Hotel Bel Soggiorno

Founded in 1908, this family-run place is packed with history and old-fashioned charm. It's housed in a white stone Moorish-style building, and lush plants and flowers line the walkway to the entrance. Inside, the huge lobby is grand, with rich rugs atop tiled floors, antique furniture and art, and wrought-iron chandeliers hanging from the high ceiling. Bookcases are crammed with books, and there's Sicilian art all around. Outside, the terraces are beautiful places to pause and take in the views of the sea and surrounding hillsides. The grounds are full of citrus and olive trees, cacti, and flowering bougainvillea, and while it's mostly calm, tour groups do pass through and can be a little boisterous. Additionally, some parts of the hotel are looking a little run down. It's most popular with couples, but families and the aforementioned groups also make their way here.

This hotel is situated on a hillside overlooking the sea, about a 15-minute walk or five-minute drive outside Taormina. It is an uphill walk, however, so some guests may prefer not to walk. Several restaurants are found along the way and in town. The hotel's hillside location provides spectacular views of the sea and Mount Etna from rooms and public areas. Guests also can walk downhill to the beaches, or take the cable car or bus. Catania Fontanarossa Airport is about an hour away by car. 

Rooms are rather plain, but spacious, with high ceilings, tile floors, soft color schemes, and antique furniture including wrought-iron headboards and nightstands. The white walls and drapery help amplify the sense of space, though things are looking rather tired. Bedspreads come in colors like beige, blue, green, or pink, and small pieces of traditional art hang on the walls. Amenities include flat-screen TVs, air-conditioning, free Wi-Fi, and safes, but there are no mini-fridges or electric kettles. Tiled bathrooms feature hairdryers, bidets, showers or shower/tub combos, and toiletries. Hot water can sometimes be an issue. Bi-level quadruple rooms have sofa beds upstairs for additional sleeping space, as well as a second TV. Most rooms have balconies with beautiful views of the sea and hillside. Some guests have reported noise carrying from other guests, particularly when tour groups pass through.

This small hotel doesn't have much in the way of features -- and the lack of a pool is a bummer -- but its solarium breakfast room is quaint and lovely. Breakfast is included in rates, and features a decent selection of continental items, including local specialties. Guests also can dine on the veranda in nice weather, with stunning views of the sea from both inside and out. Room service also is available. The hotel hosts a gala night once per week, with dinner and live entertainment. There's also a bar. A desk in the lobby is set up with two computers for guests to use. Free parking is available on the access road to the hotel, but spaces are limited and tight. Wi-Fi is free throughout the property.