Olivandro

This was the one bad stay of our trip around Sicily. Getting there was a problem from the start: there’s no proper road, and even though I’m used to country roads, we ended up with a flat tire and got no refund. The place itself could be beautiful, but our room had no windows and was clearly dirty. Outside, the little garden was overgrown, with an abandoned lawnmower sitting in the middle. Breakfast was in a windowless shed that was being renovated. There were plenty of other things that felt below standard too. And the owners aren’t Sicilian, by the way.

Mrs. Lorenza made us feel welcome from the moment we arrived. She’s kind and hospitable, and breakfast was excellent, with that homemade feel. The property is away from the town center, so it’s peaceful and a lovely place to recharge. We enjoyed a swim and some sun by the pool, and there are beautiful seaside spots a short distance away. I’d definitely come back.

We never made it to the property, so there’s not much I can say about staying there. The one-kilometer country track was impossible for us: we got stuck around 200 meters in and couldn’t move either forward or backward. We’d looked at the Booking.com photos and spoken with Mrs. Lorenza by phone, so we didn’t expect trouble. She came out after we called and saw us stranded. We asked for our €300 deposit back, or even to pay only half, but that went nowhere. We couldn’t stay there, yet were charged for accommodation we couldn’t access. Looking at the other reviews, it makes sense. Think carefully before booking Olivandro, and don’t pay in advance.

A peaceful place to get away from the crowds, and just a five-minute drive from the Vendicari nature reserve. Our room was large, tastefully furnished, and had everything we needed. We loved the pool setting and the incredible view, and breakfast came with plenty of choice, including homemade desserts. The owners were very kind and professional, and the atmosphere was quiet and respectful. We felt thoroughly looked after. I hope we can return someday. Well done, well done, well done!