Hotel Villa Ducale

Hotel review

Here at Hotel Villa Ducale you'll find a home away from home in the the heart of Taormina. Surrounded by beauty and good food you'll enjoy panoramic views of Mount Etna and the coast from the dining terrace - the owner, Rosaria Quartucci's favourite spot. As if this charming hotel wasn't special enough already there's now a pool too, which is surrounded by climbing flowers and plants and which boasts spectacular views of the bay. It's difficult to tear yourself away, but you must head into Taormina and enjoy the 'passeggiata' (Italians strolling by to socialise) in the evening and try the traditional Sicilian granita with brioche. The 19 rooms and suites are decorated with warmth and exquisite Italian design. All are air-conditioned and have large en-suite bathrooms and every mod-con you can think of. We love the Superior Room with its large terrace overlooking the Bay of Giardini Naxos; but if you're travelling with a family then book the Design Suite which has a Double or Twin Room plus an additional room that can be used either as a sitting room or as a second bedroom with a comfortable sofa bed. Breakfast, which is renowned throughout Taormina as being one of the best in Sicily, is served on the terrace, where you can enjoy those stunning panoramic views. Tuck into a feast of fresh fruits, homemade cakes, pastries and Sicilian delicacies. Traditional Sicilian dishes are on the menu for lunch and dinner complemented by an extensive wine and cocktail list and if you have a sweet tooth you'll love the complimentary Afternoon Tea - traditional biscuits and cakes are served every day at 5pm on the terrace. The cooking course at sister hotel Hotel Villa Carlotta is a family affair and you may well find owner Andrea Quartucci helping out with the pizza dough! Sicily starts heating up from April and is scorching in July and August. During these warmer months head to the hotel’s exclusive beach club just 10 minutes away by complimentary shuttle or you could relax on one of the sun loungers on the sunny rooftop terrace.

Lulu Townsend Review published: 21/10/2024