Carnival capers in Sicily

If you've 'done' Venice and Rio and are looking for a new colourful Carnival experience, head for Acireale, a seaside town at the foot of Mount Etna on Sicily's east coast, renowned for its Baroque architecture.

The Carnival (7-24 February) is best known for its spectacular floral displays and floats portraying celebrities, politicians and fantasy creations. Dating back to the 16th century, the celebrations now include street parades and entertainers and the former egg and orange-throwing has been replaced by marching bands, dancers and masked performers.

When you need a break from the Carnival crowds, take a trip up Mount Etna, wander at leisure through the charming streets of Taormina and explore its Greek-Roman theatre, or head for the stunning Alcantara Gorges.

soloSicily offers a selection of accommodation in the area include The Queen's Jewels, a cluster of five independent cottages surrounded by lush gardens, olive groves and citrus orchards, on a vast countryside estate in the Taormina countryside.

A one week stay in February costs 350euros (sleeps 4) with solosicily.com.