We decided to return to the Villa Ducale as part of a two week holiday in Sicily. We had previously stayed at the Villa Ducale in 2008 and while the hotel had a rustic feel about it then, there has been extensive modernisation of the rooms since our original visit. What has not changed is the level of service and the friendliness and professionalism of the staff. As the hotel is high above Taormina, the hotel still runs a complementary bus into the town. Alternatively, you can walk down the nearby steps and, if you are brave enough, walk back up. The views of Etna from the hotel are stunning. Hopefully it will not be another 8 years until we return.

It's difficult to add anything to what other reviewers have said. This is a wonderful hotel where the staff can't do enough for you. Other hotels could learn so much from them. The location above the main centre of Taormina not just affords stunning views of Etna and the sea but allows easy access to Castelmola which is a short bus ride or a steep walk up the hill. We moved on to a spa hotel on Salina after our stay and found it difficult to adjust after Villa Ducale's level of service. Would return in a heartbeat.

Perfect get away when you want to stay a few days in Taormina. Small hotel that offers a really personal service and gives you the feeling of being a guest. Staff is extremely friendly, nice rooms and offer a service to the beach.