Gianfranco, our host, having previously explained to us how to reach the property, met us there on our arrival, showed us around and gave us some useful tips and recommendations for restaurants, bars etc. Sole Lava e Sale comprises the entire ground floor of a 3 storey villa. The property with its pretty garden, is situated on a hillside overlooking Taormina and has the most stunning views of Mount Etna.
The town centre can be reached either by taxi (10€ each way) or by walking down 300 steps (and up again). Despite our ages of 67 and 70, the thought of both saving money and losing weight was incentive enough and we managed the steps fairly well each day (7 days in all). The weight loss, however, failed to materialise due to the uncustomary volume of ice creams, cakes and pasta we consumed!
The property itself was both cozy and comfortable and had everything we needed and more. Particularly welcome was the water in the fridge and the bottle of Sicilian wine! Security at the property was also very good and we had our own parking area behind an electronic gate. The patio, under a beautiful bougainvillea-covered pergola, provided shade most of the day and a welcome break from the scorching July sun. Garden furniture, ie table, chairs and sun loungers with mattresses were all provided.
Our host, our accommodation and the town of Taormina were all amazing and we would highly recommend all 3. We certainly plan to return.