Albergo Ristorante Alla Dama Bianca — Restaurant in undefined

The hotel is nicely located and had received high ratings by others, but we were very disappointed during our stay in the summer of 2006. Guests pay a respectable rate for their rooms with a simple breakfast that consists of coffee and a croissant: single - 70 Euros; double - 90 Euros. In addition, guests have to pay for the use of a canvas chair on the hotel-owned, private beach. The fee is 4 Euros per day (it doesn’t matter whether you use it for 10 hours or 10 minutes per day), but unfortunately one is not informed about this additional cost. In fact, the owner himself happily assists guests with the set-up of canvas chairs, encourages guests to use them when on the beach and one feels spoiled and relaxed! Until the final bill arrives – when it becomes clear that for each day, they charge an extra fee. Complaints are ignored and guests are asked to pay what is on the final bill. We were also not allowed to swim in the Adriatic Sea at all times, although we were located right on the beach. After 7.30 PM, access to the water is no longer allowed. The hotel has its own restaurant which serves a large variety of fish dishes. The meals are ok, but highly overpriced. The rooms are simple, each with a balcony overlooking the Adriatic Sea, but have thin walls and are above the restaurant. It isn't the perfect location for someone who is looking for a very quiet, romantic getaway. Overall, the hotel was very expensive, the service was unfriendly and the many rules became annoying. For someone who is looking to spend a few quiet days on the Adriatic Sea, the Alla Dama Bianca isn't the right place and they should look for...

POSITIVE NOTES: The e ocean-front property has an amazing view. The restaurant offers tasty seafood and a nice wine selection. The cocktail bar is very lovely in the evening lighting. We also had nice interaction with some of the staff, including the owners wife. They provided us with simple breakfast every morning. NEGATIVE NOTES: The rooms are very overpriced. They are outdated with thin walls, and come with meager amenities: the hair blow dryers are from the 1950s, the towels are thin and scratchy, shampoo and conditioner are not provided, there is not a mini fridge, water kettle or coffee maker (and they made a big fuss when we asked for hot water for tea) I would expect this for a budget hotel, but not at this price. The charge for double occupancy was outrageously high given – in fact the highest % increase I have seen in my travels – especially as there are no single beds, extra keys, or other features to warrant the additional cost. But most frustrating was the service. The owner and his son were aggressive, rude and overall disrespectful. This unprofessionalism would never be acceptable in other countries or in larger Italian cities where there are other options to stay. In my opinion, Dama Blanca has a monopoly on the sea-side location in an otherwise very small town, and therefore does not feel the need to upgrade their 6 rooms, or act with care to their customers. This is unfortunate as our family member will be attending the UWC school for two years, and we will have many occasions to come back to Duino. IN SUMMARY: I recommend dinner or lunch at the restaurant but would be wary of paying...

POSITIVE NOTES: The e ocean-front property has an amazing view. The restaurant offers tasty seafood and a nice wine selection. The cocktail bar is very lovely in the evening lighting. We also had nice interaction with some of the staff, including the owners wife. They provided us with simple breakfast every morning. NEGATIVE NOTES: The rooms are very overpriced. They are outdated with thin walls, and come with meager amenities: the hair blow dryers are from the 1950s, the towels are thin and scratchy, shampoo and conditioner are not provided, there is not a mini fridge, water kettle or coffee maker (and they made a big fuss when we asked for hot water for tea) I would expect this for a budget hotel, but not at this price. The charge for double occupancy was outrageously high given – in fact the highest % increase I have seen in my travels – especially as there are no single beds, extra keys, or other features to warrant the additional cost. But most frustrating was the service. The owner and his son were aggressive, rude and overall disrespectful. This unprofessionalism would never be acceptable in other countries or in larger Italian cities where there are other options to stay. In my opinion, Dama Blanca has a monopoly on the sea-side location in an otherwise very small town, and therefore does not feel the need to upgrade their 6 rooms, or act with care to their customers. This is unfortunate as our family member will be attending the UWC school for two years, and we will have many occasions to come back to Duino. IN SUMMARY: I recommend dinner or lunch at the restaurant but would be wary of paying...