One of the best stays on the island of Stromboli. La Balordina is in a great location, right in front of a wonderful tiny intimate beach (Scalo dei Balordi). You can reach the center (Bar Ingrid) in 10-15 minute walk and L'Osservatorio in 35-40 mins (there are two other beautiful beaches along the way leading to the exit from the village). There is also a very laid back bar/terrace very close to La Balordina called La Libreria - I recommend you visit. Grace is an excellent host, very accommodating, great communication and a wonderful human being. I enjoyed our talks immensely. She also had some great local recommendations. Inside, La Balordina has everything you might need. The bed is very comfortable (Grace was also very gracious to provide additional covers as night temperatures were quite low for October when I visited), bathroom has all necessities, the kitchen is well equipped and the entire space is beautifully decorated. There is a lot of attention to detail and the place is very clean. Also, this is not my first time visiting Stromboli and I want to say that if you have any safety concerns regarding the island (aside from potential natural threats), you might as well leave them in the port when you arrive. At night, if you leave a window open, you can hear the waves smashing against the volcanic rocks and, every now and then, the distant rumbling of Iddu. I felt very good there. The garden is amazing, you can sit in the sun, have a coffee/wine/lunch while watching the volcano in silence, surrounded by a fantastic and peaceful scenery. I can't recommend La Balordina and Grace enough. Hope to visit again soon. Grazie, Grace, per tutto!