Terrific Views, Reasonable Price, Short Trek to Town
My wife and I stayed at this unit in Sep 2019 and were very pleased. Would stay here again when we return. Here are our observations:
It is newly renovated and clean. Windows and entry door are great quality, secure, and unit is in a safe location. The bathroom, kitchen and washing machine were all in proper working order, and laundry detergent and basic kitchen supplies (e.g., olive oil) were provided. The shower is the typical small size found in Italy.
Our host, Francesco, did a great job, exceptionally responsive. Reservation/arrival confirmation and check in went smoothly. From the moment we arrived, every question or need, like taxi reservations, directions, restaurant recommendations, etc. were immediately provided, including a text msg I sent at 1:30 a.m. about our reservation.
Location is on a beautiful hillside overlooking the Ionian Sea. Vertical height wise, It is situated between two parallel roads, the higher one leading into city center, and the lower one along the shoreline. You would walk 200 stair steps up to the road to Toarmina and from there it is an easy 5-min stroll to city center. Or to go to the beach, you walk down a height of 300 stair steps to the shoreline road. Be advised, if walking uphill/stairs is difficult for you, this location would not be ideal.
The beach coves right there are very scenic and excellent for snorkling, with beach lounge chairs and umbrellas available. You can take a tram (aka, "cable car") from the beach level all the way back to the city center level for €3.
More about the beach: Spiagga Beach is an idyllic beach setting. Incredibly beautiful with dramatic cliffs surrounding it and resorts nestled in the cliffsides shrouded by trees, and the crystal clear, placid, emerald green / blue warm water. Literally 10 steps away are charming open air cafes with reasonable prices and plenty of available tables. And For whatever reason, the beach is uncrowded, with plenty of open lounge chairs and brilliant blue umbrellas available for rent, and no lines at the bathroom. This cove is a great snorkeling area with colorful tropical fish and plant life and terrific visibility.
The only downside was that the bed had an uncomfortable mattress. I let Francesco know about it when we checked out, and he has put a new mattress on order.
Will definitely return to Taormina and we would stay in this unit again.