Palazzo Previtera Museum - Rooms and Cottages

27.01.2025

Ho soggiornato recentemente a Palazzo Previtera attratta dalla bellezza del palazzo, che si è rivelato davvero interessante. L’edificio è ricco di fascino, con dettagli architettonici che meritano di essere scoperti. Purtroppo, però, il mio entusiasmo si è spento una volta entrata nella stanza che avevo prenotato: il “Cottage Glicine”. Fin dal primo momento, l’ambiente è apparso trascurato: un odore sgradevole permeava gli spazi; prodotti per la pulizia lasciati a vista e pezzi di carta igienica dimenticati in giro contribuivano ad accrescere la percezione di noncuranza. Inoltre, il condizionatore era rumoroso e non riscaldava adeguatamente il piano terra, rendendo la permanenza in bagno piuttosto sfidante: condizione inaccettabile nei mesi freddi. ll punto più critico è stato tuttavia il letto: materasso estremamente duro- al limite dell’inutilizzabile- e cuscini di qualità dozzinale. Dopo una notte così, ci si sveglia più stanchi di quando si è andati a dormire. L’ impressione generale è stata di pressappochismo, sia nei dettagli materiali che nel calore dell’ospitalità. L’accoglienza è un aspetto fondamentale quando valuto in particolare una struttura a conduzione familiare e, per me, qui è mancato quel senso di premura e di genuino interesse per il benessere dell’ospite.

13.11.2024

We had the most marvelous stay at Palazzo Previtera in October 2024. It's a most interesting building with a gorgeous large garden, an art galley in a space that incorporates the original stone walls, amazing rooms and delicious breakfast! The most memorable part was the tour that Alfio gave us of the private quarters (the Museum) of the family dating back centuries with the highlight for me was the chapel in which one of his ancestors celebrated the Mass!

09.10.2024

I booked this property following a careful review of the various press articles and private reviews. My partner and I were excited to spend five days at the property. We called to discuss the various room types and selected Il Glicine Cottage following a discussion with Alfio on the telephone. The discussion did NOT cover in detail the standard of the accommodation but rather the location and level of privacy. Upon arrival we were shocked and disappointed to discover that the “cottage” was located down an unlit alleyway some way from the main entrance. To reach the main house from the “cottage” was possible but the pathway was unlit as Alfie’s guided tour with his iPhone torch demonstrated. The standard of the cottage is woeful and not at all consistent with a more than 300 euro per night room rate in a remote Sicilian village in October. We expressed our disappointment that the cottage did not meet expectations nor live up to the website photographs and suggested changing rooms. We were told this was impossible as the property was sold out and there was a waiting list for rooms. We then suggested that we would be prepared to leave the property and would like to suggest a refund or part or all of our stay. We were told this was impossible as the rate was non-refundable. We spent one night in the property as we had arrived late at night. The following morning we were sent a breakfast at the cottage which was dismal comprising black coffee with no milk and a couple of stale pastries with a miserable bowl of yoghurt. There was no cutlery or napkins. I emailed the reception to suggest a further discussion to compromise on an early departure and a partial refund. I received no reply so went to discuss again at the reception. Alfio was again present but in full defensive mode insisting that there was nothing that could be done, and referencing complicated systems. I explained that there was no necessity to fall out about the matter but a friendly compromise should be possible. Alfio told me that he was not the person to complain to nor the correct person to discuss a potential compromise with. I asked who was and was told that there was no one else to speak to. Upon insisting that I wanted to discuss the situation with whomever was in charge, Alfio explained that an older gentlemen standing behind him was the correct person and that i could raise my concerns and suggestions with him, but that “you will need to speak Italian”. When i explained that I did not speak Italian and perhaps Alfio would translate, he told me that he would not do that. At this point I attempted to suggest a compromise with the older gentlemen who became quite agitated and told me that “ you can leave” and “you will get nothing” All in all this was a terrible experience. Sometimes a hotel is not what is expected and you put it down to experience, and move on. In this case the approach and manner of the staff and the owner at this property tells me that they know that they are selling a product that simply doesn’t match what they promote and actively want to exploit customers. A simple agreement to refund part of the cost of the stay in return for our early departure would have been reasonable here. I would have understood keeping part of the payment but certainly not all of it. I strongly recommend you avoid this place.

04.10.2024

I am extremely shocked by this place; I don't think I've ever stayed in such a poor room and environment. When I asked Alfio (the person that did the check in) about the possibility of moving to another room he told me that was impossible, when suggested a refund due to the room's condition, he refused, stating it was my problem. The photos of the rooms are completely misleading compared to the actual state. His response suggested that this isn't the first time he's encountered this issue. While there might be a few nice rooms (that I haven't seen), it was made clear that I couldn't use any of the hotel's facilities, as some were off-limits. It almost feels like a scam, it seems the family is building more rooms around the few nice ones they might have. I had to walk three minutes across the street after encountering the dreadful check-in desk. It felt I was completely going away from the property. I read an article in The Times which looked stunning; I am sure that journalist hasn't seen the entire place. I am in shock and would not advise going here under any circumstances if you have expectations. There is even TL light in the room, the room is dirty, and the furniture is worst then ikea. I'm also puzzled as to why there are so many positive reviews, with only one other negative review found, leaving me uncertain about what's truly happening here.

02.10.2024

What a breathtaking place. Warm welcome, stunning palazzo, beautiful setting, superb swimming pool with view of Etna, great breakfast. Will be back!

20.08.2024

Can't fault this family run/owned place, they were super friendly and helpful. The location was fantastic, with views to Mount Etna from the swimming pool. The town is nearby for shops and restaurants, we (family with two teenagers) thoroughly enjoyed our stay and wouldn't hesitate to recommend.

09.07.2024

Me and my partner stayed here for 2 nights in July. Alfio and Costanza were excellent hosts. They were both incredibly friendly and had really helpful advice and suggestions for all the things we wanted to do and see including our Mount Etna hike, wine tasting and fabulous local restaurants. The palazzo itself is rich in history, the rooms are very clean and well maintained, the gardens were beautiful with plenty of quiet spots to sit and read my book, sip some wine with a great view of Etna and relax. Special thanks to Alfio who was very kind and made our stay really special. We will definitely stay here again.

09.06.2024

Beautiful stay for 3 nights in the garden cottage. The grounds are lovely and relaxing to explore. Breakfast wonderful each morning. Alfio and Constanza were perfect hosts and our 3 year old son was very well looked after. Be mindful there is no restaurant for lunch or dinner and remember to bring mosquito repellent!

01.06.2024

Beautiful palazzo with charming hosts - a unique experience on Etna volcano

18.04.2024

Palazzo Previtera was what I was most looking forward to during our trip to Siciliy and my biggest disappointment. If you are staying in a cottage, expect a decent "airbnb" vibe with a great view of etna but nothing more. Given their recognition as the best hotel in sicily by Conde Nast, I really expected an experience

03.03.2024

Very warm welcome at an amazingly renovated Palazzo. We love it

27.12.2023

Cerca recensioni Alexandra Catania, Italia Alexandra Valutazione: 5 stelle ,· Oggi La casa della Signora Maria e assolutamente deliziosa. Un ambiente molto familiare dove si trova tutto a portata di mano . Si può tranquillamente cucinare ,lavarsi i vestiti oppure stare in mezzo alla natura. Il giardino ti ci fa tornare bambini abbastanza grande e ben curato . Il Sg Alfio e una persona molto educata e disponibile. Si può ammirare il vulcano Etna che noi abbiamo visto la neve in questo periodo. La cosa che ho apprezzato molto e che la struttura ci ha permesso di portare il nostro cucciolo di cane quindi abbiamo passato il Natale tutti insieme. Grazie Sg Maria e Sg Alfio per la vostra cortese ospitalità.

18.12.2022

We three (my husband, daughter and I) had the most wonderful three night stay at Palazzo Previter in December 2022. The Palazzo is exquisite and beautifullly, as well as comfortably, appointed in every respect. There are books and art everywhere. We especially appreciated sitting and reading in the library. The Palazzo’s remarkable garden is enchanting and any horticulturist’s delight. The breakfasts were prepared using numerous products (fruit, juices, jams, pastes, purées etc) from the Palazzo’s own estate, and quite delicious. The dinners were beautifully prepared and elegantly presented. We had the good fortune to undertake a walk with Alfio on the Bonneherbe, with its marvellous oak and chestnut trees, and a commanding view of Linguaglossa and the Ionian sea from the peak. Alfio also organised fascinating excursions to a winery on Mt Etna and with an enthusiastic and knowledgeable guide, a trained geologist, further up the crater. Alfio was the most thoughtful, kindhearted, generous and interesting of hosts, with vast knowledge of European, Italian, Sicilian, Catanian and Etnaen history and affairs. Overall, thanks to Alfio, at times during our stay at Palazzo Previtera, we felt as if we were in a Lampedusa novel. My husband and I returned for another three nights in December 2023. All remained as before, if anything even more enchanting. The Christmas wreaths and decorations over the portal, on the balconies and throughout the palazzo were beautiful- festive, elegant and restrained. Dinner served before the fire was sensational, the excursion to Etna with Francesca Lagana, geologist, this time involving a walk through the pines, birches, beeches, oaks and (yes) maples again fascinating and heartening, and the unflappable Roberto Russo again the most reliable and agreeable of drivers. Alfio, Constanza and their team assemble and present the most thoughtful and truly wonderful experience of Etna, Catania and Sicily.

01.12.2023

Stayed here at the beginning of November, my first time in Sicily. Excellent location, the lava rock house was just superb for 1-2 people. Location very good for trekking to Etna, visiting Taormina, Syracusa and many other places in the east side of the island or just scouting around and enjoying the culture. The hosts have been my guides!!

24.10.2023

Great stay in a historic palazzo! Our highlight were the picturesque breakfast in the garden. We can highly recommend the Palazzo Previtera.

06.09.2023

We had the most magical experience at the Palazzo. Alfio and his family have taken such care and dedication to revive and preserve their family palazzo. We felt honoured to be welcomed into this magnificent place. We will treasure our memories of the palazzo for many years to come. We adored the restaurants in the small town and the proximity to Etna and its amazing wineries. Breakfast in the palazzo gardens was divine. There is nothing you can’t adore about this wonderful space. Alfio will guide you through the art and history of the palazzo with a passion and care that is so rare to come across as a tourist these days. We cannot wait to return and send our friends here to experience this magic. X

31.08.2023

Che dire! Non ci sono parole per descrivere questo incantevole palazzo, o meglio museo capolavoro di architettura, che racchiude una storia aristocratica sviluppata grazie ad uno spiccato spirito imprenditoriale. Tutto bellissimo ed affascinante; abbiamo soggiornato in una stupenda camera e scoperto, guidati dall’insostituibile Signor Alfio, una grande famiglia che ha fatto la storia in Sicilia e che si distingue per coniugare tradizione ed innovazione. Grazie per averci fatto scoprire a Linguaglossa tanti manufatti artistici che non hanno pari. Mi auguro di tornare presto!

21.08.2023

The Palazzo Previtera is a very special place . We were very well taken care of. The story of the Palazzo is so interesting full of history and art and there is also a nice big garden . The room was perfect with a nice bathroom we could not have asked for more . The breakfast was delicious, so nice . It is a place we would like to return to . The host took very good care of us and gave all information we needed. Eva Käll and Göran moser

30.05.2023

We all had such a fantastic time staying at Palazzo Previtera. Rooms and historic home were just wonderful and Alfio was always available with questions, tours, places to eat etc. Everyone in our group loved it!

30.05.2023

We spent 3 wonderful days at Palazzo Previtera. The restored palace & gardens are spectacular, and Alfie is a charming and delightful host. A lovely place to stay and well-located for visiting the sights around North Etna and Taormina. Recommend highly!!

24.05.2023

Maria This small apartment, pleasant and functional, is part of a property with an exceptionally beautiful garden with its beautiful-colored rose arbors. The bedroom, located upstairs, is comfortable and warm. The small friendly terrace, adjoining the accommodation, offers views of one of the many churches in Linguaglossa. Our welcome was very friendly and we have to thank Alfio, the owner's son, for braving the storm in order to guide us to the home. We had the privilege of visiting the family's palazzo-museum on the property and getting to know a little bit about their story, thanks to the storytelling skills and erudition of Alfio. Finally, we really loved our stay. A place to discover for sure! Ce petit appartement, agréable et fonctionnel, fait partie d'une propriété avec un jardin exceptionnellement beau avec ses magnifiques tonnelles de rosiers de couleur. La chambre, située à l'étage, est confortable et chaleureuse. La petite terrasse conviviale, attenante au logement, offre une vue sur l'une des nombreuses églises de Linguaglossa. Notre accueil était très sympathique et nous devons remercier Alfio, le fils du propriétaire, d'avoir bravé la tempête afin de nous guider vers la maison. Nous avons eu le privilège de visiter le palais-musée de la famille sur la propriété et d'en savoir un peu plus sur leur histoire, grâce aux talents de narration et à l'érudition d'Alfio. Enfin, nous avons vraiment adoré notre séjour. Un endroit à découvrir à coup sûr !

26.04.2023

From the moment I walked through the doors of this historical palazzo, I was struck by its beauty. The exhibition I attended was held in several rooms of the palazzo, each of which was adorned with stunning architectural details and artwork. The staff were welcoming and knowledgeable, and their passion for the history of the building, Linguaglossa, and the art on display was infectious. Overall, my visit to this historical palazzo was an unforgettable experience that left me with a greater appreciation for the intersection of art and architecture throughout history.

08.04.2023

Unique family run bed and breakfast with fantastic rooms overlooking the old town of Linguaglossa. I really enjoyed the history of the palazzo and its unique international art collection. The botanical garden offers a beautiful collection of roses, jasmines and old olive trees. The staff is competent and generous and they clearly raise the bar of hospitality on Etna. There is lots to see in Linguaglossa and their outstanding restaurants. I will definitely come back soon ! Highly recommend.

16.03.2023

The Palazzo Previtera is a masterpiece of architecture and history. Nestled in the heart of Linguaglossa, it has been meticulously restored to its original grandeur with the addition of modern amenities. We stayed in the garden cottage that was very cosy and featured amazing views of Mt. Etna and the town. Every morning, we were treated to a delightful breakfast spread in the main abode that included fresh fruits from the garden and homemade marmalade. One of the highlights of the Palazzo Previtera is its beautiful and unique interiors, in which you could enjoy a coffee or a good book while soaking in the view, atmosphere and sunshine. What truly sets this accommodation apart is their hospitality. Our host, Alfio was very welcoming and friendly. He gave us an insightful tour of the palazzo and its rich history. Alfio also provided good restaurant recommendations and kindly organised excursions for us, upon request. We can't recommend the palazzo enough and would definitely stay here again during our next visit to Sicily.

14.03.2023

Alfio è il valore aggiunto di questo palazzo che unisce storia e modernità! Bellissimo il giardino con rose antiche, piantine di tè ed alberi da frutto tra cui spiccano ciliegi antichi. Soggiorno unico in un ambiente curato e stimolante.

13.03.2023

Bellissima atmosfera e accoglienza della famiglia Puglisi a Palazzo Previtera. Grazie Alfio per averci accompagnato nella storia della tua famiglia e degli splendidi artisti che ospitate e averci messo a disposizione la vostra splendida casa.

11.03.2023

Eccellente!

05.03.2023

A beautiful historic palazzo is now a bed and breakfast. Rooms are luxurious , comfortable beds and offers beautiful views of Etna and the old bell towers . Breakfast is beautifully presented with seasonal ingredients from their farm . The art collection of this Palazzo is beautiful . Totally white lotus vibes !!

04.03.2023

Fantastic bed and breakfast on the slopes of Etna . We stayed at the palazzo for a week and we booked the suite ;the bathroom with the jacuzzi is stunning we enjoyed the daily dose of home spa after our daily walks around Etna. The art centre at the palazzo offers a beautiful selection of contemporary art. We will definitely come back !

04.03.2023

Fantastic family-run B&B! The palazzo is beautiful with centuries of history to explore. You can even read books and texts from the 17th century and learn about the previous family generations. The family are very hospitable and serve local produce, which is fresh and varies by season all year long. Our 7-month son particularly enjoyed the local cauliflower and brocolli (grown during the winter) as we visited in February.

03.03.2023

We overnachtten in de cottage gebouwd op een oude lavastroom en werden wakker met een uitzicht op een besneeuwde Etna en de uitgebreide privé binnentuin. Alfio ontving ons met veel enthousiasme en aandacht met tips voor de beste bars en restaurants in Linguaglossa en een fascinerende rondleiding door het palazzo van zijn familie. We hopen snel terug te keren!

20.02.2023

Very kind hosts, great location, you can see the Etna from the bedroom. All the necessary facilities are in. Tha Palazzo is amazing. Highly recommended

11.01.2023

I went to the Palazzo for a romantic vacation and I had the most wonderful time. The tailored daily breakfast gave me a taste of Sicily and it was wonderful to wake up every morning to a surprise menu. I also loved the Palazzo as a place to rest and all the different rooms where one could read and learn some Sicilian History. Lastly I absolutely loved the evening cooking classes at the Palazzo!! I continually try to recreate the wonderful pasta dishes at home with my friends and family.

04.01.2023

Palazzo Previtera is the place to stay for an truly authentic Sicilian experience. Alfio is the most amazing host who goes above and beyond to ensure you have a memorable experience. Breakfast in the Palazzo garden makes the perfect start to the day, being severed local fruits and pastries while looking out on Mount Etna. The Palazzo is also full of history and beautiful rooms which Alfio is happy to share. Thanks again for a wonderful stay!