The Hotel San Carlo Borromeo looks from the outside as if it might once have been a monastary, and the impression persists when the interior is viewed. The building has been completely renovated in recent years, but the style is plain and quite austere. My room also had some of the air of a monk's habitation, albeit with an en-suite toilet. For a shower, you need to use a shared facility along the corridor.

The location is quiet, on a minor road just outside the town walls on the East side of the town. Unfortunately this is the opposite side of town from the railway station. I would allow about half an hour to walk to or from the station.

The breakfast is also quite austere, comprising a cup of coffee and a croissant with some jam.

However, in view of the very economical rate that I obtained in booking through Expedia (£24.00 per night) I am not inclined to complain. The hotel is well-run and spotlessly clean, and the staff are courteous. I would certainly recommend it to anyone who simply wants a decent place to sleep at night, rather than a palace of luxury.