Despite challenging communication conditions (like making calls from an American cell phone on a tiny Italian island!), Giovanna met us promptly when we arrived, and told us pretty much everything we needed to know on the short walk from the center of town to the house. She was also easily available (a benefit of being in such a small place!) whenever we had a question.

The house was beautiful, the patio exactly as it looks in the picture. It's where we spent most of our time, even on the hottest days of our visit. The house consists of two bedrooms, a patio, a bathroom, and a kitchen on the ground floor level. We figured out which doors and windows to open and close when to keep the building cool.

I would point out to future guests that being in a place as out of the way as Stromboli does feel more like glamping than staying at a hotel—which was fine with us, and we'd stay here again. If you're willing to "rough it" a bit (e.g., walk everywhere, drink only bottled water) you'll be rewarded with intensely gorgeous views, deeply friendly people, and a memorable stay in a place that feels very unlike a tourist trap.