Grand Hotel Selinunte

The scene here is....scenery. Set in the laid back, though lovely, countryside, the grounds resemble a well-tended, colorfully landscaped estate garden, but the four-story building itself is somewhat lacking in flavor. On first approach, it may remind American suburbanites of apartment complexes back home. Most guests are European and middle-aged. While there is a sleek, fairly large bar, this probably isn't the place for 20-something partiers. It's likely not ideal for families with young children either, as there isn't any entertainment geared to them.

The primary drawback to this property is its location. It's situated in the middle of the countryside, and while the farmland is lovely, most guests may prefer more dining options nearby and easier transportation to the tourist areas of Sicily. Renting a car would be a smart move. The hotel does provide a free shuttle to and from the heart of Castelvetrano three times a day. The town offers shopping and dining options, as well as Teatro Selinus, the "Free Theatre of Castelvetrano," which resembles a historic opera house. From there, guests can switch to a bus to go to Palermo, but the total trip takes an hour and a half each way -- quite a haul, especially if traveling with small children. A shorter excursion is the 20-minute ride south to the Archaelogical Park of Selinunte. These Greek ruins include an acropolis and an agora, set on a bluff overlooking the Mediterranean. The hotel does arrange for an airport shuttle (for a fee), but the ride is over an hour, so allow enough time to catch your flight.

Rooms here are of average size (for Europe) and don't vary much from one to the other, apart from the size and number of beds. Groups will appreciate that the Quad Standard Room can fit up to four guests and has three separate beds; cots are also available. A safe is available for use (it's free). There's are minibars, and satellite TVs are of the old tube variety. Bathrooms are a bit better equipped than is typical for Sicily, with rainfall shower heads and a bidet in addition to a regular toilet. The most appealing part of the rooms are the balconies, which overlook different (but equally scenic) views.

The swimming pool is large and clean, and the area is tiled in an attractive Mediterranean style. Several modern showers are available. There isn't much shade around the pool, though, which considering the climate could be a problem for kids and the elderly. One tennis court is available, but it seems to be in need of repair as cracks are appearing in the clay. The fare in the one restaurant is heavy on cold antipasta dishes, though these are generally tastier and more original than the hot dishes. Wi-Fi is free in common areas. A elegantly landscaped rooftop terrace is available to all guests for relaxing with a cocktail from the bar. A free breakfast buffet is limited in selection but adequate. Free parking is also available.