La Bergerie

Barbara's warm welcome and genuine care made us feel at home as soon as we arrived. She paid attention to the little details, and our stay at La Bergerie Suite in Taormina was unforgettable. The charming suite was perfectly maintained and had everything we needed for a relaxing visit. The dreamlike view across Isola Bella was breathtaking. Highly recommended if you're after a special place to stay in Taormina.

Barbara was welcoming and hospitable, and helped connect us with taxis, directions, breakfast, and coffee. She's a wonderful person. From her place, we could get to the center and the beautiful beaches below, with a once-in-a-lifetime view. We enjoyed our stay very much.

Barbara, the owner, is an expert guide and Taormina's best-kept secret. This quiet, characterful casa sits far enough from the noise and bustle, while still being close to where you need to go. Getting around does mean walking and climbing stairs, so it's better for active people who like to explore at an easy pace and slow-travel holidaymakers in no rush.

We thought this short-term rental was overpriced for what it offered. The place was very rustic, with furniture and décor that felt like thrift shop finds. It came across like a dumpy college apartment. The booking site's advertised views were highly misleading. Our room, listed as the Deluxe Suite with Sea View, had no sea view from inside. There was a small balcony, but its high brick guard wall blocked the view from a chair. Breakfast was another letdown. The listing showed photos of a luxurious spread, but what we got was bread, whole fruit, and an egg, served on the owner's cluttered patio. Over our two weeks in Italy, this was by far the most expensive place we stayed and the least worthwhile. Its convenient location and free parking were the only positives. It didn't meet expectations, and the listing was egregiously deceitful.