Avola, on the south eastern tip of Sicily in the Syracuse province, remains largely undiscovered by mass tourism and retains a distinctly Sicilian air.

Most of the population of the surrounding area still work on the land, and the profusion of almond and citrus trees make their presence felt in many local dishes. There are several wide, sandy beaches nearby, and visitors will be well served by bars, cafes and restaurants surrounding the numerous piazzas dotted through the town, which are also meeting places where locals sit and watch the world go by over a cappuccino or a glass of the local wine.

The town is perhaps best known as the birthplace of the Nero d'Avola wine, a hefty full bodied red which is recognised internationally, and this can be sampled along with cheeses, oils and many other local delicacies at the winery shop in the centre of town.

For a trip out of the city, nearby Noto is renowned for its well preserved Baroque architecture and has been awarded World Heritage Site status. Also nearby is the Cava Grande del Cassibile, or the Grand Canyon of Sicily. Trekkers can make their way to the bottom of a 250m deep gorge, surrounded by beautiful forest and wildlife, and enjoy a refreshing swim in the crystal clear pools and natural basins found there.