This 1920s hotel 10 km (6 mi) northeast of Catania was a haunt for artists before General Rommel took over during World War II. When the tide turned in the war, it became a military hospital. Today, after a painstaking renovation, Paradiso dell'Etna resembles an elegant private villa housing mementos of a memorable past. The hotel has four exceptional suites and 30 sumptuous rooms, each filled with tasteful 19th-century Sicilian antiques and all the modern accessories befitting a four-star hotel—the pool is even heated. Pros: Beautiful furnishings, delightful gardens, excellent food. Cons: Difficult to find, not much to do in the area.
Visit the Travel Talk forums for help on planning your trip