Villa Galati Resort

Alba at reception welcomed us warmly. Our double room was spacious for two, very clean, and had its own air conditioning system, which was great. The pool, tucked like a little paradise between the two buildings, was so calming, and we were usually the only ones there. You'll need a rental car. There isn't much to do outside the property, and Fondachello di Mascali isn't especially inviting. We did enjoy several local food spots: Mare del’ Etna and Spinas had fresh, amazing meals, while Iceberg, a bakery, trattoria and ice cream place, was worth visiting every day for its tasty treats, good coffee and friendly people. The area mostly draws Sicilians and Italians on holiday, which may be why the food is so good. For us, this was an ideal base between crowded Catania and very touristy Taormina. I'd definitely book here again.

Our room was spacious, with a large terrace and a clear view of Etna, and we could park the car easily near the apartment. The beds weren't very comfortable. We arrived late and Emilio greeted us warmly, though he was a little grumpy about the delay and charged us 30 euros in cash. At the start we had drinking water and toilet paper, but little else. Coffee was made either with hot water or a perculator. The beach and Cafe Iceberg are within walking distance, and the cafe stays open even outside the tourist season. The minimarket was shut when we visited in mid-April. There are supermarkets nearby, but you need a car to reach them and to get anywhere else. Taormina, Giardini Naxos and Etna are close, and the location worked very well for getting to the main sights. We really enjoyed the stay.

There are good restaurants and places for ice cream just a two-minute walk away, and the other guests were quiet and nice. Both rooms have AC if it gets too hot. The resort is clean, spacious and well cared for, with lots of thoughtful touches that make it feel like home. You barely need to bring anything: there’s a baby bathtub, sun umbrellas, irons, percolators, a safe and fully equipped laundry facilities. The owner and staff were flexible about arrival and departure times, and let us keep enjoying the pool, beach and showers right up to the last minute.

A relaxing break was just what we wanted. The rooms and pool were clean, there are restaurants nearby, and parking is secure. The panoramic view of Etna was a lovely extra.