An Island within an island. The Tyrrhenian coast runs almost the entire length of Sicily's northern shore and is an uninterrupted line of resorts, beaches and little towns. Cefalu is the major attraction along the coast, with a pretty town and beach set below a rocky outcrop. After Taormina, it's the busiest of Sicily's coastal resorts. The Parco Madonie rises behind Cefalu and is popular with skiers in winter and hikers during the summer months. East of Cefalu is a great stretch of coast towards Milazzo, with a pretty series of lakes at Oliveri. The Tyrrhenian coast is also dotted with archaeological sites, including Himera, Tyndaris, San Marco d'Alunzio and San Biagio. Behind Sant Stefano di Camastra and bordered by Mistretta, Cesaro and Randazzo, the Parco dei Nebrodi is a good spot for nature lovers. A great new resource. --Travel + Leisure. "The perfect companion for planning." --Rutgers Magazine.  "These useful travel guides are highly recommended." --Library Journal. There aren't many places in the world you can ski and then hit the beach afterwards for a refreshing dip; see Greek, Roman, Etruscan, medieval and Arabic architecture all in the same town; and meet some of the friendliest people in the world. The richness in culture is demonstrated in the theater, cinema and art found everywhere. The coastal towns, the Mafia, the wines and foods, the astonishing history - all are explored in this guidebook. Full color throughout. This is excerpted from our full guide to Sicily as a whole.