It was great meeting Giuseppe, a very friendly host, and stay for a night in his little castle. The location on the hillside is great and Giuseppe has transformed a ruined old castello into a beautiful and well presented B&B with sun terrace and very inviting swimming pool. Wifi internet access was reliable and there was a mini (pay when you leave) bar with a good selection of soft drinks, beers and wines. Bean-to-cup coffee and litle cakes in the shared lounge/dining room were free, there's also a kitchen which we didn't use on this occasion.

Giuseppe joined us for breakfast and we had a good natter about Sicily and the world. His English was as "good" as our Italian, but we used new techology (Google translate) and old (hands and feet) which worked very well. :-)

It's a short drive or half an hour's walk to the little town of Valguarnere Caropepe, which even in off season felt lively with locals. Make sure you don't miss the sunset in the park, followed by the best pizza in the Pizzeria Dei Portali (try the "Bronte" and the "Noci" for a regional treat).

Il Castello is a perfect base to explore the often neglected interior of the island, including the Villa Romana Del Casale, Piazza Armerina and the much advertised Sicily Outlet Village.

We had a good stay and would gladly stay again with Giuseppe.