An absolutely wonderful place with numerous opportunities to explore and engage in active pursuits!
The apartment is fully air-conditioned and impeccably equipped. Within minutes, you can feel as if you are residing in your own home! There is literally everything you could possibly need – from kitchen equipment to beach towels – and even water shoes. The apartment is meticulously clean. What was truly wonderful was our reception by a fantastic host family on-site, who addressed all our inquiries right from the start. We usually have many questions at the outset, as we always strive to be considerate of the place where we will be living and its immediate neighbors.
Riposto is charming. It's not the typical tourist town where you're packed onto the beach, but rather a place where you can observe local life and people chatting on chairs along the streets. This enables you to truly grasp the essence of authentic Sicily :) The nearest beach is actually right next to the house – complete with an accessible platform and showers. Beaches with small pebbles are within a 20-minute walk from the apartment. Utilizing a mask and snorkel (which you'll also find in the apartment), you can dive in and witness the marvelous array of fish that swim up to your fingertips :)
Well-equipped shops are located near the apartment, and every vendor will happily assist you with a smile in selecting the finest items :) There's an absolutely fantastic bakery across the street offering fresh bread, pizza, arancini, and more, throughout the day.
We made the decision to explore eastern Sicily without relying on a car... We exclusively utilized public transportation – buses and trains – and believe us, it's entirely feasible and a delightful experience. This approach allows you to become acquainted with the locals and their customs – and even if the driver doesn't speak a word of English – you'll manage just fine. After all, it's Sicily! :) Admittedly, it was a bit of a challenge, but with the tremendous assistance of Rosario, everything fell into place :) We visited Syracuse, Giarre, Giardini Naxos, Catania, Taormina, Randazzo, and we can unequivocally affirm one thing: Sicily is exquisite, and you'll easily fall in love with it!!! Towards the end of our stay, we shared a laugh with Rosario and Giuseppe about possibly co-authoring a guide on exploring eastern Sicily without a car :) Rosario facilitated our booking of a dolphin-watching boat. Although we didn't encounter any dolphins, the onboard gathering party – just off Isola Bella – was truly splendid, featuring delectable snacks, prosecco, and new friends from another boat :)
Lastly, we would like to reiterate our appreciation for Rosario, who is genuinely wonderful, sincere, brimming with humor and optimism, and incredibly, phenomenally helpful. You could always rely on him. He ensured we were never bored, suggesting various activities that could be accessed by bus or train, every single day :) We also extend warm greetings to his wife Rosario and son Giuseppe, who welcomed us with open arms!
Sicily is indeed stunning. Venture here, and you will undoubtedly adore this place and its inhabitants, who radiate smiles and sincerity. We are thankful to fate for this vacation and for the opportunity to meet our exceptional hosts :) Thank you!