BB Aurora

The staff were really helpful, and the hotel was well maintained with a modern feel. Our triple room had loads of space, though being on the ground floor meant its window looked straight at a wall with no view. Breakfast could use a little more variety.

We had a pleasant stay, with friendly, helpful staff and great rooms and service. There was a good range at breakfast, too. Noto's centre is about a 10-minute walk away, and private parking is available on the property.

The morning receptionist was very nice, but my experience with the woman at reception later on left me feeling awful. Even though I'd paid in advance and arrived dressed nicely, she was extremely suspicious and rude. I believe it was racism at its worst. When I mentioned that my room had no tissues, she questioned whether that was true, then said she'd run out. After I waited a few hours, I asked if we could take a box from another room. She agreed, and followed me back to ask for the empty box, as though I might steal it. The rest of the stay was disappointing too. The rooms were extremely dark, the shower tiny, and breakfast inedible. The hotel is in a residential area outside the city. I'd picked it partly because I expected it to be quiet, but there was so much noise outside all night. I probably would have slept better in central Noto. I really don't understand the good reviews. It was the worst place I stayed during my 10 days in Sicily.

The location isn't especially pretty, and getting to Noto old town means being comfortable with a walk of at least 10 minutes. That gave us some hesitation about the fifth star. Still, the hotel was quiet, the rooms were comfortable and well laid out, and there was plenty of parking. Breakfast was good, and the reception staff were extremely helpful. Thanks, Anna, for lending us your own umbrella! The minibar prices were very reasonable, and there's a decent supermarket just around the corner.