After reading so many glowing reviews of Mario's apartment we were confident this would be a good base for our stay in Siracusa. We were right! We had an exceptionally comfortable week in Mario's spacious and well-appointed apartment. He was a really caring and generous host for whom nothing - even standing in the rain for 10 minutes to 'bag' us a parking spot - was too much trouble. We appreciated the introduction to Il Caseificio Borderi and would recommend everyone to go and see Mario and his friends working there in the area's (and possibly the world's - why not!) most amazing emporium of artisan-produced food.
We were so comfortable and happy in the apartment that it seems invidious to mention two little blips, but it may help others to know about them. Parking isn't always easy. You sometimes have to be prepared to drive around the one-way system once or twice, jostle for space and even double-park if necessary. The other thing is the stairs up to the apartment: there are 54, which was not a problem but could be daunting for some and so this is by way of a gentle warning. Worth it when you get to the top, mind you.
Mario supplied us with everything we could possibly need - milk, Prosecco (such a treat!), bottled water, coffee, all sorts of breakfast food, spare bedding, coat-hangers, bathroom stuff - so it felt like a real home from home.
The location of the apartment is perfect: just on the Siracusa side of the Umbertino bridge to Ortigia. We could not have chosen a better place to stay and would love to return, one day.