Da Carlino

This hotel offers a memorable stay, largely due to its traditional restaurant which serves as a central hub for guests and locals alike, providing an authentic taste of local cuisine. Its prime location makes it an excellent base for sightseers eager to explore the town on foot and for motorcyclists seeking a convenient stopover in the Garfagnana region. Couples and families will find the accommodating staff and spacious rooms appealing, ensuring a comfortable and welcoming experience. The hotel's unique, long-standing character, often described as having a charming retro style, contributes to its distinct appeal. To enhance your visit, consider requesting a room away from the main street or any potential evening noise, and be sure to explore the highly praised dining options available on-site.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel features a prominent restaurant and pizzeria conveniently located on the ground floor, which is a significant draw for many guests. This large dining area is also noted for being suitable for hosting ceremonies and special events. An elevator is available, providing easy access to the upper floors. While Wi-Fi is generally offered, some guests reported connectivity issues in certain areas or specific rooms. The presence of a disco on the premises is mentioned, contributing to the hotel's lively atmosphere, particularly during special events like New Year's Eve celebrations. Overall, the facilities are functional, though some guests describe the general structure and decor as being somewhat dated.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Most guests find the rooms to be clean and spacious, offering ample room for relaxation. However, many reviews indicate that the room decor and furnishings are quite dated or have a distinct retro style, which may not appeal to all. A recurring concern is the lack of air conditioning in the rooms, leading to discomfort during warmer periods, with only a fan provided in some instances. The bathrooms receive mixed feedback, with some guests noting issues such as small showers, the absence of proper enclosures, clogged shower heads, or leaking taps. Noise can also be a problem, particularly from the main street, a nearby disco, or the kitchen, affecting sleep quality for some. Additionally, some rooms have been reported to have issues with humidity or stained walls.

Dining & Food Quality
The hotel's restaurant, Da Carlino, is a major highlight, consistently praised for its traditional local cuisine and generous portions. Many guests rave about specific dishes like the risotto cacio e pepe, homemade pasta, and various meat dishes, often describing the food as delicious and made with good quality ingredients. The restaurant is also noted for hosting ceremonies and special events like New Year's Eve dinners, offering diverse menus and a lively atmosphere. While most dining experiences are overwhelmingly positive, some guests found the food simple or the service occasionally chaotic. Breakfast receives mixed reviews; most find it good and abundant, but some note a limited selection, primarily sweet options, and a lack of variety, with some describing it as basic or modest.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel boasts a central location in Castelnuovo di Garfagnana, making it highly convenient for exploring the town on foot, with easy access to the historical center, shops, and restaurants. It is also easily reachable by car without navigating the town center. Parking is available nearby, often described as public but convenient for motorcyclists, with some guests noting it's free while others mention it's paid during certain hours. Views from some rooms offer scenic panoramas of the surrounding mountains and hills, adding to the appeal. The hotel's position is considered strategic for those wishing to explore the wider Garfagnana region.

Staff & Service
The staff consistently receives high praise for being friendly, gentle, professional, and highly available. Guests frequently highlight their helpfulness and attentiveness, creating a welcoming and family-like atmosphere. Many reviewers appreciate the staff's efforts to accommodate requests, including late arrivals and specific dietary needs. The owner is often mentioned for his unique personality and ability to make guests feel at ease. While most interactions are positive, a few guests noted occasional issues with staff promptness or a lack of English proficiency, but these are generally outweighed by the overwhelmingly positive feedback on their cordiality and efficiency, contributing significantly to a pleasant stay.

Additional Information
The hotel is noted for its pet-friendly policy, welcoming guests traveling with dogs. Its ambiance is often described as having an authentic 1970s style, which some guests find charming and others consider dated, contributing to a sense of stepping back in time. A unique aspect frequently mentioned is that the owner is a famous rally champion, adding a distinctive local touch and making the hotel a "cult place" for rally enthusiasts. Guests should be aware that some rooms might be affected by noise from a nearby disco or the main street, and check-in can occasionally be slow, with some guests reporting delays in finding their reservations.