06/15/2026
Long Post/Review: Hotel Carmine, Marsala, Sicily
Originally constructed around 1155. It was a convent for mendicant orders and then home to the Carmelite friars. In the 16th century a portion of the convent became barracks for Spanish troops. After years of severe neglect, the complex underwent a restoration. They salvaged many of the original architectural elements: original stone paving in the atrium, exposed chestnut-wood beams, stone vaults, and intricate antique Sicilian majolica tile floors. The convent's traditional cloister has been transformed into the hotel's inner courtyard and garden.
If you are looking for a true authentic feel, this property is great. The location is perfect. The walkability is topnotch with restaurants, museums and the sea all within walking distance. Beaches with Lidos (Beach Clubs) are about a 20 minute drive.
Each room is drastically different. For example:
* Room 24 is on the 2nd floor and is two stories with the bathroom and a table on the lower level, and the bed(s) on the second floor. The shower is tiny (typical in old European hotels).
* Room 7 is on the main floor, with a large bathroom and shower. However, breakfast is served directly above this room and is loud starting about 7:00am with lots of scraping of chairs and tables. There is no window, but a curtain. If you pull it aside you will find an exterior door that is not used.
There is extremely limited storage and power outlets. Beds were hard. Some staining on sheets, but they were clean.
The staff was very friendly and accommodating. There is a small bar where you can get a cafe in the morning and drinks in the evening. You may need to grab the receptionist, but they are happy to help. There is also a nice inner courtyard with furniture and a resident cat. On the upper floor there is an atrium with seating.
They supply a body wash/shampoo combo, no conditioner. The shower pressure and temperature were fantastic.