Via Luigi Pirandello 81, Taormina, Italy
Many outdoor areas that offer views of the Mediterranean Sea and the hotel's lush gardens
Outdoor pool with gorgeous views and a sophisticated pool deck
Elegant rooms with contemporary furniture and bathtubs -- some have tiny, step-out balconies
On-site restaurant emphasizes Sicilian cooking and organic ingredients
Free expansive breakfast served until 11:00 a.m.
Various lounges and a poolside bar
Access to a nearby health club
Free area shuttle
Free Wi-Fi throughout
Glamorous and eclectic decor with attention to stylish details
Fee for parking
Some bathrooms are a bit small
Pool is too shallow for a proper swim
No on-site fitness center
This hip, yet elegant four-pearl boutique hotel provides gorgeous views of the vibrant Mediterranean Sea from the many outdoor spaces, which are surrounded by beautiful lush gardens. Located on a slope off a windy mountain road, the Villa Carlotta is within a five-to fifteen-minute walk of many of the popular attractions within Taormina and the nearby area. 23 accommodations including guest rooms, suites, and villas are comfortable and nicely furnished, with large windows and pretty views. Luxe features include a shallow outdoor pool, access to a nearby health club, and an on-site restaurant serving organic Italian cuisine. Still, expect to pay for parking on top of already high rates.
Scene
A bold, funky lobby and lush gardens surrounding the beautiful stone building.
This mountainside boutique hotel is in a beautiful old stone building that overlooks the sea, but the slope setting does mean outdoor steps to climb. The grounds are filled with palm trees, lush greenery, potted plants, and beautiful flowers.The reception area is both chic and boho -- bold orange-and-white-stripped walls, purple leather chairs, a giant silver Buddha head statue, and a chandelier with thin metal chains make for a fun yet sophisticated first impression. The Medieval Tower Lounge is just as stylish, but more subdued with mostly neutral furniture and Moroccan-inspired vases and lamps. Displayed tea sets and tchotchkes add interest to window sills and tables. Three walls of windows show off more views of the historic and picturesque town, plus the sea below. The majority of guests here are older international couples on a romantic holiday.
Location
On a winding mountain road, within walking distance of many attractions
This romantic hotel sits on a winding mountain road, overlooking the Ionian Sea and Mount Etna. It is within walking distance of many of Taormina's sights.
Rooms
Romantic rooms with gorgeous views
There are 23 rooms, apartments, villas, and suites at the hotel and each is elegant and comfortable. Beautifully detailed furniture, huge windows, and mostly white decor provide both a luxurious and relaxing setting. Some rooms are accented with purple drapes and plush lavender headboards. Each room comes with a flat-screen TV, coffeemaker, safe, and air-conditioning. Bathrooms can be on the small side but do have large tubs with glass doors and rainfall showerheads. Vintage-inspired pedestal sinks, bidets, and luxury toiletries are standard. Some rooms include charming (but tiny) balconies overlooking the Mediterranean Sea in the distance and garden grounds below.
Features
Outdoor pool, lounges, and indoor and outdoor dining
In addition to the staffed outdoor pool area with loungers and umbrellas, there are several other areas where guests can relax. The Medieval Tower lounge, filled with comfortable chairs and couches, offers a panoramic view of the water and surrounding area. The more sophisticated Byzantine Lounge has old stone walls, Romanesque busts, and a fireplace. The Solarium, on a small grassy area below the hotel, provides lounge chairs where guests can sit among flowering trees. Nearby, the Pool Bar serves coffee and cocktails. The hotel's restaurant, with a focus on Sicilian cooking, is charming -- all-white decor, framed pictures of fruit on the walls, and lemon centerpieces give the space a country kitchen vibe. It also has a covered outdoor balcony with tables and couches where guests can take in the fantastic views. Breakfast gets high marks, past guests have compared it to brunch. Wi-Fi is free throughout the hotel. There's a charge for parking. While there isn't an on-site fitness center, the hotel works around it by providing free passes to a nearby health club.