Villa Chiarenza Maison d'Hotes

The hotel is located outside the tourist area but access is difficult due to the confusion of taking a wrong turn and getting back into the tollway (not much around the neighborhood and not an easy walk to the closest beach – pretty dirty and rocky). The owners/host are very nice but do not speak English. The room we were assigned was plenty big, with a comfortable bed and a balcony with a view of Mt Etna. Communication was fine due to my “poor Italian” and their daughter answers the Whatsapp messages. The breakfast is plentiful but has unusual choices (this may be due to it being prepared fresh each morning and ready for each table). Examples of the breakfast items include: bruschetti with tomato, zucchini, and/or prosciutto, orange juice, fruit cocktail or fresh fruit, bread, and croissants, cookies, or cake. I did request and they made scramble eggs for me as I am not used to eating cold vegetables or fruit/croissants/cake in the morning. Parking is tight and difficult, as the gate is hard to open and close (not to mention outside traffic and people parking opposite to the gate!). Very nice hospitality in spite of location.