we booked Hotel Grilli on the recommendation of a friend which was quite scary as we were taking a gamble on the fact that the hotel offered the great service and value for money that we were told. Well, we needn't have worried. we were met at the gates of the hotel by the owner and all the staff (including the waiters!) who welcomed us with open arms and carried our bags to the room.

the following morning we went up (the restaurant is on the top floor and has beautiful views over Cassamicciola town) and were served proper espresso coffee, juice and a complete continental breakfast. If you want anything in particular for breakfast the staff will do everything they can to accommodate you, although the only thing we ever required was hot water for the baby and cereal for the toddler, which the staff were always happy to help with.

the first day was spent by the fantastic volcanic, thermal, hot salt water swimming pool which was truly relaxing. we all felt totally... more