Acacia Marina

"The complex consists of two hotels sharing the same grounds: the Acacia Palace and the Acacia Marina. The facility itself is very beautiful and clean, and the staff are friendly and courteous. However, our room situation has completely ruined what should have been a lovely, relaxing vacation. We are staying in Room 408 at the Acacia Marina. Unfortunately, our room does not have a balcony, but rather a terrace that opens directly onto a courtyard—a courtyard that other guests use to access the pool, restaurant, reception, and exit. From the courtyard, one can look directly into our room and see everything going on inside. A curtain is supposed to provide a solution, but it also blocks out all the sunlight. Consequently, the room is completely dark. We are thus faced with a choice: privacy or light. The nightmare continued when we discovered that the air conditioning wasn't working either. It made some noise, but produced no cold air. So now, for six full days and nights, we are stuck in a dark, stuffy, hot room! As far as I'm concerned, the vacation is ruined. I would honestly prefer to just sleep on a sun lounger by the pool."

"We decided on a Fly and Flop holiday and this location hit the mark. About an hour and a half from Catania airport (private taxi included in holiday package) it was just right for us. We went for 10 days in mid-October so the hotel was not full (it closes end Oct) and there was plenty of room round the pools and loungers for everyone. The well kept gardens make this a peaceful and tranquil location 2 minutes walk from the long, sandy beach. All of the staff were most attentive to ensure we enjoyed our stay. The buffet breakfast catered for all tastes and the one evening meal we had there offered a varied selection. Otherwise, we ate out at the two restaurants within 5 minutes walk or the eateries in the town which is about 15 minutes walk. We took a couple of day excursions to Syracuse and Castella di Donnafugata (plus Montalbano's home) and enjoyed both. A car was hired to go to Agrigento, about 2.5 hours away. We found October to be a good time for a holiday in this lovely corner of Sicily, not too hot (about 23/24 degrees) and not crowded at all. It is a place we would return to."

"I am writing this review on behalf of my "octogenarian" Mother who recently stayed 10 nights at the hotel. The hotel provided fantastic booking confirmation and best price when we booked for my mother months in advance. The airport is a long distance away and the hotel organised the best and most efficient taxi quote directly for my mother. This service and the taxi driver was excellent. On the day of my mother leaving to Sicily, she unfortunately dropped her purse in the vehicle at Manchester Airport (purse was found and all fine) However whilst my mother had cash on her, she holds no other cards and is not reliant on her mobile phone. Whilst my mother was flying, I contacted the hotel and Gianmarco, and his team answered all the issues and assured us there would be no issues, They took the card details and ensured every day , my mother was asked is she okay for money, do they need to draw her any money from the card held against room etc, they made a very awkward and uncomfortable situation so much better in that my Mother loved the trip even more. My mother stayed half board, and commented that the food was amazing and plentiful. The quality and flavour of the food was spectacular in her own words. The staff could not be more obliging and helpful. My mother said the walking was tough as a few KM's from the local town, which she managed most days despite her age, but she loved visiting the historic sites and the hotel staff made a difference which means the world to us. We are grateful."