Ok- I went here with my husband, best friend and her husband in Sept 2007 (that date wasn't an option so I can't choose that). I never got around to my review but got nostalgic and had to chime in my opinion when I saw some of these reviews!
The hotel is like a big bed and breakfast- old style but charming. The keys are even old fashioned! The views are amazing and breakfast was a simple spread but we all enjoyed it. It wasn't amazing but the view more than made up for it. Being so far made for an adventure getting back to the hotel one night when we got off the bus at the wrong stop on the unlit road! totally our fault- there are 2 stops that access the hotel- during the day it's fine but they close one gate at night. Location was the only reason I might only stay here a night or 2 if we make it back to Florence.
The owner did come across as curt but I think she just comes across that way. We spent some time petting the dogs and got to chat with her- talked about her trips to India on her holidays as my husband and best friend are from there, then talked about Spain as the other husband is from there! I don't remember if she had been to the US! I'm always the outsider! ;-) She warmed up a bit there but she's not a gushing person by any means. I think the fact that she's not WARM is making her seem MEAN, I wouldn't say that. I can imagine tourists get annoying! We found customer service in Italy as a whole lacking- she wasn't any better or worse than most!
The front desk did help up plan our few days there and they helped get us reservations as a very awesome and small restaurant. It was AMAZING food and we felt so lucky to get in. Our tour book said it booked fast. They were right.
The grounds are cool-they even have a HELIPAD!! Clearly showing some wear though but I actually liked that. The pool looked inviting anyway but we didn't go. We were encouraged to walk up to the owners personal house to take pictures - the statue in their pamplet pics is up there. I don't have a problem with their service at all- I prefered it to a sterile chain hotel any day- I can stay at the Holiday Inn at home. Unless standards have really fallen THAT much since we were there I say give Rondini a chance. We'd love to go back!! I was trying to get my friend to elope and have her wedding there!!
- Hotel Le Rondini
- Le Rondini Hotel
