Hotel Alberi del Paradiso

The staff were the heart of our six-night stay at Hotel Alberi del Paradiso. Valentina and a wonderfully warm housekeeper made my mother-in-law feel so cared for, right down to a heartfelt hug. Everyone seemed to anticipate what we needed, always available without hovering, and their professional, nothing-is-too-much-trouble approach made everything easy. From the moment we arrived, they took our bags and settled us on the terrace with fresh orange juice. Our rooms were directly opposite each other, and I especially appreciated the thoughtful layout of my mother-in-law's room: a roomy bathroom with discreet handrails and a built-in shower seat that didn't spoil the look. Ortigia toiletries were a lovely Sicilian touch. The hotel itself is beautifully kept, impeccably clean, and combines 1930s grandeur with modern comforts. The only small issue was the timing of our visit, just out of season: the private beach wasn't open and the shuttle wasn't running. The hillside setting means negotiating 124 steps and several steep paths. My remarkably fit 84-year-old relative managed, but it could be hard for many guests in the hotel's main 60s to 80s age range. I suggested she ride pillion on a Vespa with me up the hill, but she wisely declined! Even so, the experience was wonderful. My mother-in-law and I recommend Hotel Alberi del Paradiso without reservation to anyone looking for comfort and first-class service in Sicily.

The staff were lovely, and the hotel has a nice outlook. Breakfast buffet was great, and the pool was the best part. But the “executive suite” felt dated and not very premium for $630 a night, and its supposed “sea view” looked out over a high school car park. We were there in May, before the private beach opens in June, so there was no complimentary shuttle to the beach.

Alberi is a great base for exploring Cefalu, though after dinner you might want to take a cab back because the walk uphill from town is a bit of a trek. The pool among tropical gardens and beautiful pine trees is lovely, and the pictures don't do this hidden gem justice. Breakfast was really good, with made-to-order omelettes and outdoor seating. The service was the icing on the cake. Rosanna, Irene, and Matteo, among others, looked after me so well that it felt more like a 5 star hotel than a 4. Great place. I'll be back...

The location worked well, not far from town but not too close either, and the staff were great and helpful. I stayed 3 nights in the Mulino room. The size was adequate, but apart from being separate from the main hotel, there wasn't anything special about it. A few more power outlets would be useful.