Bed & Breakfast Il Giardino di Ballarò

LikedBeautifully appointed restoration property that was originally the stables to the neighbouring palazzo (conte federico, really worth a visit). Cleverly designed space and communal areas. The staff were lovely - super helpful and with great suggestions - especially Aurora who answers a lot of the emails. Breakfast was included and absolutely delicious. Options change daily but a wide variety and freshly cooked eggs to order as well. Beds were comfy with a foam pillow and an alternative. Location was great - in the Albergheria quarter - which was a short walk to most places you'd want to see. A great list of recommendations and a city map given to guests on arrival. Very easy to get to on public transport - direct train (our 13.90 for the two of us one way!) from Palermo airport in 45 mins takes to the nearby station Reale Orleans which is a 2 min walk to the B&B. I'd definitely come back again.

DislikedWe had a twin room, which was probably a bit more basic than majority of the bedrooms in the property (in my experience this is often the case with twin rooms, so not out of the ordinary). There was a bit of a drain smell in the bathroom from day two, but as we learned in the neighbouring palazzo tour, Palermo city was built up on a river and this district was originally water. As we walked around the city there were a few smelly drains so I just think it is part of the challenge with a historical building and area. The bell on the front door wasn't immediately obvious as being for Il Gardino (signed B&B Correnti) so we thought it was for something else on a higher floor. We arrived late at night and so were a bit concerned as the phones were not answered but one of the staff must have seen us in the door camera! I think Correnti is the name of the B&B owners, but it might be worthwhile changing the label so it is more obvious for guests. We were a bit panicked initially, but all was fine in the end!

LikedThe hotel itself is OK, follows today's trend.

DislikedThe breakfast was very simple. The neighborhood is dirty and scary. It is not at all in line with the niveau of the hotel.

LikedThe place is beautiful, and Aurora is an exceptional host. We had everything we need

DislikedEven though it is very well located - walking distance to all the important landmarks, on the opposite direction there is a kind of ugly place, and it felt a bit insecure, but nothing really happened so maybe it is just a wrong perception.

LikedSuper beautiful and really original.

DislikedNothing.

LikedSuper Friendly and serviceminded staff, beautiful hotel, easy access from station