Relais Chiaramonte

Relais Chiaramonte: A Modern Sicilian Agriturismo with Breathtaking Views

Relais Chiaramonte, a Michelin Key Selected property in Ragusa Ibla, Italy, offers a serene and luxurious escape that seamlessly blends modern design with the rustic charm of Sicilian agriculture. Guests consistently praise its stunning panoramic views, impeccable service, and high-quality dining, making it a highly recommended destination for travelers seeking relaxation and an authentic regional experience.

1. Overall Rating & Sentiment

The general consensus for Relais Chiaramonte is overwhelmingly positive, with an impressive overall rating of 9.2 on Agoda and 9.1 on Booking.com. It is frequently described as "exceptional" and "wonderful" by guests who laud its tranquil atmosphere and beautiful surroundings. The property also holds excellent scores from Michelin Guide guests, with high marks across rooms (19.1/20), facilities (19.2/20), cleanliness (19.3/20), common areas (19.3/20), and overall experience (19.2/20).

2. Key Highlights

Guests consistently rave about several aspects of Relais Chiaramonte:

• Stunning Views: The hotel boasts breathtaking panoramic views of the Sicilian countryside, including olive groves and the sea, visible from various parts of the property and many rooms.
• Exceptional Service: The staff is frequently highlighted for being "amazingly helpful and pleasant," "professional and friendly," and "guest-oriented".
• Modern Design & Facilities: While embracing an agriturismo concept, the property features unapologetically modern architecture and stylish, minimalist interiors with references to classic farmhouse style. Amenities include an infinity swimming pool, a spa, a fitness center, and free Wi-Fi.
• High-Quality Dining: The on-site restaurant and breakfast options receive consistent praise for their quality and delicious offerings, often utilizing products farmed directly on the estate.
• Cleanliness: Relais Chiaramonte maintains an exceptional cleanliness rating of 9.7, with guests frequently commending the spotless condition of rooms and common areas.

3. Room Quality

The 25 rooms and suites at Relais Chiaramonte are described as spacious, comfortable, and impeccably clean, featuring modern amenities and tasteful decor. Many rooms offer balconies or terraces with magnificent views of the farms or the sea. Specific room types include Deluxe Double Rooms with Balcony, Suites with Spa Access, and Suites with Private Pools. Some rooms also include a kitchenette. While generally praised, a minor point of feedback notes that some sofa beds in larger rooms could impact space.

4. Dining Experience

Dining at Relais Chiaramonte is a significant highlight for many guests. The on-site restaurant, "Gramole," serves high-quality Italian cuisine with vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options, heavily relying on products from the hotel's working olive farm and other local Sicilian sources. Dinner is often described as "exceptional" with excellent food and wine selections.

Breakfast receives equally strong accolades, frequently referred to as "fantastic," "unbelievably delicious," and "super good," offering continental, buffet, and à la carte selections, including a diverse range of pastries, cheeses, and bread. However, some guests have noted that breakfast choices can be more limited if arriving late, and the breakfast room can sometimes be hot.

5. Service & Staff

The service and staff at Relais Chiaramonte consistently receive high praise, with a rating of 9.5 for staff on Booking.com and 9.6 for service on Agoda. Guests describe the team as "excellent and guest-oriented," "friendly and helpful," and "warm and attentive". Specific mentions include Valentina at reception and Gonzalo for his wine knowledge during dinner. The multilingual staff is also appreciated.

6. Location & Accessibility

Relais Chiaramonte is situated in a tranquil countryside location in Ragusa, offering a peaceful retreat amidst olive groves. While not directly in Ragusa Ibla's historic center, it provides stunning unspoiled outlooks. It is recommended to have a rental car to explore the surrounding area, as attractions like Ragusa, Modica, Scicli, Castello di Donnafugata, and beaches like Marina di Ragusa and Spiaggia Donnalucata are typically within a 20-30 minute drive. The hotel is approximately 32 km from Comiso Airport. Free parking is available on-site.

7. Value & Pricing

Relais Chiaramonte is considered to offer "incredible value for money," with an exceptional rating of 9.3 for value on Agoda and 9.0 on Booking.com. The average price per room is around $148, which is seen as excellent given the luxury amenities and services provided. Guests feel the price is "really good for everything that this hotel offers".

8. Common Complaints

While reviews are overwhelmingly positive, a few minor recurring issues have been noted:

• Breakfast Service and Replenishment: Some guests experienced poor breakfast service or limited choices when arriving late, and the breakfast room can be hot.
• Restaurant Booking and Availability: A few guests reported limitations regarding food availability at the restaurant due to booking constraints or noted a somewhat limited menu for extended stays.
• Additional Fees for Wellness Facilities: Certain amenities, particularly some spa treatments and wellness facilities, may incur extra fees that were not always anticipated by visitors.
• Unheated Pool (seasonal observation): One review mentioned the pool not being heated and the area being windy during their September stay, suggesting it might be better suited for warmer months.
• Noise from Private Events: One guest experienced noise from a private party in the restaurant late into the night, which affected their quiet enjoyment.
• Room Maintenance (isolated): An isolated complaint mentioned rooms being finished very basically and walls needing maintenance, particularly during a period when staff seemed overwhelmed by multiple weddings.

Sources

1. agoda.com
2. booking.com
3. booking.com
4. michelin.com
5. michelin.com
6. agoda.com
7. tablethotels.com
8. wheree.com
9. justsicily.co.uk
10. hotels.com
11. booking.com
12. sicilyhotelsitaly.net
13. agriturismo.it