Villa Gialla

The welcome was incredibly warm, with a fantastic lunch and a bottle of limoncello. The host couldn't have been more attentive. We had a couple of small issues, but they were sorted quickly since the owner lives next door. There were eight of us, all pleased with the spacious, clean villa during our week at the end of May. Each couple had their own bedroom, and it had all the amenities we wanted. After long days of sightseeing, the pool was lovely, though don't use the diving board. The huge garden gave us loads of outdoor space and felt like a little paradise once we found the place. It can be hard to locate, so have satnav in the hire car or maps on your phone. The views aren't great. A well-stocked small supermarket is within walking distance, and it's easy to get to the motorway. If you're coming from Catania airport, the drive is around 30 minutes, and you should have 50 centimes handy.

The garden was ideal for keeping our preschoolers safe and entertained. We stayed in the downstairs apartment, with a bedroom opening directly onto the garden, a bathroom, and our own living room connected to the main living space by a long corridor. The villa is spacious and stylish, though it could use some renovation. Our bed was more comfortable than the ones in Hilton, and with the thick curtains we slept perfectly. Our friends had three bedrooms upstairs. Customer service was the real highlight, from booking to arrival. I booked through https://www.lowcostsicilia.it/it by email with Giovanni, who helped me choose the right house for our group of 12 and arrange a rental car. He organized a taxi from the airport and replied immediately to every request. Antonio, our host at villa Gialla, helped us with everything. I'd rate his work 6 out of 5. When no rental cars were available, he found one for us and lent us his own child seats. Best host I've ever had! The location was good, with a large grocery store just around the corner. Aci Saint'Antonio is worth a visit for a morning "cappucino e cornetto" and evening pizza, no earlier than 7:30 p.m. Sicilian restaurants and pizzerias tend to open around 8 p.m. Buses are possible, but uncomfortable because there are only a few each day. The stop with the schedule is in front of Gran Cafe Maugeri. A taxi to the train station in Acireale or a rental car is a better option.

We had a great time as a group of eight. The house is spacious, with clean linens and large towels in every room. The huge, deep pool was well maintained, and we loved spending time in the garden. The bathrooms have small showers, and there isn't a dishwasher. There also weren't enough sun loungers, and the highway runs right alongside the house. Still, I highly recommend it.

Alina was an exceptional host, always attentive to what guests needed. This large, comfortable villa has a beautifully kept garden and a pool that really adds to the property. Great for adults and children.