We have really shot ourselves in the foot for future OD rentals as I think we found the best our first time out! We arrived at the meeting point just before Midnight and that was no trouble for Loredana, she was happy to meet us whatever time we arrived and show us to her beautiful villa, which is on a peaceful nature reserve, so there were a couple of gates to negotiate, but all the better when we woke up the following morning to the most spectacular unspoilt view. The Villa was perfect for the two of us, just what we needed. We thought most mornings we would have breakfast by the pool and then either lunch or dinner out and the other in. The kitchen was ideal with all the pans, cutlery and crockery you would need to prepare a meal - quick word of advice though, there is no salt and pepper, washing up liquid, bin liners etc provided so you may want to bring little containers of your own, save having to buy big bottles/packs when you get there. Also if you arrive early, unlike us, get some water, beer, milk and coffee/tea on your way so you can have a drink while you're unpacking.
The first day we got our bearings - a car is an absolute MUST - The local towns/villages of Castellammare del Golfo and Scopello are pretty equidistant and Castellammare has the big Mercado supermarkets but we preferred the little local market in Scopello which is full of the basics and beautiful ready prepared food and a great deli, but check them both out.
The next day the weather was a bit stormy so Loredana suggested we do some sightseeing so we went to Palermo which is frenetically busy, as you'd expect, even my husband, who is used to Italian driving, got a bit hot under the collar! followed by lunch and a visit to peaceful Monreale and its famous mosaic decorated Catherdal, which is a must.
After that first day or two the weather settled down so we spent most of our days just relaxing by the pool in end and then going out late afternoon - shops close between 1 and 3/4 but are open late in the evenings.
We found the town of Erice stunning, we went up to Scopello for dinner in the market square while the football was on (Italy v Spain) which was a brilliant atmosphere. We went to the seaside town of San Vito lo Capo and then the ruins at Segesta at sunset, Marsala and Trapani but we didn't feel we'd pushed ourselves which was lovely. I'd advise don't try and do too much in one visit, just visit several times!
We will be back Loredana, Thank you again