Hotel Gutkowski
Ortigia, Siracusa, Sicily
Mediterranean blues meet modern minimalism at this great-value hotel in Ortigia, with its glorious views of the Ionian sea
Fishermen and craftsmen have admired the views from this pair of
powder-blue buildings on the seafront promenade in Ortigia since
the 18th century. Today, the houses have been joined together,
refurbished and refashioned into a 26-roomed seafront
hotel, but the star quality remains: that wonderful sea view.
Ortigia is the island heart of Siracusa in the southeast of Sicily.
The town is a UNESCO-listed world heritage site, thanks to its
impressive Greek and Roman ruins, and there is plenty to see,
architecturally and archaeologically. The surrounding area is
beautiful too, with fortified hilltop towns and some of Italy's
best beaches along the Ionian Sea.
We’d like to call the hotel a hidden gem, but it’s not
quite the truth - it has become a real word-of-mouth hit for its
laid-back charm, simple elegance and fantastic location. Sip fresh
orange juice on the rooftop terraces and bask in the sun to the
sound of the waves, then head to glorious beaches, or simply wander
the ancient alleys and twisting streets of Ortigia with a dripping
gelato in hand.
Reviewed by Michael Cullen
Last updated 27 April 2012
Highs
- Everything about it is great value, from the quietly chic rooms, to the minibar prices and wine list
- The location - throw back the shutters and taste that salty sea air! These are rooms with a serious view
- We liked the light design touches, the cheerful ambiance and the general warmth of this lovely small hotel
- Its relaxed charm and low prices make it ideal for flash-packers or those on a budget; there are a few triple rooms so it suits friends and families as well as couples
- Taking breakfast on the sun terraces is a delight, as is enjoying a sundowner glass of wine
Lows
- There is a small road right in front of the hotel so it can occasionally be noisy with cars and scooters (but only occasionally)
- The Cafe Gutkowski is currently closed for refurbishment but guests are invited to enjoy a fresh granita on the roofterrace
- Service can be quite relaxed - staff prefer to leave you to your own devices
- The minimal design makes the rooms a little sparse for some
- To get the best of this part of Sicily, and especially for exploring the beaches, you'll need a car
