We spent the last 2 nights of our 3 week holiday at Giuseppe's and they proved to be the most interesting and authentic of our time in Sicily. We had rented villas the rest of the time but nothing beats the experience of staying in someone's home. Giuseppe emailed us the coordinates for our satnav and we arrived in front of his gates without any problem. A very warm welcome awaited us as he and Elvira insisted on carrying our bags to our spacious room, which had a separate dressing area with lots of storage, a TV, fridge, tea and coffee making facilities, masses of books and an adjoining bathroom. Big windows opened on to views of the extensive grounds with Etna and the coast beyond. An excellent start which got better..... We were shown round Giuseppe's and Elvira's beautiful, historic family home filled with interesting artefacts collected over many years, and admired the gardens, orchard, rose alley and swimming pool. We'd planned a trip on the Circumetnea railway and Giuseppe immediately produced the coordinates to get us there. That evening we felt like guests of honour at the sumptuous dinner cooked by Elvira and served in the formal dining room. First came aperitifs of prosecco and exquisite canapés, then gnocchi, an amazingly tender rolled meat course with individual vegetable "mountains" and an incredibly light lemon gelée topped with tiny, flavoursome fraises des bois. Wine was of the best quality and we were offered a choice of digestifs to finish. After this experience we naturally opted for breakfast the next morning and were not disappointed.....apart from the fact that we were full before we could try everything on offer from the extensive range provided, including one of the best omelettes ever and the lightest of pastries served warm from the oven. Instructions for the best parking in Taormina were produced as we got up from the table.
Giuseppe and Elvira are lovely, welcoming and helpful hosts who do their utmost to make your stay memorable in every way. We will certainly never forget it.