To start, the property is dated and that much is apparent from the photos so this review is on the basis that the dated decor and slightly out of dated facilities is already known.
The pros - the view is unbelievable, of the town and Mount Etna on one side and the bay on the other. The position is also excellent, being opposite the Florence Trevelyn park (which adds to the view). The staff are very friendly especially the barman and cleaners. The bar is good as is the light lunch. The pool area is lovely, well kept and well decorated with plants. The building itself is beautiful, and in some ways the dated decor adds to the charm (the breakfast room is like a 1920s ballroom).
The cons - the air conditioning is old, loud and not terribly effective. We were there in early September and it was fine, but in the height of summer it might be quite uncomfortable. The breakfast is fine, but the coffee is disappointing by Italian standards, being from a machine (the coffee at the pool bar is great though).
Overall excellent for the price.