Grotta Del Monaco

When my car broke down on the highway on the way there, the owners did everything they could to get me to safety and helped me sort out every detail of the trip without a car. They treated me like family, always ready to help, whether the need was big or small. Their warmth and professionalism are what make this place so special. At night, the reserve is quiet, with sounds from the nearby woods and the striking sight of eruptions in the distance. The place is immaculate, with air conditioning (though the climate is so pleasant it wasn't needed), an ensuite and a shared bathroom, LED Android TV, a small terrace and private parking. Breakfast is generous and very good. It's a peaceful spot just outside Pedara, in the Etna Villages Park, with good public transport nearby, at the foot of the Great Volcano, "a muntagna." I was there for work but felt as if I were on holiday. Now I know I can come back to this welcome whenever I need a break, for work or a vacation. I'm returning every week. Unparalleled.

Carmelo is very attentive and takes his role seriously. I was struck by how genuine everyone was. It's a lovely place with lovely people, and I'll definitely return. Thank you.

We lasted 15 minutes before leaving. The water and room were cold, and the bathroom heater couldn't warm the room. There was no hair dryer, apparently because nobody had asked for one before. Turning on the air conditioning and heater cut the power. We'd been sold the room as a suite, though luckily they've since changed the name. We asked for a refund, but the manager says we used the services because we used a bath towel. A terrible experience, practically a scam. I strongly advise against it.

The owner was very kind and helpful, and there was plenty of parking. I hadn't realized when booking that the apartment didn't have an ensuite bathroom. The bedrooms, bathrooms, and kitchens are shared.