We chose this hotel based on reviews and location as on the trip advisor app, but after making the reservation realised that it is some 2km away, far away from the centre of town. Also at least a 15min walk to the beach down a steep path not 5 mins as has been mentioned. Also reception - blunt and charmless. Room good, though oddly cramped bathroom with the sink in the shower.

This family hotel is a real found in Varna. My room was clean and comfortable with a nice view towards the Black sea. The service is very good. The owners do their best for the client. Excellent internet, taxi service, good breakfast. Just think, you can wake up and walk down to the beach within 5 min, take a dip in the sea or just walk through the Sea garden and get the taste of the best of the local atmosphere. Very recommended!

My girlfriend and I stayed at the Duchess for one night and we weren' t that impressed. Check-in was fine, room ok but clean. Shower was tiny and as a result the bathroom floor would get wet easily and there wasn't a lot of toilet paper. It's about 25-30 minute walk into the centre of Varna or 7 BGN by cab - on the way to the hotel, cabbie didn't seem to know where it was but maybe that was just him. The main downer though was the breakfast - no fresh juice (just orange cordial with soda water mixed in), not much choice but no coffee or tea on the breakfast sideboard and we weren't offered any either by the staff - disappointed!

Just in a few words:

Extremely nice, clean, modern but with a personal, familiar touch, cheap, very friendly stuff, all of them starting with the owner and his son and all other working in the reception, bar, etc. English speaking. Internet, bar, nice place outside. Good and quick answers by e-mail. Good location close to the see and 5 min by taxi to the "deep center" of Varna.

Just do not hesitate and make the reservation. I´m 46 years old from Sweden and I promise you that you wouldn´t regret it!