El Mosaico del Sol

The atmosphere at El Mosaico del Sol is at once artsy and serene, with a distinct Mexican-meets-Mediterranean flavor. The pale yellow facade is fronted with large cacti and an orange railing, making for a cheerful entrance from the cobblestone street. Warm yellow and orange walls decorate the reception area and breakfast room, while the half-moon-shaped pool is tucked away, with a hammock and nearby table and chairs that can be used to enjoy breakfast outdoors. There's also an outdoor shower here, with yellow tile and wooden walls for privacy. The rooftop terrace has a beautiful sea view and is lined with lounge chairs in the sun, plus tables and chairs in shaded spots. The terrace hosts happy hours in the evening, and the common barbecue area has a charming, mosaic-tile brick oven and similarly tiled tables, along with cushioned seating beneath a slated wood roof. The laid-back atmosphere is fitting for all types of travelers, including families with children. 

The hotel is located about 50 meters from the old port of Lampedusa on the edge of the city center, surrounded by other hotels, shops, and private homes. It’s a 10-minute walk to Via Roma, where many restaurants are located. The nearest beach is a one-minute walk from the hotel, and it’s less than a five-minute drive to the airport (the hotel offers free transfers). Popular Rabbit Beach is a 20-minute drive from the hotel, also accessible by free hotel shuttle. All guests have access to free scooters to get around the island.

The 15 suites here are spacious, and each room is decorated in one major soft color with vibrant contrasting and complementary accents in textiles and details. Some suites have soft gold, aqua, and orange walls, while others have bright yellow walls and teal fabrics. Wood cabinetry, desks, and trim on the plaster walls, along with charming accessories -- wicker mirrors, hanging lantern-style lamps, artwork featuring Sicilian landscapes -- complete the breezy and bright look. All suites have canopy or curtained beds, which gives them a romantic vibe, and each has a kitchenette with a two-burner stove, sink, and dishware. Rooms also include air-conditioning, safes, and minibars with free soft drinks, and while some rooms have flat-screen TVs with satellite channels, other rooms have tiny tube-style TVs. Bathrooms are spacious, with narrow stall showers, bidets, and toiletries. It’s possible to have three adjoining suites. Guests should know that rooms on lower floors may pick up street noise.

The hotel serves a free daily buffet breakfast with croissants, fruit, Italian cheeses and meats, and proper Italian coffee. The roof-deck has beautiful sea views and often hosts evening happy hours with food; lunch and dinner trips aboard a small sailboat can also be arranged. There’s a half-moon shaped outdoor pool and a hot tub, though there are no lounge chairs. The owner is a friendly and welcoming feature at the hotel, going out of his way for nearly all guest requests. Free scooter use and beach towels are offered, as are free airport transfers and a free shuttle to Rabbit Beach. Guests are allowed to use barbecue facilities on the terrace. Wi-Fi is free in the hotel's common areas.