The Daily Mail recommends the carnival at Acireale

Tempted by the idea of a change of scene this half-term? Skiing is the most popular option but a skiing holiday can be fairly full-on. Sometimes just grabbing a few days in a different setting, with new sights and experiences, can be just as invigorating but infinitely more relaxing.

Obviously, you won’t get wall-to-wall summer sunshine in Sicily in February but if you pick the right location, you certainly won’t be short of things to do. As recommended by the Daily Mail at the weekend, the Acireale carnival (12 February to 1 March) is a major highlight of Sicily’s calendar and one that will give you a fantastic insight into what makes the island tick. With concerts, parades and processions of allegorical and floral floats through the town’s baroque historic centre, it remains one of Sicily’s most colourful and impressive carnivals. And the fun doesn’t stop at the end of the day – join in the evening entertainment when the piazzas become the stage for concerts and exhibitions.

If you’re not sure about staying in the heart of the action, head away from the crowds to the tiny fishing port at Pozzillo where 2-bedroom Terrazza sul Mare has a wonderful covered terrace with views out to see and over the port below. The apartment’s a comfortable 45-minute drive from Catania Airport and conveniently placed for trips to Taormina, Catania and Mount Etna.