Vicolo Castello 1, Sinio, Italy | (251) 219-4428
A unique, nearly magical, atmosphere
An 800-year-old-castle with some original fixtures, structures, and even furnishings
Rooms have wood-beam ceilings, stone walls, and rich rugs
Restaurant serving excellent local cuisine
Good central location to travel to northern Italian sights and towns
Small lovely pool surrounded by manicured shrubbery
Fitness center with stone walls
Close to world-class wineries and Michelin restaurants
Breakfast included
Somewhat dark in some rooms and common areas (not surprising for a a medieval stone castle)
No children under 10 allowed (pro for some)
The Hotel Castello Di Sinio in the Province of Cuneo, Piedmont is a one-of-a-kind property. It's over 800 years old, and much of the building is original, which gives guests the feeling of having stepped back in time. Despite the impressive size of the castle, only 18 rooms are available. That allows the American expat owner, who also does all the cooking, to get to know her guests. Rooms are about what one would expect from a castle hotel, and have stone walls, rich rugs, and wood-beam ceilings. It is a high-end property, but likely worth the price, especially for those who are art, history, and wine enthusiasts.
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Scene
First-class time travel
This beautiful hotel is surrounded by lush, vibrant gardens and is away from major roads, so there is an air of privacy. While the architecture is of olden times (expect plenty of gorgeous stonework about), guests enjoy modern bathrooms, TV, and Wi-Fi. The restaurant serves consistently excellent food, with the truffle pasta being a guest favorite. Given the top-flight wineries and restaurants in the area, foodies and wine lovers are drawn here. There are plenty of nooks where couples can relax, whether it's a small out-of-the-way patio with lounge chairs, or cozy window seats for two. (Children under 10 are not allowed, so it's definitely targeted more toward couples than families.) There's no bar, though, so don't expect late-night carousing.
Location
Central to northern Italian highlights
In the Piedmont region of Italy, this hotel is surrounded by picturesque hillsides and medieval villages in the Barolo wine district. The town of Alba is 20 to 25 minutes away by car; the Italian Riviera is a little over an hour to the south. The closest airport is Milan, two hours by car. Renting a car at the airport is highly recommended, but the front desk is helpful in arranging for car service as well as sightseeing and winery tours.
Rooms
A variety of posh choices
The 18 rooms capture a feeling of medieval luxury -- a seeming oxymoron, but it's a concept this hotel has mastered. Antique furniture, canopies, exposed beams, chandeliers, rich rugs and drapes, and stone arches just may make guests feel like royalty. The rooms have fantastic views, whether facing the hills, the courtyard with fountains and flower garden, or the church clock tower.Though there are few rooms, it's worth asking for help deciding which one is best for you, since they vary in style and size. Some are darker than others. Others are more akin to suites than rooms, with couches and chairs. The loft suites are two levels, with a living room space upstairs. All have satellite TV, private baths with high-end toiletries, robes, mini-fridges stocked with drinks, coffee and tea facilities, and free Wi-Fi. The furnishings (the night tables especially) look so much like the ones in "Beauty and the Beast," one almost expects them to spring to life!
Features
Swimming, hiking, and fine dining
The pool area is surrounded by manicured shrubs and is a lovely hideout. The pool is not very large, though, more suited to dipping than laps. There is a tiny fitness center, with just a few machines, but they're adequate for getting a basic workout in. (The walls are stone even in the fitness area, which lends a wine-cellar effect to your exercise session.) A sauna is adjacent to the fitness center.Not surprisingly, hiking is a popular pastime with guests, as well as riding the available mountain bikes. Guests can also sign up for truffle hunts and cooking lessons. There is no smoking anywhere on premises. The one restaurant serves a hearty breakfast (by European standards: there are both hot and cold dishes that vary with the season) and a gourmet dinner that guests usually find excellent.
