Cefalù

The twelfth-century Norman cathedral, a UNESCO-listed masterpiece whose Byzantine mosaics are crowned by a Christ Pantocrator. Dogs are not allowed inside, but the broad Piazza del Duomo in front of it is easily enjoyed on leash, in the shade of its palms.

The rocky headland above the town, climbed by a steep path to the megalithic Temple of Diana and the castle ruins. Leashed dogs are allowed, but the route is steep and shadeless, so carry water and start early.

The old medieval washhouse, where water from the Cefalino river runs down a flight of black stone steps into vaulted basins below street level. The visit is brief, open-air and done on leash, a welcome cool stop on scorching days.

The main street of the old town, running through the medieval maze from the old harbour to the cathedral. Lined with shops and terraces, it is easy to walk on leash, best early in the morning or in the evening once the stone has cooled.

The old fishing harbour, with its small pebble beach and painted boats hauled up onto the sand at the foot of the medieval houses. The walk is done on leash and offers the finest view of the Rocca, especially in the evening light.

A small rocky cove east of the old harbour, away from the long town beach. Unlike the supervised Lungomare, these quiet coves often tolerate leashed dogs out of season, a useful alternative when the main beach is closed to them in summer.