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Rifugio Ariel

Ragalna , Contrada Serra La Nave (Show on Map)

8.2

Very Good

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1 room2 guests 1 room, 2 guests

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Summary of reviewsRifugio Ariel, situated on the tranquil slopes of Mount Etna, offers a harmonious blend of peaceful seclusion and convenient access to outdoor adventures. Its prime location, surrounded by lush woods yet close to key access points like the Etna cable car, makes it an ideal base for nature enthusiasts and hikers eager to explore Sicily's iconic volcano. Despite its remote feel, the refuge remains well-connected, providing guests with the comfort of solitude alongside easy accessibility.

The refuge's hospitality is particularly noteworthy, with staff members such as Carmelo, Giancarlo, and Alfio praised for their warmth, friendliness, and dedication to guest satisfaction. This genuine care is reflected in the delightful dining experiences, where guests can savor hearty home-cooked Sicilian meals in a cozy mountain cabin setting. With generous portions and a varied menu catering to diverse tastes, the dinners are highly recommended despite slightly high prices, thanks to their quality and authentic flavors.

While breakfast receives mixed reviews due to its simplicity, many guests appreciate the tranquil ambiance and the tasty, though basic, options available. The comfortable rooms at Rifugio Ariel are clean and functional, offering a rustic charm that complements the natural surroundings. Though some rooms are small and situated in the basement, contributing to a darker atmosphere, the overall comfort levels are satisfactory, with many guests noting the beds contribute to restful nights.

Although cleanliness is identified as an area with room for improvement, overall the warm environment and essential amenities make for a pleasant stay. With additional focus on maintenance, such as more thorough cleaning routines, Rifugio Ariel could elevate its guests' experience further. In summary, Rifugio Ariel offers a memorable retreat combining adventure with homely comforts, largely driven by its prime location and outstanding hospitality.
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Categories

Dog Friendly Bed & Breakfast

Cheap Bed & Breakfast

Accessible Bed & Breakfast

Small Bed & Breakfast

Room Types

Room For 10 Adults with Private Bathroom With a mountain-view balcony, a private bathroom and free WiFi access.

Double Room This double room features a private bathroom and heating. The unit offers 1 bed.

Quadruple Room This quadruple room features a shared bathroom, and heating. The unit has 3 beds.

About Rifugio Ariel

License: 19087058B801290, IT087058B8K3TM6U7X

Guest Reviews

8.2

Very Good

Location

Nestled on the slopes of Mount Etna, Rifugio Ariel offers a serene escape for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike. Surrounded by lush forests and greenery, the location is a haven of tranquility and perfect for those looking to unwind. It's ideal for hiking, biking, or simply immersing in the silent beauty of nature. The refuge sits just steps away from key access points such as the Etna cable car and the main parking area, making it a prime base for excursions or a launchpad to explore the majestic volcano. Despite its quiet seclusion, guests find it well-connected and easily accessible, providing both solitude and convenience. The welcoming environment, coupled with simple yet comfortable accommodations, ensures a restful retreat. Complementing the scenic backdrop, the hosts add warmth with their hospitality, enhancing the overall experience. Whether it's an adventurous ascent or a peaceful retreat in nature, Rifugio Ariel offers the perfect blend of accessibility and seclusion on Sicily's iconic landmark.

Breakfast

Rifugio Ariel offers a breakfast experience that receives mixed reviews from guests. While some found the breakfast to be enjoyable and typical of Italian offerings, others felt there was room for improvement. The breakfast, available for a modest fee, includes items such as croissants and options to customize, though some guests noted the simplicity of the selection. Despite this, the overall taste and quality of the breakfast have been appreciated by several visitors, with comments highlighting its deliciousness. The peaceful woodland setting adds a serene backdrop to the morning meal, enhancing the overall dining experience. For those seeking a straightforward start to their day in the tranquility of the woods, Rifugio Ariel provides an option worth considering.

Dinner

Rifugio Ariel offers guests a delightful dining experience characterized by home-cooked flavors and a cozy mountain cabin atmosphere. The meals, crafted by the owners themselves, showcase a variety of local and Sicilian dishes that are both hearty and delicious. Guests appreciate the generous portions and the opportunity to enjoy a menu that combines simplicity with excellent taste. Dinner is particularly highlighted for its quality, with multiple courses available and a selection of local dishes that satisfy diverse palates.

While some guests find the dinner prices to be slightly high, many agree that the overall quality and affordability of the meals make them highly recommended. The on-site availability of food provides convenience, and the vast choice on the menu caters to different dietary preferences.

The exceptional hospitality and management further enhance the dining experience, with the friendly and helpful staff ensuring that guests feel welcome and accommodated even if dinner is needed later than usual. Rifugio Ariel's dining offerings, combined with its perfect location for Mount Etna excursions, create a memorable stay for travelers seeking both adventure and flavorful, comforting meals.

Rooms

Rifugio Ariel offers a cozy, rustic retreat nestled within the woods, ideal for those seeking a simple yet comfortable stay. The rooms are clean and serviceable, often featuring a private bathroom, albeit sometimes outside the bedroom. Despite their simplicity and somewhat sparse furnishings, they are functional, catering well to the essentials needed for a night in the refuge. Guests should expect the rooms to be on the smaller side, with some located in the basement, which can make them feel a bit dark and enclosed. The ambiance maintains a rustic charm that complements the refuge's natural setting. A comfortable bed awaits each guest, ensuring a good night's rest, though some may find the beds a little firm. The hospitality is warm and welcoming, enhancing the overall experience at this retreat. While the accommodations are basic, they maintain a level of comfort and warmth that suits the refuge's isolated location.

Beds

Rifugio Ariel offers guests a generally comfortable stay, with particularly positive feedback regarding room comfort. Many guests describe the beds as very comfortable, contributing to a good night's sleep. The rooms are noted for their simplicity and functionality, providing clean accommodations with hot water and heating. While some guests find the beds too soft or not as comfortable as they would prefer, the majority seem satisfied with the overall coziness of the space. In-room amenities include en-suite bathrooms and decent showers, enhancing the convenience and comfort of the stay.

Cleanliness

At Rifugio Ariel, guests can enjoy a warm and welcoming atmosphere, often highlighted by the friendly and accommodating hosts. However, the cleanliness of the rooms and bathrooms is an area that could use enhancement. While some visitors find the place and its rooms reasonably clean and comfortable for short stays, others point out areas needing more attention, citing dusty surfaces and occasional cobwebs. Instances of insects like spiders and small scorpions have been noted, suggesting a need for comprehensive cleaning procedures. It seems that a more rigorous daily cleaning routine could improve overall guest satisfaction. Despite these concerns, the hotel's serene environment is appreciated, offering a restful haven with essential amenities. Overall, with a bit more focus on cleanliness and maintenance, Rifugio Ariel could provide a more consistently pleasant experience for its guests.

Staff

Rifugio Ariel is lauded by guests for its exceptional staff, featuring a blend of warmth, kindness, and flexibility. Visitors repeatedly highlight the owner Carmelo as being not only a genius but also remarkably kind and always present to cater to every need. This level of attentiveness extends to the entire team, with Giancarlo and Alfio noted for their hospitality and charm. The staff's friendliness and helpful nature create a welcoming environment for all guests. Despite minor language barriers, the dedication of the staff ensures that guests feel well-taken care of at all times. Overall, the hospitality at Rifugio Ariel stands out, providing a simple yet heartwarming lodging experience characterized by genuine kindness and helpfulness from the hosts.

No, Rifugio Ariel doesn't have any pool.

No, a spa isn't available at Rifugio Ariel.

Yes, Rifugio Ariel welcomes dogs. For more information, read the answers to the Dog Friendly questionnaire

No, parking facilities aren't available at Rifugio Ariel.

No, Rifugio Ariel doesn't have a gym.

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