Let's talk about the 1st thing that pops up: Escaping Taormina.

Taormina is a breathtaking destination filled with life! However, for those who need a break from the bustling crowds during peak seasons, I recommend a retreat to Castelmola. Nestled just above Taormina, this charming village is easily accessible by an 8-minute car ride or public bus (since parking can be tricky). If you're up for a rewarding challenge, you can also opt for a 45-minute uphill trek along the old donkey trail.

Castelmola is very quaint. There are cute bars, restaurants, and adorable boutiques showcasing locally crafted goods. The refreshing breeze and captivating vistas of the Ionian Sea, Taormina and Mt.Etna create the perfect combo for exploration too. Wandering through the ancient alleys is like stepping back in time, offering glimpses into a fascinating history. And we know, I love a good alley.

While spectacular views are clearly one of Castelmola's main selling points, this tranquil Sicilian town has more to offer. Exploring the remnants of the "castle" (Castel= castle) will transport you to the summit of Mount Tauro that overlooks the village. Although there is not much left of the structure, you can only imagine how incredible it must have been perched 2,000 feet above sea level on the pinnacle of Mount Tauro. Those 360-degree panorama views make the climb unquestionably worth it.

Back in the late 1800s, Castelmola and Taormina were one of the first destinations in the Mediterranean to open their arms to travelers from the LGBTQ+ community, establishing themselves as beacons of acceptance and hospitality. They were magnets for poets, artists, and writers, becoming places for those who embraced a more "bohemian lifestyle" and held progressive views on sexuality. Walking around town you will see some shops selling male nude portraits by Wilhelm von Gloeden, a 19th-century German photographer. He created a series of nude portraits that were influenced by the aesthetics of ancient Greek statues. He captured several photographs featuring local males as subjects for his work.

Interestingly, I was told by some locals that some people in this area don't actively emphasize the area's history as a gay-friendly retreat, even though it remains an integral part of its past. This historical backdrop provides the foundation for the quirky penis-themed bar in town, a playful addition that works seamlessly with this legacy of openness and acceptance.

Let's pause for one second before you try to find any of this offensive: The phalluses featured in the bar's decor weren't intended to be crude or vulgar. Once you grasp (enter Weiner jokes because I am incredibly immature sometimes) their perspective, you'll truly understand the reasoning behind their placement. Read on.

The present theme of Bar Turrisi finds its origins in the vision of Salvatore Turrisi, a man with a deep passion for two facets of life: women and the history of Ancient Greece. Drawing inspiration from the iconography of the Priapus cult, dedicated to the Greek deity of fertility, he began decorating the restaurant with phallic symbols. It's worth noting that throughout history, the Greeks and other societies perceived this symbol not just as a crude representation, but as an emblem of power, fortitude, and even as a means of protection against malevolent forces. Men make me giggle.

Over time, Salvatores collection grew and grew (oh boy), fueled by numerous additions from friends. Can you imagine what his name day or birthday looked like? haha.

It's a very kitchy and fun spot to stop for a drink or a bite to eat on your way. I highly recommend trying the local almond wine, a beverage that also draws inspiration from Greek history. And, of course, it's served in a glass with a playful phallic shape, adding a touch of whimsy to the experience.