Taormina, ItalyHistoric Center
Villa Mabel
Fin-de-siècle lacemaker's villa
Fin-de-siècle lacemaker's villa
A local family runs this nineteenth-century lacemaker's home with unhurried warmth, welcoming guests onto open terraces above the bay.
What it’s good at
Notable
A nineteenth-century villa founded by English philanthropist and lacemaking pioneer Mabel Hill.
Listed
Original late nineteenth-century tiled floors and high ceilings balance modern rain showers.
What they say
Michelin Selected
Michelin
The building was restored rather than rebuilt, retaining its aristocratic proportions and street presence.
Right in the middle
Well-located: walkable to some things, a short ride to more.
Salita Acropoli sits directly above Corso Umberto, and Piazza IX Aprile is a short walk downhill.
The rooms
High-ceilinged bedrooms keep their antique majolica tile floors, and select suites open onto wrought-iron balconies facing the sea.
How it began
English philanthropist Mabel Hill established the villa in 1898, hosting visiting artists while running a lacemaking school for local women.
Taormina
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Our shorthand
How we rate hotels.
The medals
Gold
Extremely rare. Sets the global standard.
Silver
Brilliant execution. And we’re picky.
Bronze
They did this well. You’ll notice.
Listed
A defining trait. Makes the hotel what it is.
The eight vibes
Design
Built around a vision. Even the door handles have a designer.
Luxe
Cared for at every turn. The bath is drawn before you ask.
Local
It could only be here. You wake up knowing where you are.
Social
Where the city goes out. The bar is full and the night is young.
Heritage
A building with a story. Once a palace, a monastery, a station.
Wellness
You leave feeling new. Rest, sweat, soak and sleep like a stone.
Classic
The city grew up with it. Same rituals, same regulars, same bar.
Resort
A world of its own. Something to do from breakfast to nightcap.
The scene
Lively
Where things happen: restaurants, shops, people.
Central
Well-located: walkable to some things, a short ride to more.
Quiet
Away from the crowds. Getting around takes intention.
Secluded
A place apart: the property is the destination.