Late in the 19th century, Sig. Schuler’s great-grandfather travelled by coach from Germany and built his house high above the Ionian Sea. He built on a grand scale and he chose the site well: the views of the Bay of Naxos and Mount Etna are gorgeous. When he died in 1905, Great Grandmama decided to let out some rooms and the villa has been a hotel ever since. Though restored and brought up to date, it still has an old, elegant charm and a relaxed, peaceful atmosphere. Lavish organic breakfasts are served in the chandelier’d breakfast room or out on the terrace. Bedrooms vary; some have beautifully tiled floors, antique furniture and stone balconies; the more modern top-floor suites sport beamed ceilings and large terraces. All come with organic bed linen, jacuzzi showers heated by solar panels – it’s all super-eco – and views to gardens or sea. Hidden away behind a stone arch, in subtropical gardens scented with jasmine, is a delightful, very private little apartment; a path from here leads all the way to the town’s pedestrianised Corso Umberto.
Our third visit to this very special hotel. The views, the gardens the breakfast on the terrace looking out towards the sea and Etna - unforgetable! A warm welcome from the staff who all help to make your stay. The perfect, peaceful location to enjoy Taormina and explore - no need for a car as the local connections are excellent. History, culture and great food all just a short walk away. Longer hikes for the energetic too. Idyllic.