Zaira's apartment has an incredible view from its large balcony terrace - taking in the Sicily coast, Calabria in the distance, and a towering Etna. The three room apartment was comfortable - a double bedroom, small kitchenette with sofa bed, and a bathroom. Thanks to the air-con, it was also mercifully cool in August. Zaira was very welcoming and exceptionally responsive to our queries, getting back to us within just a few minutes.
With a car, it was possible to visit some major attractions on the eastern side of the island - Syracuse, Taormina and Etna itself - all do-able within less than two hours. But the immediate local area had a lot to offer too - a cafe and restaurants just 3 minutes drive down the road at the site of the oldest tree in Europe (a massive chestnut), a brilliant pizzeria on the road to Sant'Alfio (Al Pino) and then there is Milo for small shops, a great pasticceria and fine views.