Built on the site of an original 15th century Dominican monastery, and transformed into a hotel in 1896 by descendants of the monastery's founder, this is probably the most famous monastery-hotel in the world and is also a member of The Leading Hotels of the World. In its peaceful corridors you can almost hear the soft steps and psalms of the friars that echoed through here for centuries. In the guest rooms and suites Renaissance architecture and 19th century antiques belie the hotel's modern comforts. Add to this the superb hilltop location above Taormina with views across the spectacular terraces and gardens, the Ionian Sea, Mount Etna and ancient ruins, and it's little wonder this unique hideaway attracts the world's serenity-seekers.