East coast Sicily Day 1 Catania - Milazzo

Our destination is the north of Sicily. We have been to Sicily several times now but have never visited the north coast and are extremely curious about some places there. As usual the lure of the map is irresistible, looking at a place and thinking 'what's it like?'. So the plan is a return flight to Catania, a week in Milazzo to visit the north coast, a week in Pozzallo right down the south for a sandy beach and Modica, Scicli and Ragusa and the last week in Ortigia Siracusa for the city itself, some last sea and Noto. All by public transport.

We get off to an early start from Bergamo Orio al serio Airport and arrive in Catania on time. There's an hour or so wait for the direct bus to Milazzo but it means we are fairly near the front of the queue and can get a seat near the front of the coach. By the time we set off the coach is full. It's nearly a  two hour trip to Milazzo. https://giuntabus.com/milazzo-aeroporto-catania/ The coach makes an extra stop on the way for someone who has to go to the toilet. On the way we also remember something important we had forgotten to do before leaving home and I get an email with some work, ah well, never mind, we have got three weeks to relax.

It's easy to find our apartment which we booked directly with Stefano and is situated right in the centre of Milazzo over his father's fishmonger's shop. It's very smart and well-equipped indeed, and even has a little balcony with a glimpse of the sea between the trees in the square in front.

We quickly pop out for something for lunch at a small supermarket where the owner vastly overcharges us for some ricotta and whilst thinking that the total bill is unexpectedly high we don't think to check until we get home. It leaves a nasty taste but is one of the very few cases of 'scams' during our many travels.

After lunch and a rest to compensate the early start we set off along the sea front and to explore the town. The mid-September promenade is wide, quiet and peaceful with just a few people strolling and a few fishing. 

Down the far end there is an area with boats for local fishermen. We have a look around the small town centre and then head up to the castle in time for the beginning of the sunset. The view back across the promontory and out to sea towards the Eolian isles is well worth the uphill walk. 



The castle is already closed but there are a few people around waiting for the sunset like us. The temperature is warm and the first day of our holiday has been very nice indeed.