We spent 16 nights at La Chiana and had a thoroughly enjoyable experience.
You have to understand that it's quite secluded and a little hard to reach, but that's exactly what we wanted.
At the same time, it's no great investment of time to reach several excellent beaches, or Cefalu for a boat tour out to the Aeolian islands, or Tindari for the church and ruins, or the mountain town of Gangi, or the beautiful coastal town of Santa Stefano di Camastra which has several outstanding restaurants and unique ceramics.
When you simply want to stay at home and vegetate, the house is cool and serene, the extensive grounds are full of fruit trees and a notable ancient olive tree, the bells of the neighbouring farmer's goats are quite hypnotic, and the view from the front terrace, over the surrounding valleys and towns and down to the sea, is endlessly fascinating.
Salvatore and his father were, from the moment we arrived in Pettineo and stupidly wedged ourselves in a too-narrow street, incredibly friendly, helpful and generous. They supplied us with excellent local produce and lots of local tips. They did far more to help us and make our stay enjoyable than any hosts in our previous experience. We really felt like guests rather than clients.
Overall, one of our very best Airbnb experiences.