I have stayed a couple of times at Villa Gruber, and it is my absolute first choice when i need to stay in the area, provided i can find a room! This is a residence that feels more like a bed and breakfast. It is extremely clean and its ten rooms come in different sizes. Try to secure one with a balcony to enjoy the view on the beautiful gardend the hrbour of Duino. The very best is number 10. Even the smaller ones though have a nice homey and authentic feel. There is parking space, and breakfast is good by italian standards, with rolls and jam, croissants, a small plate of ham, hard boiled eggs etc. We would have liked to be able to have it a little later than the 9 30 limits, but this is a small establishment which is run practically by one very nice and efficient lady, who speaks italian with a strong slovene accent. Villa Gruber is Not new but perfectly kept, and decorated with old furniture, books and prints on the walls, like an arty and welcoming private home. When staying there, you have the feeling that you are visiting your old austro hungarian aunty, which is in my view the best way to get into the spirit of the area. It is important to book in advanceas it is extremely popular with austrian couples that come down to triest to enjoy the sun, sea, seafood and wines, and the wonderful walks that abound all
around.