Hotel Villa Sant’Andrea
S. Italy: Sicily: Taormina
Built in 1830 by an English aristocrat as a private residence, Hotel Villa Sant'Andrea was converted to a very exclusive hotel in the 1950's. Situated on a private beach, five minutes from the village by car or funicular, the villa has undergone extensive refurbishment in recent years.

One arrives via a long drive bordered on either side by gardens. It is a quiet location. Facilities include, in addition to the beach, two restaurants, two bars (one indoors and one outdoors), beach service, water sports, motorboat, scooter hire and a shuttle service.

While there are four different dining options on the property, the hotel's Oliviero Restaurant has the reputation of being one of the finest in Sicily. In season, lunch and drinks are served on a very attractive terrace overlooking the beach, and there is a piano bar every night (again, in season). Fresh flowers abound.

Each room is individually furnished, comfortably but not lavishly. Among the accommodations, there are connecting rooms for families in addition to three suites, one of which can connect to an adjoining room to make a two bedroom suite. Antique furnishings and paintings are used throughout the public areas. The staff here is especially helpful and accommodating.