Don't know why but I got it into my head this would be out in the country perched on some dam or other. Must be the Portuguese 'barragem' or something I was getting confused with.

Anyway, no sign of a dam. Not even a river. It was however conveniently and peacefully located outside the town of Pinerolo. There was a small water park opposite but we didn't have enough time to spare to justify spending the entry fee.

The hotel itself had enormous family rooms, free internet access, free car parking and, at the time we were there, free fresh plums from the trees lining the access road. result.

The breakfast buffet was err - sparse - no bain maries for the scrambled eggs so they would take it away and heat it up for you. Odd idea - why not just take an order and do your eggs to order? Scrambled, fried, whatever..?

There were free bikes available which you had to sign for and the kids enjoyed circling the hotel and grounds but I presume there were other more exciting signed rides but I didn't go looking for them.

Just outside the hotel there is a great value (for Italy) Pizza and pasta restaurant.

The old town of Pinerolo itself is quite a nice stroll if you have time on your hands.