Eremo della Giubiliana

Eremo della Giubiliana, a Michelin Key Selected property nestled in the Iblean highlands near Ragusa Ibla, Italy, consistently receives glowing reviews as a truly exceptional and memorable destination. This historic country house, originally a 14th-century fortress and monastery, offers guests a unique blend of historical charm, modern luxury, and authentic Sicilian hospitality.

1. Overall Rating & Sentiment

The overall sentiment for Eremo della Giubiliana is overwhelmingly positive, with guests frequently describing it as a "wonderful stay" and "one of the best places" they have ever experienced. Many consider it a "very special place" and a "hidden sanctuary far from the chaos of the world." It is praised as a "remarkably posh boutique hotel" and "splendid luxury rural accommodation," known for providing an elegant and sophisticated escape.

2. Key Highlights

Guests consistently laud the beautiful complex and grounds, which maintain their original atmosphere with handmade period furnishings, fine fabrics, rare maps, and a 17th-century painting. The staff's exceptional friendliness and helpfulness are frequently highlighted. The hotel's strategic location serves as an ideal base for exploring Baroque Sicily, ancient Greek ruins, and the region's natural beauty, with tours and day trips organized by the property. Amenities like the swimming pool, spa treatments, and a private beach for guests further enhance the experience. The property also stands out for offering unique activities such as cooking classes, wine/oil tastings, and ricotta-making experiences. Its gated security and picturesque views, which on clear days can extend to Malta and the African coast, add to its allure. Uniquely, Eremo della Giubiliana even boasts a private airstrip for aviation enthusiasts.

3. Room Quality

The rooms, originally converted friars' cells, are celebrated for their comfort and elegant design. Each room is unique, furnished with Sicilian-style pieces, original family artifacts, and modern conveniences such as air conditioning, satellite TV LCD, and private bathrooms. The use of original materials, including ancient pitch stone and limestone floorings, adds to their character. Some rooms feature balconies, and Deluxe rooms offer private terraces and spacious bathrooms with massage function tubs. Many rooms overlook the fragrant "Orto degli aromi," a garden filled with aromatic and Mediterranean herbs.

4. Dining Experience

The dining experience at Eremo della Giubiliana is a significant highlight. The Don Eusebio Restaurant is highly regarded for its delicious regional cooking, passionately interpreting Sicilian tradition by blending age-old recipes of the Hyblean aristocracy with local and seasonal products. Breakfast is described as good with a wide variety of choices. Guests have particularly enjoyed light lunches featuring local produce. The hotel also boasts a wine cellar in an old crypt, offering a selection of the best Sicilian wines, and a fascinating tea room adorned with antique maps.

5. Service & Staff

The service and staff at Eremo della Giubiliana consistently receive high praise. Guests report staff being "extremely helpful," "anticipating our needs," and "very friendly." The hospitality is often described as exceptional and outstanding, with specific mentions of "Gianna" for her exceptional assistance, including guiding guests from the airport in thick fog. The personal attention of the hotel owners, supported by a diligent and professional team, contributes to a warm, cordial, and discreet atmosphere, making guests feel immediately at home. The responsiveness and kindness of the staff are also frequently noted.

6. Location & Accessibility

Located approximately 8 kilometers from Ragusa, Eremo della Giubiliana is situated in the picturesque Iblean highlands, surrounded by a countryside rich with carob trees and dry-stone walls. Its strategic position in eastern Sicily makes it an ideal base for exploring major attractions such as Ragusa, Taormina, Siracusa, Agrigento, Modica, and Noto, with many sites accessible in less than an hour by car. The hotel offers free parking for guests, and for those seeking ultimate convenience, a private airstrip is also available.

7. Value & Pricing

While specific pricing varies, Eremo della Giubiliana is positioned as a luxury property, with rates starting from approximately 200.00 EUR. Guests generally perceive the hotel as offering excellent value for the experience, considering it a "special place" that provides a splendid and posh accommodation experience. The comprehensive offerings, from the historic ambiance and unique amenities to the high level of service and dining, contribute to its perceived worth.

8. Common Complaints

While reviews are overwhelmingly positive, one minor recurring criticism mentions occasional "cobwebs and dust in the corners" of rooms and a suggestion for "small updates to rooms," such as improvements to shower heads. However, these appear to be isolated points in an otherwise pristine guest experience.

Sources

1. booking.com
2. justsicily.co.uk
3. secretplaces.com
4. michelin.com
5. booking.com
6. charmingsicily.com
7. eremodellagiubiliana.it
8. eremodellagiubiliana.it
9. booking.com