62 steps to a spacious terrace and a spectacular view of majestic Mt. Etna and the coast. We enjoyed a month over the Christmas holidays in this sunny, apartment with great wi-fi. Located opposite the tennis courts and English gardens, a short uphill stroll to Via Del Corso, shops and restaurants. Mr. Valente picked us up at the bus in town even though we were 5 hours late! We were greeted with a welcome gift of wine, fruit and panettone. The Valente's were kind and thoughtful, even putting up a Christmas tree and decorations. We attended Christmas concerts at the local churches, a band procession down the main street, nativity scenes, Babbo Natale and La Bafana dancing in the piazza, fantastic Christmas Eve bonfires at Piazza Duomo and Piazza S. Caterina. New Year's Eve in Piazza Aprile with a live concert and fireworks going off from rooftops was thrilling and amazing. Truly a magical experience we will remember always.

Suggestions: The climb up to the apartment was made easier with frequent rests along the way. The mattress, pillows and couch are very firm and uncomfortable. No side tables or table lamps in the living area, so we brought in the kitchen chairs. The glass coffee table(which we walked into more than once) could be replaced with a couple of comfortable upholstered chairs. Even though I was assured from the rental agent there was a stove/oven there was not. There was a 3 burner cook-top and a microwave with a browning feature. The browning pan was missing and there were no instructions. We had a take-out Christmas dinner. Removing the doors on the kitchen china cabinet would make it easier to use as they bump into the table. Somewhat limited on kitchen equipment; a ladle, small soup bowls, storage containers and sharp knife would be useful. We figured out the lack of hot water in the shower by running the water in the sink at the same time. Even with the windows closed there is quite a bit of noise at night from the coffee bar at street level. There is also a dog in the building directly across from the bedroom that likes to bark occasionally during the night.

None of these issues should prevent a stay at Casa Lionessa, the hosts, the terrace, view and location are wonderful.