Sicilian Luxury: Belmond Grand Hotel Timeo Review
“You may have the universe if I may have Italy”
Have you been drawn to Sicily after watching White Lotus Season 2? You’re not alone. The show highlights Sicily's beauty, history, landscapes, and food, making it a popular destination for all travelers. So, if you want to experience this magical island for yourself (without the drama of course) - I can let you in on a little secret.
Even way before the show aired, Sicily has been a dreamy getaway for people worldwide. This Mediterranean hot spot has a rich history influenced by ancient civilizations such as the Greeks, Romans, and Arabs, creating a diverse cultural tapestry. Located along Sicily's eastern coast lies Taormina; perched atop rugged cliffs with panoramic views of the Ionian Sea and Mount Etna, the town has enchanted travelers with its charming streets, historic ruins, and vibrant atmosphere.
While the Four Seasons may have been the go-to choice for Tanya, Cameron, and all the other characters, the Belmond Grand Hotel Timeo offers a refined and elegant setting for your Sicilian adventure. Nestled in the heart of town, this luxurious property mixes refined hospitality, rich history, and breathtaking views of Mount Etna.
Curious to find out more? Let’s review Belmond Grand Hotel Timeo while we cover all aspects of the hotel, from the rooms to the location.
The Location
Grand Hotel Timeo is located right in the heart of Taormina, making it super easy to explore this charming town. Perched on a cliff, you'll get jaw-dropping views of the sea and Mount Etna. If you're flying in, it's just an hour's drive from Catania airport, and the hotel offers airport transfers, so there's no need to stress about getting here. Plus, you're in for a treat with the ancient Greek theater right next door!
But a little advice: driving around Taormina can be a bit of an adventure, especially with the narrow, winding streets. If you choose to drive, renting an automatic car is better since the roads to town are very steep. So, if you're not used to those conditions, save yourself the trouble and let the hotel take care of your ride—it'll make for a much smoother start to your Sicilian vacation.
The Rooms
At Grand Hotel Timeo, every room is a luxurious sanctuary, offering a perfect blend of comfort and elegance. Tucked away at the end of a quiet street, the hotel ensures a peaceful atmosphere without noise from the busy streets. Thanks to the hotel's expansive gardens, you can enjoy a sense of tranquility, feeling as if you're in a secluded area while still being in the heart of town.
Whether you opt for a cozy Classic Room or indulge in the opulence of a Suite, you're guaranteed a serene retreat with breathtaking views of either the sea, the hotel's lush gardens, or the charming streets of Taormina. Each room is tastefully decorated with traditional Sicilian furnishings and modern amenities, ensuring a comfortable stay. Sink into plush bedding after a day of exploration or unwind on your private terrace while soaking in the Mediterranean sun.
The Restaurant
If you’re looking to taste delicious Sicilian food while enjoying breathtaking views, look no further than the hotel’s restaurants. At Timeo, there are two great options to choose from. If you're lucky with the weather, eating on the terrace gives you amazing views, but it can get windy sometimes because of the hotel's cliffside location. Ristorante Timeo is more relaxed and serves delicious Sicilian dishes, while Otto Geleng is the hotel’s Michelin-star restaurant and, therefore, a more elegant option.
While I enjoyed my dining experience at both restaurants, I preferred Ristorante Timeo. Otto Geleng offers a fixed course menu, which I found to be quite generous for my appetite. By the time I reached the third course, I was already quite satisfied. Another aspect to consider is that both restaurants provide the same stunning view. If you prefer having the freedom to choose your dishes while enjoying the scenic backdrop, Ristorante Timeo would be an excellent choice for you.
Let's not forget to mention breakfast—the food was excellent, and there were many options to choose from. You could taste that everything was made fresh. When the weather is nice, breakfast is served on the terrace, so you can start your day with delicious coffee, Italian pastries, and fresh juice.
And here's a tip: even if you're not staying at the hotel, you can still enjoy the vibe and view by grabbing a drink at the terrace bar and trying their signature Timeo Spritz.
The Amenities
Grand Hotel Timeo offers an array of amenities to ensure a memorable and comfortable stay. Relax and rejuvenate with a dip in the hotel's refreshing swimming pool, surrounded by lush gardens and panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea. For those seeking ultimate relaxation, indulge in a luxurious spa treatment or unwind in the sauna and steam room. If you want, you can also stay active during your stay with access to the hotel's fitness center.
The Verdict
All in all, my stay at Grand Hotel Timeo was truly memorable. The hotel's location was incredibly convenient, allowing me to easily explore Taormina. The dining experience was exceptional, with delicious meals served at Timeo Restaurant and Otto Geleng. What I appreciated most was the hotel's relaxed yet luxurious atmosphere—it felt welcoming without being overly formal. A highlight was when, on my birthday, the waiter surprised me with a glass of champagne at breakfast and whispered, “Happy Birthday.” It might seem small, but those little details really made my day. It's clear that the staff know how to make you feel special without making a big fuss, which I truly appreciated.
It's clear that the staff go above and beyond to make guests feel special, without making a big fuss. Overall, my experience at Grand Hotel Timeo was nothing short of delightful, so if you’re looking for a homey, luxurious hotel for your Sicilian adventure, this is truly a great option.
I hope this was helpful. If you have any more questions, you can always reach out here or on Instagram, and I’m more than happy to answer them. Happy Travels!
