There’s a tranquil vibe at this owner-run seafront hotel. Inside this traditional Sicilian building -- which remarkably was once a tuna factory -- it’s lighter and airier than travelers might expect upon first glance. White-washed walls, distressed wood, traditional stone arches, and ceilings with exposed floor joists dominate the design, with beach-inspired artwork adorning the walls and shelves. The lobby is like an elegant living room, with upholstered sofas in William Morris-esque prints, distressed wood photo frames, and bookshelves of ocean artifacts. Outside, a seafront dining terrace is shaded under large white parasols, while a little farther along, a canopied sun terrace fronts the beach. Most of the guests here are couples seeking a balance of buzzing city sightseeing and a relaxed beach retreat.

The Musciara Siracusa Resort fronts an unassuming street of weathered baroque buildings at one end of a small private sandy beach in the UNESCO World Heritage-designated city of Syracuse. The hotel faces the ancient island of Ortigia and it’s a short boat ride (on one of the boats moored along the quay) or a 10-minute walk from the hotel to the bridge that links the island to the mainland. The immediate area around the hotel is a little run-down and the route to Ortigia isn’t the most scenic. Once on Ortigia, travelers will find winding alleyways, beautiful baroque buildings, and great choice of bars, cafes, and restaurants. Tourist attractions include the Duomo di Siracusa and Fonte Aretusa (both around a 20-minute walk or 10-minute drive from the hotel). Back on the mainland, it’s an eight-minute drive (or a 25-minute walk for those who prefer a stroll) from the hotel to the Archaeological Park Neapolis. This is Syracuse’s greatest concentration of ruins, and is home to the Greek theater, Roman amphitheater, and vast manmade chamber known as Dionysius' Ear. Siracusa train station is a 15-minute walk away, and travelers should budget around an hour’s drive to reach the airport in Catania. 

White-washed rooms are simple, light, and clean-lined, with oak floors and exposed-beam ceilings that add plenty of cozy charm. Beds feature wrought iron headboards or Moorish flourishes, and other accents include large white wardrobes and ornate lamps. All rooms have glorious sea views over to the ancient island of Ortigia. In-room amenities include air-conditioning, white-framed flat-screen TVs, free Wi-Fi, safes, and minibars. There are no kettles or coffeemakers. Traditional stone bathrooms have stall showers with rainfall showerheads, and wall-mounted hairdryers and toiletries are provided. The main difference between the rooms is the space they offer. Entry-level Small Classic Rooms live up to their name. Superior Rooms have a seating area with comfy armchairs and a tiny step-out balcony. On the top floor, a single Suite has a bathroom with whirlpool tub and two large blue-tiled terraces -- one overlooking the rooftops; the other facing the sea. The hotel also owns three self-catering apartments with their own entrance, housed in a separate building that's a one-minute walk away. Children under 14 aren’t permitted in the main house, but are welcome in the apartments. 

The small private stretch of man-made beach is a rare feature in Syracuse. Here, guests have free use of a beachfront terrace, which has comfy loungers, ornate love seats, and large white parasols. There’s also beach service and both canoes and bicycles are free to use. Travelers should note that day guests can use the beach at a fee and the beach is only open eight months a year. Unfortunately, there is no pool. Inside the main house, a cool and light restaurant with a separate bar sprawls out onto the seafront terrace. Buffet breakfasts are included in the rates for those staying in the main house. The restaurant also offers lunch and dinner and previous guests praise the seafood options, although many reviews also highlight better value options nearby. Wi-Fi is free throughout the hotel. There’s free public parking nearby and airport transfers can be arranged for a fee.