We stayed a couple of nights in pre-season (May). We only found Mama Santina by accident and it is a true hidden gem. Easily the best hotel we stayed in throughout a three week holiday in Sicily and the Aeolian Islands.

Service was amazingly friendly throughout. Made us feel home away from home. The room was large, clean with a balcony looking out at the sea.

Food was also very good.

Absolutely recommendable.

We arrived at the port on Salina in May after a ferry ride from Messina. Not a lot happening but a call to the hotel resulted in the quick arrival of the "limo" to pick us up. Actually just a battered small truck typical of the island transport. No is is not sophisticated, but it was soon apparent that everything worked and the hotel staff were eager to make your stay enjoyable. Rooms are mediteranean style - simple, sunny and comfortable. We loved the view from our window towards other Aeolian Islands.
If you feel energetic they will arrange any activities you like. Cars will be brought to the hotel for you to explore the island or you can just relax by the pool. The village is small but the quality of the shops is surprisingly good and the people are very friendly. We loved our evening walk down the main street greeting and even "talking" to some locals (we speak very little italian but still managed to communicate).
Limited restaraunts but we had no reason to dine away from the hotel. Food was wonderful, wine suggestions were spot on (and reasonably priced).
The location was great, hotel was lovely and the staff were charming and very helpful. As others have said - allow more time than you think to truly enjoy the island life.

At the end of the season when most places are jaded and ready to close in the Aeolian Isles this small hotel gave excellent service, helpful advice and convinced us that the charm of the Aeolians and Salina in particular is unique in the whole of Italy. When we arrived (last week of October) we were the only guests there but nothing was too much trouble.

When our friends flight was diverted due to Etna erupting and they missed their first night Mamma Santina refused to charge them as they thought they had suffered enough by missing a night on the island... fair play and not many hotels would do that.

Clean, and reasonably priced with superb views and a pretty good dinner makes this a great spot to base yourself for exploring the Aeolians.

Pretty much the perfect way to round of 2 weeks in Sicily.Beautiful room, superb food and staff that couldnt have been more helpful.
Nothing too much trouble-A phone call from Alessio to local guide and the night time trip up Stromboli was sorted
Many thanks
See you again
Ewan and Mandy Hamnett