September in Sicily is the "perfect time for a late-summer beach fix", says The Guardian, with still-warm seas, fewer crowds and weather that's "pleasant enough to potter around gorgeous, sandy-coloured medieval towns without working up too much of a sweat". We reckon spring offers the same mix -- and this beach week comes with a choice of dates in both spring and autumn for £299 per person.

The package is half the usual price and includes:

• Return flights
• Seven nights at the 4-star Sikania Resort & Spa
• Light all-inclusive board, with all meals, soft drinks and snacks, plus unlimited beer and wine at mealtimes
• Typical Sicilian 4-course dinner each on one evening with a folk dancing show

Citrus Holidays has also reduced the single suplement to £45 per person.

The Sikania Resort & Spa is on Sicily's southwest coast, close to the historic town of Butera. Set right on a sandy beach, the hotel is surrounded by pine and eucalyptus trees and is a 90-minute drive from Catania Airport. The medieval city of Agrigento -- best during spring or autumn when the fields are still green and filled with wildflowers -- is an hour away, and the town of Sciacca, with its charming harbour and thermal spas, is a little further along the coast.

As well as a restaurant with outdoor terraces, the resort has a wellness centre, two swimming pools and two bars. All rooms have plasma TVs, mini bars and air conditioning, as well as a veranda or balcony.

The Sicilian dinner starts with a selection of starters such as arancini and fried aubergines, followed by a pasta course, then roast pork, lamb and grilled calamari, and finally cannoli, a crisp pastry filled with creamy ricotta.

Depart from London Gatwick on 23, 30 April; 7, 14, 21 May; 17, 24 September.

It's an extra £35 per person to depart from London Heathrow from 23 April-21 May; 15-30 September. Pay an additional £140 per person to depart on 4, 11, 18 June.

Update (3:55pm, 14 March): Due to popular demand, 14 May and 24 September dates have increased by £35 per person; 21 May has increased by £40 per person and 17 September has increased by £60 per person.

Checked luggage is included with Heathrow flights and is an extra £35 for departures from London Gatwick. Return transfers are not included and are an extra £49 per person.

This package costs £199 for the first child travelling with two adults.