Hotel Villa Ducale = Sicilian Paradise

Villa Ducale has been our favorite small hotel in the world for several years. We were smitten from Trip One, for so many reasons… the hotel itself (a restored aristocratic villa); the location (a perfectly gorgeous situation, perched on a cliff high above the Med, offering stunning views of the sea and Mt. Etna, yet a mere 15 minute walk down into Taormina); the accommodations (which exude Sicilian charm in spades – terra cotta floors, wrought iron details, handsome antique furnishings, hand-painted ceramics and fresh flowers – as well as every modern creature comfort and boutique amenities); charming common areas (a lovely lobby which leads to a flowered terrace overlooking the splendid aforementioned view); a sumptuous daily breakfast feast; and a peerless staff (wonderful people who offer the perfect misto of warmth, hospitality and professionalism) … How could it get any better? Well, we just returned from our fourth visit to Villa Ducale, and this time, we stayed in one of the newly opened “La Duchessina” suites, which are splendid! The suites are situated in a beautifully renovated house (just steps from the original hotel) which is nestled amongst lemon trees and overlooks the Straits of Messina (all suites have private balconies from which to enjoy the splendid view). The suites are spacious and the décor is fabulous, with gorgeous ceramic tile floors, frescoed walls, wonderfully appointed bedrooms and (Jacuzzi) bathrooms, and lovely furnishings throughout. Just outside the suites, a large Jacuzzi sits nestled amidst the lemon trees; sipping a beverage while relaxing in the hot tub in the late afternoon in such a setting defines heaven! The price is right, too. Villa Ducale has always been a terrific value, and remains so – the new suites are extremely well priced. Now more than ever, I can’t recommend Villa Ducale highly enough! See for yourself: www.villaducale.com