Orlando was a charming host, he welcomed us with a bottle of local wine and some delicious fruit. He kept in touch to make sure we found the location OK. The accommodation was spacious, we only used one of the two double rooms, the outside space was particularly nice, a very secluded walled courtyard. Wifi and mobile reception was spot on.
It felt very secure and was only a 15 min walk to the village and the sea. Some excellent local restaurants, still open in November. Good base for trips to some wonderful places, Noto, Syracuse, Ragusa etc. Local nature reserve at Vendicari a real treat.
Our concerns about going so late in the season were unfounded, in fact I would recommend November as a time to visit, particularly if you are not too keen on very warm weather. It was like a good late English summer, no crowds and plenty of places still open.
Cottage Carmen is quirky and idiosyncratic in a very engaging way and excellent value for money. I wouldn't hesitate to recommend it, we may well use it again ourselves.