Our stay was incredible. Nino (the son of Carmela and Vito) is surely one of the best hosts in Sicily. From the moment we arrived, his care & warmth were exceptional.
Our apartment was one of three at Casa Messina - we loved our outdoor kitchen and the two garden areas - they are both large areas, one with seating & plants with our kitchen area in the corner, the other a lush & tranquil green spot. It was all so relaxing and impossible not to feel happy!
The property is also the home of the Messina family - very historic with collections of interesting & beautiful objects. Nino gave us a tour - including the family wine cellar and collection of cars.
The town of Acireale is a typical Sicilian town, well located for visiting other places of interest, such as Mt Etna, Taoromina & Catania. We however were happy to spend our time in the town, buying fabulous fish, meat, fresh vegetables & bread and cooking a la casa. The beach at Santa Maria la Scala is lovely - no sand, but there is a good area with loungers which can be hired for a reasonable rate, bar, toilet & shower and it was nice to spend time among the locals and take refreshing swims in the sea. The village is also very pretty, with its little harbour and restaurants.
Nothing was too much trouble for Nino. He became not only a colleague, but a 'brother' and friend. Carmela & Vito are dignified, cultured and warm. We couldn't have asked for kinder or more welcoming hosts.