There is no doubt that the island's modern appearance is largely attributed to the diverse historical and environmental influences that have continued to dominate it through the ages. The ancient civilisations left their marks in many forms, and the heritage today is reflective in part of every period of its turbulent history.

There is much more to the island than archaeology, however, and if you are looking for a true Sicilian experience, choose to stay in a small town from where you can pick and choose exactly what you would like to do. San Vito Lo Capo is a quaint local town in the northwest part of the island and is situated in a valley between some beautiful mountains. The main attraction here is the lovely beach, where you can swim in warm, crystal clear waters until November. In typical Sicilian style the main industries are agriculture and, in particular, the production of olive oil - so there are plenty of opportunities to embrace the local cuisine and get a taste for the Sicilian specialities.

The ideal location of San Vito del Capo makes day trips to some of the island??s best attractions an easy option. Visit the Zingaro Nature Reserve, the first to be established in Sicily in 1981. From the Gulf cheap iphone 5 of Castellammare it stretches seven kilometres along the most beautiful unspoilt coastline. Famous for the abundance of rare and endemic plants, the reserve is also the nesting place of almost 40 species of birds, including the Peregrine Falcon and the Common Kestrel.

Scopello is a small town close to San Vito and is a simply lovely place to explore. With some beautiful shops and delicious Sicilian bakeries, make sure you take your time to enjoy a cappuccino, indulge in some people watching and soak up the vibrant atmosphere that is so typically Italian. Close by is Tonnara, and old tuna fishing bay, which, today, is open for public swimming.

For longer day trips, visit the capital Palermo, with its wonderful golden mosaics of Monreale and incredible Teatro Massimo, famous for featuring in one of the scenes in the Godfather. Then perhaps head west to Marsala and see the huge saltpans, before relaxing with an afternoon of wine tasting. Erice and Enna are easily reached too, and are definitely worth a morning visit, both offering a unique insight into more of the island's fascinating past.

By choosing to stay in one of the many fabulous villas in Sicily, you have the freedom to apple laptop explore at your own pace; it's an ideal option for the more discerning and independent traveller. This small island has always been one of intrigue and, once visited, you will be captivated by its charm and be filled with the desire to return.