Metropole Taormina Maison D'Hotes

Metropole Taormina Maison D'Hotes, a Michelin Key Selected property, consistently garners high praise for its exceptional location, stunning views, and outstanding service, offering a luxurious experience in the heart of Taormina, Italy.

1. Overall Rating & Sentiment

The general consensus for Metropole Taormina Maison D'Hotes is overwhelmingly positive, with guests frequently describing their stays as "exceptional" and "superb". Verified guests through the Michelin Guide give it an impressive score of 19.3 out of 20. Many reviews highlight it as a top choice in Taormina, with some even suggesting it surpasses other well-known luxury hotels in terms of staff accommodation.

2. Key Highlights

Guests consistently rave about several standout features:

• Location: Its prime position directly on Corso Umberto, Taormina's main promenade, offers immediate access to the town's vibrant atmosphere while providing a tranquil retreat with breathtaking sea views.
• Views: Panoramic vistas of the coast and the Bay of Naxos are a major draw, particularly from rooms, balconies, the bar, and the breakfast area.
• Service & Staff: The hospitality is frequently lauded as a significant highlight, with staff noted for being friendly, attentive, helpful, and often going "above and beyond" for guests.
• Design & Ambiance: The hotel, an 18th-century noble residence, seamlessly blends old-world splendor with contemporary Italian style, featuring clean lines, a focused palette, and high-end furnishings from brands like Poltrona Frau and Minotti.
• Amenities: The seasonal outdoor infinity pool with its seamless sea view is a particular favorite. A full-service spa with a hammam, hot tub, and massage services is also available.

3. Room Quality

The 25 rooms and suites are described as luxurious, spacious, comfortable, and beautifully designed. Many offer private balconies with magnificent sea views. In-room amenities include air conditioning, large private bathrooms, LCD TVs with satellite channels, premium bedding, soft robes, slippers, and designer toiletries from Ortigia. While generally praised, some feedback mentions that room finishing might not always meet 5-star expectations, and some lower-level or "basement" rooms can be dark or claustrophobic. Bi-level suites may also not be ideal for those with mobility issues.

4. Dining Experience

The dining experience is a strong point for Metropole Taormina. Guests consistently praise the highly-rated breakfast, which offers a continental, Italian, and buffet selection, often with fresh fruits and spectacular views from the dining room. The on-site restaurant, Bellevue Bistrot (also known as Metropole Neo Bistrot), specializes in typical Sicilian cuisine and local specialties with a modern twist, serving lunch and dinner with ocean views. The bar also receives positive mentions for its quality drinks and the stunning views it offers.

5. Service & Staff

The hotel's staff and service are frequently cited as exceptional, with numerous guests highlighting their warmth, professionalism, attentiveness, and willingness to assist with requests. Specific individuals, such as Danilo at reception and particular barmen, have been commended for their helpfulness and personalized service.

6. Location & Accessibility

Metropole Taormina Maison D'Hotes boasts an "exceptional" and "perfect" central location on Corso Umberto, the main street of Taormina. Despite being central, it is noted for not being noisy, as its design often opens towards the sea. This prime spot offers easy access to local shops, bars, restaurants, and key attractions such as the Taormina Cable Car and Isola Bella. Fontanarossa Airport is approximately 60 km away, and the hotel offers airport shuttle services for an additional charge.

7. Value & Pricing

As a luxury 5-star hotel and a Michelin Key Selected property, the Metropole Taormina Maison D'Hotes is positioned at a premium price point. While specific rates vary by season and room type, some reviews indicate an average of around €570 per night, though prices can start from around $244. Guests generally consider it a worthwhile investment given the overall exceptional experience, often feeling it offers better value than some higher-priced competitors. Additional costs include a city tax of EUR 5.00 per person per night (for up to 10 nights) and valet parking at EUR 50 per day.

8. Common Complaints

While overwhelmingly positive, some recurring criticisms have been noted:

• Noise: Some guests reported noise disturbances from the street, the heating system, or the continuous operation of outdoor jacuzzis in lower rooms, which could impact sleep quality with open balcony doors.
• Pool Safety: A few guests mentioned that the steps and floor of the pool could be extremely slippery, posing a safety hazard.
• Breakfast Area Hygiene: One review highlighted an issue with bees being present around the breakfast buffet, landing on food, and some even trapped in chafing dishes, raising hygiene concerns.
• Spa Services: A negative experience was reported regarding an outsourced pedicure service, described as poor and expensive, with the hotel staff stating they couldn't intervene.
• Air Conditioning Issues: One guest experienced problems with the air conditioning that were not adequately resolved during their stay.
• Pricing of Hotel Bar Drinks: The prices of drinks at the hotel bar were noted as being significantly higher than in local establishments.
• Child Policy/Facilities: The hotel is generally considered "adults only" and does not provide cots for children, with some outdoor spaces potentially not suitable for younger guests.

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