We LOVED our 10 days at Gianni's EtnaLodge! My wife and I experienced two of the four units here, Gelso vista mare (2 bedrooms, plus kitchen/sitting room; sleeps 6) and Cantina (1 large space with bedroom, sitting area with queen size pullout and kitchen; sleeps 4) because we moved near the end of our stay to make room for a family with young children. The beds were comfortable and firm, the way we like. The views of Mt. Etna and Taormina are magnificent. The pool is perfectly maintained and large, especially because it is shared by only 4 families at most (there was never more than one other family when we used the pool). The property was originally a winery, and the Cantina room was once the wine cellar - so it was naturally cool, though we used the air conditioning because we like it cold to sleep. We liked Cantina better, because it had a little more character, but the larger room was excellent too.

The kitchens were both well equipped, with two burners and enough pots and pans to cook whatever we wished. We made breakfast each day, with excellent espresso from a Gaggia machine. We BBQ'd several nights and enjoyed restaurants in nearby Taormina, Piedimonte Etneo, and Fiumefreddo. We visited Siracusa, Gole Alacantara, and Reggio Calabria, about which Gianni had many good recommendations. Gianni recommended the museum in Reggio, which turned out to be a highlight of our trip. We went to Gambino winery - the tasting there is not to be missed. There is a good discount market a couple of kilometers away (MD) and a much bigger one in Fiumefreddo (Lidl). Prices are good - lower than Long Island, where we live.

Gianni came every day to maintain the pool and grounds. He was always available by text, phone or email, and was responsive to our requests.

Here are things that Americans might worry about. EtnaLodge is on the mountainside, and you may not be used to driving in the narrow, twisting streets. But if you come to Sicily you cannot avoid the roads! There is a steep driveway from the road onto the property; no problem it just looks scary. The BBQ is homebuilt and works great with carbone (charcoal) from the market but don't forget to buy "fire starters." Water at the kitchen and bathroom basins did not get hot, but the shower did and that was most important. Good WiFi in the backyard and in the first room we had; we watched Netflix there. But it doesn't reach the other rooms. You have to go in the yard to FaceTime with folks back home.

This is not a hotel, it's like staying at a friend's well-maintained mountain home. I felt it was a great value. I will definitely stay here again the next time I come to Sicily ... And we had such a good time, I hope that the next time will be soon.