is located 540 meters above sea level on the outskirts of the picturesque medieval town of San Marco d'Alunzio with its narrow winding alleys, and Sicilian hospitality. From these heights the villa enjoys a panoramic vantage point and offers guests breathtaking views of the Aeolian islands. The house is equipped for up to 8 people, it offers every comfort. The large garden with pool and barbecue house is a small paradise for young and old alike. The two story house was built using the highest quality materials. The surrounding area offers hiking trails where guests can see fruit and nut trees, and often sheep and goats wandering the same territory. It is equipped year round with air conditioning and central heating. - Ground floor: Fully equipped kitchen, a large hall, a living room with fireplace, a double sofa bed and satellite TV, laundry with washing machine, garage, 1 bathroom with shower. - Upper Floor: 2 bedrooms with double beds, 1 bedroom with bunk beds, 1 bathroom with shower, 2 balconies. Surrounded by a large private garden with roses, olive and palm trees, and a panoramic view of the sea and the Nebrodi Nature Park. Guests have the use of a barbecue in the garden, and bicycles. Beginning in August 2008 the house pool in the garden is available. Prices include electricity, gas, water, bed linens, towels and cleaning.