Taormina is a town built into a hillside, in case you have not done the research :-D Haha! SO yes, there's some ascending and descending to be had, as other reviewers point out, but that pretty much goes for your entire experience all over Taormina. With that said...BOOK THIS PLACE! Between the spacious home itself, the pool, and the amazing view, the home is situated within short walking distance to the center of town, gorgeous public gardens, and a walk down hill (some paved, some gravel, but well worth the adventure) to the beach only takes about 7-10minutes (another 5 minutes from that point and you are at the train station, though you do not want travel this path with luggage it's more of a light weight hike/back pack for day trip). There's a small beach club at the bottom of the hill, that offers great options for renting umbrella seats, drink and snacks service, and canoe/paddle boat rental. The water is amazing!
Anyway, Barbara's husband Salvatore, was ready as soon as I arrived in my car to guide me down the hill to their place. He gave me ease and confidence navigating unfamiliar territory in my rental : ) Salvatore and Barbara were easy and prompt with communications, even wishing me a happy birthday when the day rolled around!
Beautiful town, made all the more spectacular by this experience. Grazie mille!!!