Etna Hotel - Giarre, Italy 

I stayed at the Hotel Etna in April 2008. The room I was given was very poor compared to the photos available , in fact i would call it pokey. The only available natural light or ventilation was by having the door to the room open , and as this was between reception and the main courtyard it didn't give much privacy. The area the hotel is in is very run down , with nothing within walking distance. All in all it was a pleasure to check out of the hotel.

We have just returned from a 4 night break at the Etna Hotel and found it particularly clean, comfortable and well located. It is easily found from Catania airport (about three quarters of an hour and very clearly signposted). I think each room in this modernised historic property was different, but we were allocated a lovely one close to the well-kept gardens and pool and with a large covered patio furnished with comfortable sofa and table. Within minutes of our arrival we were surprised with a welcome glass of wine as the management had noticed from my passport that it was my birthday! This was much appreciated and typical of the service we received during our stay. Breakfast was a typical Italian continental one, but included excellent coffee, freshly squeezed orange juice and fresh fruit. Situated near Giarre and on the SS114 road and close to the A18 autostrade this was a convenient base for visiting Mount Etna, the historic sites at Taormina and Syracuse, the cities of Messina and Catonia as well as the interesting rural and coastal villages between. It will be even better when the hotel restaurant opens next month!