Eremo Della Giubiliana
S. Italy: Sicily: Ragusa
Located just ten kilometers south of Ragusa, Eremo della Giubiliana, was originally a 12th century fortification, thus its position dominating the highland that gently slopes down to the sea. The convent, used by the Knights of Malta during the first half of the 15th century, has been restored maintaining as much of its original materials as possible. Rooms have been created from the friars' "cells" (i.e., the rooms are not large) and updated to offer modern conveniences. The two level "Great Suite", that can accommodate four persons, connects to Room 10, making it suitable for families. The "Tower Suite", located in the most ancient part of the Eremo, features two large rooms with vaulted ceilings and access to a private garden. The hotel has an excellent restaurant featuring authentic Mediterranean cuisine prepared from old family recipes. The wine cellar is located in a medieval vault. Other facilities include a beach located eight kilometers from the hotel, trekking on horseback (stables not on property) to other medieval sites, towns and the coast, and mountain biking. Well worth a visit in the area are the towns of Ragusa Ibla, Modica and Scicli, each with ancient centers and many buildings of great architectural interest.There is a private airfield on the property used for excursions to the North African Coast, the Aeolian Islands, etc. (For those wishing to keep a really close eye on their aircraft, there are now five individual cottages fully equipped with airplane parking at one's doorstep!) Air shuttle flights can be arranged from the private airfield to major airports in Sicily.

NOTE: There is NO ELEVATOR. This hotel is not suitable for clients that have problems with mobility. There are steps everywhere. The Eremo is more consistent with a four-star property with lots of charm but not all of the amenities (such as an elevator) expected in a five-star property.