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Grand Hotel Sofia

Noto , Via Confalonieri (Show on Map)

8.2

Very Good

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1 room2 guests 1 room, 2 guests

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Summary of reviewsGrand Hotel Sofia in Noto earns high acclaim from guests across various aspects, predominantly for its prime location, breakfast offerings, dining experiences, room quality, cleanliness and staff service.

The hotel’s strategic position at the city’s entrance offers easy access to Noto’s historic center within a 10 to 15-minute walk while also providing a serene retreat away from the city's traffic. Ample private parking and proximity to major highways make it an ideal base for exploring the eastern Sicily region. The locale is further enhanced by scenic hilltop views, which contribute to its tranquil and convenient setting.

Breakfast at Grand Hotel Sofia is frequently praised for its variety and quality with guests especially enjoying the local Sicilian pastries, fresh fruit and freshly made orange juice. The breakfast area is described as clean and lively with attentive staff ensuring a pleasant dining experience. Despite some isolated critiques, most feedback highlights a rich and balanced breakfast spread.

Dinner experiences are similarly well-regarded with guests often describing the food as very good to superb and noting the romantic ambiance, impeccable service and professional staff. Although a few guests mentioned dissatisfaction with certain dishes and the higher prices, the overall dining experience remains a strong point for most visitors.

The spacious and clean rooms are another highlight with visitors appreciating the large beds, modern amenities and balconies. The hotel's excellent housekeeping ensures a consistently pristine environment throughout the property, despite minor mentions of outdated bathroom fixtures and occasional noise due to non-soundproof walls.

The hotel's staff receives consistent praise for their friendliness, helpfulness and professionalism. Guests frequently note the exceptional customer service from all staff members, contributing significantly to the hotel’s welcoming atmosphere.

The on-site spa is lauded for its quality and relaxing ambiance, though some guests note the additional cost and inconvenient access requirements. The pool area is well-liked for its size and cleanliness, though a few guests suggest improvements in maintenance and amenities.

Parking at Grand Hotel Sofia is noted as a significant advantage with ample, secure and free spaces available, enhancing the convenience for guests traveling by car.

Families find the hotel particularly accommodating with spacious rooms and a welcoming atmosphere for children. Guests frequently note the comfort provided by the large, comfortable beds and the overall family-friendly environment.

In terms of WiFi, experiences vary. While some guests report strong connections, others find the service slower or less reliable in certain areas. Nevertheless, free WiFi remains a positive feature overall.

In summary, Grand Hotel Sofia stands out for its excellent location, rich breakfast and dining options, spacious and clean rooms, attentive staff and practical amenities like ample parking. These features collectively ensure a memorable and pleasant stay for guests exploring Noto and its surroundings.
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Hotel for Honeymoon

Located in Noto, Grand Hotel Sofia offers comfortable accommodations and convenient access to the city's attractions. Its classic charm and attentive service make it a pleasant choice for a honeymoon.

Hotel with Spa

Located in Noto, this hotel features a seasonal outdoor pool with parasols and sun loungers, plus a spa for relaxation. It's situated within the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Noto.

Family Friendly Hotel

This hotel offers family-friendly services and activities. It has an outdoor pool, a restaurant and provides breakfast. Laundry services and a spa and wellness center are available.

Dog Friendly Hotel

This hotel provides a blend of comfort and convenience, with potential pet-friendly amenities. Its established reputation and facilities suggest a welcoming environment for dogs, making it a reliable option for pet owners. They provide excellent service.

Hotel with Swimming Pool

The Grand Hotel Sofia provides a refreshing swimming pool experience. The hotel's elegant ambiance enhances the overall appeal for guests seeking a blend of luxury and comfort.

Outdoor Pool

Hotel with Parking

The hotel provides parking, a swimming pool and comfortable accomodations. It is a nice hotel for a quiet stay.

Accessible Hotel

Grand Hotel Sofia is highlighted as an accessible hotel in Noto with features like wheelchair access, accessible bathrooms with grab bars, raised toilet seats, and low-height counters and sinks. It also offers wheelchair-accessible parking and paths of travel.

4-Star Hotel

Offers upscale amenities and stunning views of the surrounding countryside. It provides a perfect retreat after a day of exploration, with excellent breakfast offerings and a friendly staff.

Hotel with Outdoor Pool

This hotel offers a luxurious outdoor pool area. It provides a sophisticated experience with high-end amenities and excellent service, ideal for discerning travelers.

Romantic Hotel

Business Hotel

Room Types

Junior Suite Boasting a circular bed, spa bath and daily newspaper, this spacious and elegant suite features air conditioning, a flat-screen TV and a furnished balcony. It also includes a minibar, safe, and a private bathroom with hairdryer. Wi-Fi is free.

Double or Twin Room This modern and spacious air-conditioned room features a flat-screen TV and a furnished balcony. It also includes a minibar, safe, and a private bathroom with hairdryer. Wi-Fi is free.

Presidential Suite The spa bath is the standout feature of this suite. This suite comes with 1 living room, 1 separate bedroom and 2 bathrooms with a bidet and free toiletries. This suite is air-conditioned and has a seating area with a flat-screen TV, a minibar, a wardrobe, a safe deposit box, as well as a tiled floor. The unit has 3 beds.

Family Room Featuring free toiletries, this family room includes a private bathroom with a shower, a bidet and a hairdryer. Boasting a balcony, this family room also features air conditioning, a minibar and a flat-screen TV. The unit has 3 beds.

Superior Double Room The spacious double room features air conditioning, a minibar, as well as a private bathroom boasting a bidet and a hairdryer. Featuring a balcony, this double room also provides a wardrobe, a safe deposit box and a flat-screen TV. The unit has 1 bed.

Family Suite Guests will have a special experience as the suite features a spa bath. This suite consists of 1 living room, 2 separate bedrooms and 1 bathroom with a bidet and free toiletries. Featuring a balcony, this suite also provides air conditioning, a minibar and a flat-screen TV. The unit offers 4 beds.

Standard Triple Room Providing free toiletries, this triple room includes a private bathroom with a shower, a bidet and a hairdryer. Featuring a balcony, this triple room also provides air conditioning, a minibar and a flat-screen TV.

About Grand Hotel Sofia

License: 19089013A201554, IT089013A1255O65T4

Guest Reviews

8.2

Very Good

Location

The Grand Hotel Sofia's guests frequently praise its prime location, making it a standout choice for visitors to Noto. Perched strategically at the city's entrance, this hotel offers easy access to the historic center, which can be reached on foot in about 10 to 15 minutes. Its position away from the city's traffic zones ensures a quiet and peaceful stay, yet the proximity to the center allows for effortless exploration of Noto’s attractions, shops and restaurants.

Several reviews highlight the convenience for travelers with cars, as the hotel provides ample private parking and is near major highways, making it an ideal base for exploring the wider region of eastern Sicily. Visitors also appreciate the nearby bus stop and train station which further enhances mobility.

The hotel’s setting on a hill provides a unique layout and scenic views and despite being slightly removed from the hustle and bustle, offers a comfortable and pleasant stay. Guests find the location not only perfect for visiting the historic parts of the city but also a good starting point to explore surrounding cities and beaches, all within a short drive.

Overall, the Grand Hotel Sofia’s well-thought-out location combines accessibility, tranquility and convenience, making it a favored choice for travelers keen on discovering Noto and its beautiful surroundings.

Breakfast

'Grand Hotel Sofia' has garnered a largely positive reputation for its breakfast offerings, praised for both variety and quality. Guests frequently describe the breakfast as excellent, rich and sumptuous, catering to a multitude of tastes. The spread includes a wide variety of sweet and savory options with many highlighting the delicious local Sicilian pastries, fresh fruit and freshly made orange juice. The buffet is mentioned as being well-stocked with both international and local products, which garners special praise for its blend of typical Sicilian treats and hearty continental choices.

The breakfast area itself also receives positive remarks, noted for its cleanliness, lively atmosphere and the attentive and courteous service of the staff. The inclusion of high-quality products, including fresh and local ingredients, further enhances the overall dining experience. Though a few reviews noted a previous reduction in quality with cold offerings and a predominance of sweets, the majority of feedback suggests that the hotel has rectified these issues, delivering a more balanced and satisfying breakfast experience.

Overall, the abundant and varied breakfast at 'Grand Hotel Sofia' consistently earns high marks from guests, making it a standout feature of their stay.

Dinner

The dinner experience at Grand Hotel Sofia consistently receives high praise from guests. Multiple reviews highlight the restaurant's excellent food with many describing their meals as very good or even superb. The restaurant service is frequently noted for its professionalism and efficiency with specific commendations for the Maitre and the Chef contributing to an outstanding dining experience. Guests also appreciated the romantic ambiance, making it an ideal spot for honeymoon stays and special occasions.

Despite the overwhelmingly positive feedback, a few guests mentioned that the food did not always meet their 4-star expectations and found the prices to be on the higher side. Some even reported that dishes could be disappointing with issues such as cold breaded fish and uninspiring desserts. Nevertheless, for most, the culinary delights and the quality of service outweighed these isolated criticisms. The consistent usage of terms such as superb, excellent and highly recommended reflects a strong recommendation to dine at the Grand Hotel Sofia.

Overall, the restaurant at Grand Hotel Sofia manages to deliver a memorable dining experience, particularly noted for its romantic setting and superb service, even though a small number of guests noted areas for improvement and the high cost of dining.

Rooms

The rooms at Grand Hotel Sofia are receiving high marks for their spaciousness and cleanliness, making them a notable highlight for guests. Visitors frequently praise the large, comfortable and well-maintained rooms, describing them as equipped with modern amenities and ample space. Many reviews mention the presence of balconies, large beds and updated furnishings that contribute to a comfortable stay. The bathrooms are reported to be clean and well-equipped, though some guests note they feel a bit outdated.

The hotel staff is often recognized for being polite and attentive, enhancing the overall experience. While some reviews mention that the walls are not soundproof and furniture appears slightly old in certain areas, the positive aspects of the rooms seem to outweigh these concerns. The modern facilities and clean, bright interiors contribute to the positive impressions left by visitors who appreciate the generous room sizes and the cozy, welcoming atmosphere.

Overall, the rooms at Grand Hotel Sofia are well-regarded for their cleanliness, comfort and substantial space, making them highly recommended for travelers who value a good mixture of modern amenities and hospitable service.

Beds

Grand Hotel Sofia boasts impressively large and comfortable beds with many guests describing them as huge, king-size and even the largest they've ever seen. The rooms themselves are spacious, further enhancing the comfort and overall positive experience. Many reviews highlight the comfortable mattresses with some specifically noting the double pillows adding to the restful sleep experience. Cleanliness is also frequently mentioned, both in terms of the beds and the rooms overall.

Although the majority of feedback focuses on the comfort and size of the beds, there are some mentions of less satisfactory experiences. A few guests pointed out issues with bed linens needing renewal and the occasional hard or uncomfortable bed. Additionally, some visitors noted that in the master bedrooms, there were instances where two single beds were joined together, which detracted from the experience of having a single, spacious bed.

Nonetheless, most reviews reflect a high level of satisfaction with the bed comfort and room cleanliness, making Grand Hotel Sofia a reliable choice for a restful night's sleep.

Cleanliness

The 'Grand Hotel Sofia' has garnered widespread praise for its exceptional cleanliness, which appears as a consistent highlight in guest reviews. Visitors frequently commend the spotless rooms and impeccable housekeeping with many describing them as extraordinarily clean and well-maintained. Both the bathrooms and common areas, including the hotel’s facilities, reflect a high standard of hygiene and tidiness.

Reviewers also appreciate the neat and organized spaces, noting that the hotel maintains its cleanliness consistently across all environments. Spacious, fresh rooms with regular cleaning routines are a pleasant advantage, providing a comfortable stay for guests. The cleaning staff's efficiency and attention to detail do not go unnoticed, ensuring a pristine experience for all.

While overwhelmingly positive comments about cleanliness dominate, there are minor mentions of areas for improvement, such as the pool area and hallway stairwells, which some felt were less attended to. Despite these isolated observations, the general consensus radiates satisfaction with the hotel’s cleanliness, contributing significantly to an overall enjoyable stay at the Grand Hotel Sofia.

Staff

Grand Hotel Sofia consistently receives praise for its exceptional staff, who are noted for their friendliness, helpfulness and professionalism. Guests frequently commend the team's extraordinary friendliness and their readiness to assist with a broad range of amenities, from toothbrushes to razors. The reception staff, in particular, are often highlighted for their patience and welcoming demeanor, making a remarkable first impression upon guests' arrivals.

Dining experiences are also enhanced by the pleasant and efficient restaurant staff who ensure cleanliness and cater attentively to guest needs. The overall organization and cleanliness of this well-managed 4-star establishment are often mentioned, reinforcing the hotel’s reputation for high standards and guest satisfaction.

While a few reviews mention areas for improvement regarding staff attentiveness and politeness, these are overshadowed by the substantial positive feedback. The courtesy and professionalism across different hotel roles, from receptionists to lifeguards, ensure a pleasant stay for visitors. Special mentions for individuals like receptionist Alessia and her colleague Lorenzo reflect the personal touch many team members bring to their roles.

Overall, the Grand Hotel Sofia’s staff contributes significantly to the hotel's welcoming atmosphere, making it an excellent choice for travelers seeking attentive and efficient service.

Wi-Fi

Grand Hotel Sofia offers free WiFi, which is appreciated by many guests for its strong connection and excellent coverage in some areas. However, experiences with the WiFi can be mixed. While some guests report very good speeds, others find the WiFi to be slow or not working in their rooms. The hotel's WiFi service seems reliable in certain parts of the establishment but can be weak or non-functional in others. Overall, while the free WiFi is a positive feature, there are varying levels of satisfaction with its performance throughout the hotel.

Spa

Grand Hotel Sofia's spa facilities receive high praise from guests for their exceptional quality and relaxing ambiance. The wellness center is often described as spectacular, featuring a fantastic range of amenities that are well worth a visit. Many guests have highlighted the excellence of the massages offered, which significantly enhance the overall spa experience.

However, potential visitors should be aware of a few drawbacks. Access to the spa requires privatization, costing €35 per person per hour, which some find to be an inappropriate expense. Additionally, certain spa suites and facilities may be closed and the need to request access to the spa can be inconvenient.

Despite these issues, guests generally find the spa area to be wonderful and relaxing. The privacy offered by the wellness center is particularly appreciated and the overall environment contributes to a very soothing experience. The spa's whirlpool bath, although lacking steps for access, adds to the luxurious feel of the facilities.

In summary, while the cost and access issues might pose a challenge, the high-quality treatments and serene atmosphere of Grand Hotel Sofia's spa make it a desirable feature for those looking to indulge in some relaxation and wellness during their stay.

Pool

At Grand Hotel Sofia, the pool area stands out as a notable feature of the hotel. Many guests have praised the pool for being large, clean and well-maintained, making it an enjoyable spot for relaxation. Families, in particular, remarked that their children had a great time swimming. The pool is often described as beautiful and pleasant with some guests even labeling it as fantastic due to its ample size and the convenience of bar service.

However, there are a few areas where guests noted room for improvement. Some found the route to the pool to be messy and were concerned about the lack of cleanliness and maintenance at times. A number of reviewers pointed out the absence of umbrellas and mentioned that the loungers were old and torn. Accessibility issues also arose with some guests suggesting they should be informed about the condition of the path to the pool.

Despite a few criticisms regarding pool management and maintenance, many guests still enjoyed their time by the pool, appreciating its size, comfort and overall atmosphere. If these minor issues are addressed, the pool at Grand Hotel Sofia has the potential to be a truly outstanding feature for all visitors.

Parking

The Grand Hotel Sofia in Noto is lauded for its excellent parking facilities. Amidst the challenges of finding hotels with parking in the area, this hotel offers an ample, secure and private parking lot, often mentioned as being abundant and spacious. Guests appreciate the convenience of parking right on the property with some noting the ease of having parking spaces available directly in front of the hotel.

The parking is not only ample but also free, which adds significant value for visitors. The facilities include a large, gated area ensuring security for parked vehicles. Despite occasional comments on limited parking during peak hours, the general consensus reveals satisfaction with the availability and security offered.

In summary, the Grand Hotel Sofia stands out with its free, ample and secure parking spaces, making it a highly practical choice for guests traveling by car.

Family

Grand Hotel Sofia has established itself as a popular destination for families, providing a welcoming environment for both adults and children. Guests frequently highlight the family-friendly atmosphere and the attentive, accommodating staff. The hotel offers spacious family rooms, enhancing the comfort for those traveling with children. Visitors often enjoy a breakfast service that is not only excellent but also designed to cater to younger guests, evident from the breakfast room typically bustling with families. While there are a few comments noting the absence of a small room or annex and some cold plates served, the overall impression is that Grand Hotel Sofia is a commendable choice for family stays.

4 Star

Grand Hotel Sofia receives mixed evaluations regarding its four-star rating with some guests finding it consistent with the standard while others believe it falls short. Positively, many reviews confirm the hotel as a four-star establishment offering good value for its pricing. Cleaning services at the hotel are frequently compliant with four-star expectations, contributing to a generally satisfactory experience.

However, guests have pointed out various areas needing improvement to align with the four-star rating better. The hotel has been noted for having outdated furniture and facilities and some guests feel the rooms require renovation to meet contemporary four-star standards. The spa area also has room for improvement, especially regarding cleanliness.

Service-wise, there are mentions of slow service and inadequate pool management, suggesting a need for enhanced efficiency and organization. Furthermore, some guests feel that the dishes served don't quite meet the expected culinary standards of a four-star hotel.

Overall, while the Grand Hotel Sofia holds potential and meets certain four-star criteria, especially in terms of value and cleanliness, guests recommend updates and improvements to fully realize its four-star rating.

Business

Grand Hotel Sofia is highly recommended for business travelers due to its comprehensive range of facilities and services. The hotel offers a business-friendly environment with all the necessary amenities, including a meeting room, ensuring an ideal setting for business stays and trips. Guests have praised the extremely accommodating staff and noted the hotel's excellent service. The central location further enhances its appeal for business purposes. Additionally, a coffee machine is available, adding convenience for busy professionals. Overall, it stands out as an excellent choice for business stays, providing everything needed for a comfortable and productive visit.

Accessible

The Grand Hotel Sofia is consistently praised for its accessibility, making it an ideal choice for guests with disabilities. The property is described as fully accessible with spacious areas and facilities designed to meet accessibility needs. Guests commend the hotel for its wheelchair-friendly structure and easy access via elevators. The rooms are equipped with elements specifically catered to accessibility requirements, ensuring a comfortable stay. The staff is notably welcoming and helpful, going the extra mile to accommodate guests' needs. The hotel's prime location adds another layer of convenience for guests seeking an accessible stay. Overall, the Grand Hotel Sofia excels in providing a well-rounded, accessible experience.

Outdoor Pool

The outdoor pool at Grand Hotel Sofia stands out as a major highlight, providing guests with a good spot for relaxation. Many visitors have enjoyed spending time by the large and clean pool. However, there are some concerns about the management of the pool area, such as the availability of sunbeds and general maintenance. Despite these issues, the pool continues to be a valued feature for guests seeking relaxation in the hotel's external areas.

Honeymoon

Grand Hotel Sofia is highly praised for its suitability for honeymoons, offering a romantic atmosphere that many couples found ideal for their special getaway. The honeymoon suite is particularly noted for being spacious and well-maintained, adding to the overall experience of a romantic stay. Despite some feedback suggesting the honeymoon package could include more services and concerns about cost, the amenities provided, such as toothbrushes and razors, are highly recommendable. The friendly staff significantly enhances the stay, although some guests felt that the hotel could improve by inquiring more about their needs and experiences. Overall, Grand Hotel Sofia remains a favored choice for honeymooners seeking a memorable and romantic retreat.

Romantic

Grand Hotel Sofia exudes a romantic ambiance, making it an ideal destination for couples seeking a memorable stay. Guests frequently describe their experience as romantic, from the hotel's gracious reception to its serene, romantic setting. With beautiful balconies offering romantic views, it stands out as a perfect spot for honeymoons. Breakfast here also contributes to the charm, adding to the overall romantic experience. The hotel's location enhances its appeal, providing a lovely and romantic place for couples to enjoy their special moments.

Dog Friendly

Grand Hotel Sofia welcomes guests traveling with dogs, making it a suitable choice for pet owners. The hotel is regarded as pet-friendly and dog-friendly with facilities designed to accommodate guests with furry companions. Pets, specifically dogs, are accepted at the hotel, though it is important to note that there is a surcharge for bringing a pet. Guests describe the hotel as great for dogs, highlighting its friendliness towards four-legged visitors. While more detailed feedback regarding specific dog-friendly amenities is limited, the overall impression suggests a positive experience for pet owners staying at the hotel.

Yes, Grand Hotel Sofia has pool(s) that belong to one or more of the following categories: Outdoor Pool.

Yes, a spa is available at Grand Hotel Sofia.

Yes, Grand Hotel Sofia welcomes dogs.

Yes, parking facilities are available at Grand Hotel Sofia.

No, Grand Hotel Sofia doesn't have a gym.

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