Below the lava cliff on which Acireale sits, reached by a steep road or a series of steps, the tiny fishing hamlet of Santa Maria la Scala is one of the most picturesque spots on the Ionian coast. A small harbour with colourful fishing boats, black lava rock, crystal clear water, and a handful of seafood restaurants make it a completely different experience from the Baroque town above.
The descent is about two kilometres by road or more dramatically by the old staircase path carved into the cliff. The hamlet has a tiny church of Santa Maria (from which it takes its name) and a restaurant or two that serve freshly caught fish with no fuss. Come in the morning when the fishing boats return, or in the evening for dinner with views over the coast toward Catania and Etna.