Hotel - Residence Al Belvedere Salina

The Hotel-Residence Al Belvedere Salina feels like a tiny Aeolian village, lined with stone pathways and beautifully tended gardens. The hotel is family-owned and run, and the owners' pride in their work shows in the property's charm and personal touches -- not to mention the rave reviews from past guests. The decor is rustic but not rough, with gentle Mediterranean colors and Italian pottery. Vegetables and herbs from the hotel's gardens can be found drying around the property, and the owner/chef prepares popular dinners using produce and fish from the surrounding area. 

Coffee and tea are always on offer in the lobby, and there are plenty of spots to relax in the sun or shade, on traditional brick benches with hand-painted mosaic tiles or comfy outdoor sofas and chairs. The happy hour on the terrace is a highlight, with pate, smoked fish, fresh cheeses, and wine on the menu. Although there is no spa, fitness center, or infinity pool on the property, the vacation vibe is strong, thanks to the exceptional service and idyllic location. Couples are the primary clientele, but the hotel also welcomes families with children and has larger rooms to accommodate them. 

The Hotel-Residence Al Belvedere Salina is located in the village of Leni on the southwest coast of the island of Salina, with gorgeous views of Mt. Etna and the coast of Sicily. The Belvedere is on the outskirts of Leni, a short walk from the town center -- with its narrow streets containing a handful of bars and supermarkets. The town has one taxicab, but there is a small scooter and car rental spot near the hotel. Additionally, there is a bus stop a few feet from the hotel entrance; the bus is an easy way to get around the island. Rinella harbor is a five-minute drive from the Belvedere; from there, visitors can catch a boat to the Italian mainland. Salina’s other harbor, Santa Marina, is 25 minutes' drive away. Among nearby attractions are Fossa della Felci Mountain, a five-minute drive away, and the Sanctuary of the Madonna of Terzito, a six-minute drive from the hotel. The hotel has free parking.

The eight guest rooms at the Hotel-Residence Al Belvedere Salina come in a variety of configurations, from one- and two-bedroom Studios to the deluxe three-bedroom Villa Limoni. Each room has a kitchen with a gas stovetop, sink, mini-fridge, dishes, and cutlery. Some also have full-size ovens. Rooms are large, clean, and air-conditioned with simple decor: tile floors, wooden furniture, and filmy curtains, plus pretty Italian pottery and hand-painted tiles that add charm. However, beds at the Belvedere are doubles, not king- or queen-size beds. Rooms have flat-screen TVs with digital channels, but they lack Wi-Fi. Bathrooms are clean but small, with showers, bidets, hairdryers, and organic toiletries. 

All rooms have private terraces that are furnished, with plenty of plants and flowers. The size of the patio increases with the room category, and many have traditional brick seating areas, while some have sea views. The two Villas come with added luxuries: Villa Eolo has a private garden and barbecue, and an outdoor shower; the largest villa, Limoni, has three bedrooms and two baths, a private garden with lemon trees, an outdoor shower, and a sun terrace. 

The Hotel-Residence Al Belvedere Salina features a free daily continental breakfast including several different varieties of homemade jam, made using locally sourced ingredients, and other fresh Italian delicacies. Dinner is also offered at the hotel, with a local, seasonal menu, all homemade by the owner. Reservations are suggested for the four-course dinner, as it's popular. In addition, the hotel's happy hour features a selection of pates, smoked fish, cheeses, and, of course, wine. There is a barbecue grill in the garden for guests to share. Other features include shared laundry facilities, wedding service, and free Wi-Fi in most public areas. The hotel will also shuttle guests to the ferry terminal or pick them up at the train station for a surcharge.