This was the most perfect spot to enjoy a very hot and lazy week in late July. The beach really was a stone's throw from the apartment, as can be seen from the photographs. We became totally addicted to the sea which was probably the cleanest and most energising water we have ever swum in.

The apartment itself was brilliantly equipped; there was everything we could possibly need. And Maria was extremely generous, greeting us with a very appreciated food hamper when we arrived. The location was excellent, being very near to the supermarkets, bars and some great restaurants. One that was recommended by Maria was Sea Sound - and here we enjoyed some of the tastiest and freshest fish we have ever eaten.

We decided not to hire a car, and really there was no need. Just a five minute walk from the apartment was Giardini's bus station and an air conditioned bus connected us with Catania airport in just over an hour. It was also possible to take trips to Mount Etna and the lovely hilltop town of Taormina from here.

We stayed for a week, but would have loved to have stayed longer. We definitely envied the people who came after us.