By Emily Saladino
The Grand Hotel Timeo, an Orient-Express landmark in Taormina, turns 140 this year.
Located on the eastern coast of Sicily, above the Strait of Messina, the Grand Hotel Timeo first opened in 1873. It has since hosted such bold-faced names as William II Kaiser, Oscar Wilde, Guy de Maupassant, Catherine Deneuve and Elizabeth Taylor.
The hotel is celebrating its anniversary with a special cocktail, the aptly named 140, at the bar of its signature restaurant. Made with Campari and garnished with a local orange peel, the aperitif is a take on the classic Dubonnet cocktail.
Chef Roberto Toro has also prepared a special selection of dishes inspired by the historic, turn-of-the-century menu. Sample items include veau braise, or braised beef, and lemon ice cream made with Sicilian citrus.
Rates at the Grand Hotel Timeo start at €520 per night.