UNAHOTELS Naxos Beach Sicilia

Let's start with first impressions here: The grounds at this hotel are quite stunning. They include lots of mature trees, shrubs, and flowers, while walkways wind through the gardens and to the many villa-style buildings. However, that relaxing setting -- which includes a lovely beach -- doesn't translate to peace and quiet. Instead, this is a lively resort that is constantly busy with activities and entertainment during high season (keep in mind that it's not open during the winter). Otherwise, it looks very much like the budget and mid-range resorts that seemingly ring almost the entire Mediterranean. Interiors are well-kept, but dated, with lots of old-school decor including trompe l'oeil paintings, checkerboard tiling, and lots of beige and peach hues. It's also worth noting that this is a large property, and it can be quite a distance from some of the outer buildings to the main hub of activity. This can be challenging for less-mobile guests, who should request a room in the main building. Expect to see active families and couples here, though tour groups and business parties often pass through as well. 

The hotel is situated along Giardini Naxos Beach, about a 20-minute drive from the center of Taormina. It overlooks the sea and Mount Etna and is surrounded by a large grounds with flowering trees and olive groves. Many other hotels and eateries are in the area. The location is convenient for enjoying the sea and as a starting point for exploring this part of Sicily. However, you'll likely want a car to navigate the area. The hotel provides free shuttle service to Mazzaro-Taormina, and there's a bus stop nearby. Catania Fontanarossa Airport is about 45 minutes away by car. 

The hotel's 642 rooms are split between the five-story main building, which offers front and side sea views, and several villa-style buildings spread throughout the property. Decor varies, but most rooms and suites are brightly colored with blue or green furniture, patterned carpeting or tile floors, and old-style bedspreads. The look is anything but modern, though everything is, at least, well kept and clean. Amenities include air-conditioning, TVs (both tube and flat-screen units), mini-fridges, and safes. Bathrooms are tiled and come with bidets, shower/tub combos or showers only, magnifying mirrors, hairdryers, and toiletries. Free Wi-Fi is available in all rooms in the main building. For the villas, access is available in common area hotspots, which are outside of the rooms. Rooms in the main building have furnished balconies or terraces, some with spectacular views of the sea or Mount Etna. Others look out on the gardens. Keep in mind that the grounds are quite large, and some rooms are a bit far from the main hub of activity.

Given the Atahotel's size, it's perhaps no surprise that it's packed with features that keep everyone busy, fed, and otherwise occupied. Of course, Sicily's sunny reputation mean that much of that is focused on the outdoors. Four pools include one for kids and one that's Olympic-sized. They're all surrounded by lounge chairs and umbrellas, as well as mature trees and fragrant flowers. One is marked for swimming laps. The hotel's private beach area is beautiful and wide, with plenty of lounge chairs and umbrellas for relaxing on the white sand and pebbles. A variety of water sports are available here and in the pools. Keep in mind that there are fees for beach chairs for those not staying on all-inclusive plans.

Five buffet restaurants include one dedicated to children up to age 4, as well as one on the beach, Stella di Mare, which serves seafood. Oasys, in the main building, is open and bright, with lovely murals on the walls and lots of windows for natural light. It also has a terrace for alfresco dining. Casa del Massaro is the place for Sicilian fare by candlelight, or out on a beautiful terrace. The Olympus Cafe by the lobby is a cozy space with a piano for live entertainment. Additional bars are found in the square, by the beach, and by the pool. Limited room service is available in the main building. All-inclusive rates are available, but there are some limitations to what's included and drinks aren't necessarily available 24 hours a day.

The spacious fitness center is surrounded by windows and has cardio and weight-training equipment, as well as free weights. Personal trainers are available. Massage and beauty treatments can be arranged. Land sports include tennis, basketball, volleyball, table tennis, and yoga. For the little ones, there's an outdoor playground with swings, slides, and climbing equipment. Inside, there are games, toys, and crafts, as well as cribs and little beds for when it's time to rest. Activities are also available for older kids and teens. 

The hotel has an amphitheater where shows are held in the evenings, and the staff organizes daily activities and events. Boutiques sell a variety of goods such as clothing, jewelry, and souvenirs. With 15 rooms, the events spaces at the hotel can accommodate business and social gatherings of various sizes, with one room able to hold 780 people. Business and catering services are offered, and planners assist with details. Wi-Fi is free in public areas and some rooms, but not property-wide.