il Barcaiolo In Taormina

21/10/2024: Second stay at Hotel Nettuno and the first after the renovation. The renovation freshens up the look of the hotel while fitting the overall calm flair of the hotel. Some places (like the basement toilets or the garage) were left out and now don't fit into the more modern and clean style. Sadly the renovation also did not include the hotels/rooms heating, ventilation and air conditioning, which lead to (subjectively) uncomfortably high temperatures in the corridors and rooms, due to the fact that the AC was already switched to "winter mode" despite warmer temperatures, so it could only heat the room further but not cool it down. The only way to cool down my room was opening a window, which helped only a bit and was nearly constantly open over my stay. Room temperatures still were between 21°C and 24°C, which was way too warm for me (as already mentioned on check out). The new color scheme make the rooms brighter, which is an improvement compared to last year. All was clean and functioning, though the bathroom of my room (211) seemingly did not receive the same care during the renovation as the rest of the room (forgot to mention on check out). Noise sensible persons should pack some earplugs for slamming room doors, due to the automatic door closers (mentioned on check out as well) or not as soundproof walls as can be expected in newer hotels. The staff is super friendly and helpful. The food in the restaurant improved compared to last year and was very good! Breakfast buffet is also very good, but a vegan milk option (e.g. oat milk) is missing (though I did not ask for it to be honest). The location of the hotel is perfect for those who like to visit Bardolino (10-20min to the center, depending on ability) or walk on the promenade of Lake Garda. Bike storage is possible in the garage, though there is no separate secured room to put them in.

16/10/2024: We went to the Nettuno hotel for a family dinner to celebrate a birthday. Gloria welcomed us with a smile and very thoughtfully, given the presence of an elderly lady, accompanied us to the table. Excellent dinner starting from the rich vegetable buffet, exquisite quiche and aubergine parmigiana. As an appetizer we were served a delicate flan with radicchio (excellent). The dinner was excellent, personally I was pleasantly surprised by the pork fillet. Special thanks to chef Cristian for the care and attention he puts into creating the dishes. We couldn't enjoy the view because it was evening, we plan to return soon to see the lake. Also worthy of applause are all the staff who made our Prima Rosa evening special with their professionalism and kindness