Il Casale dei Conti

My rental car broke down, and I was lucky to be able to stay with the owner. The welcome was warm and friendly, and the place was high quality. I'm grateful for the help and would recommend staying here.

Casale dei Conti is a bright, beautiful, welcoming place. My room faced the lovely courtyard, where there are tables to sit and relax. It had everything I needed, including a laptop extension cord and reliable Wi-Fi. The bright bathroom was stocked with towels and personal care products, including shampoo and hand sanitizer, and there was a hairdryer too. I enjoyed breakfast, with plenty of choice and options for people with dietary needs. The owners are lovely and make you feel like family. The farmhouse is near the Conad supermarket, where you can pick up hot or tasty meals, and it's very close to the station. I highly recommend it.

I was told by phone that a double room for single use would cost €40 for one night. I explained that I might also take some photos inside the hotel of a future Miss Italy contestant in an elegant outfit, and the gentleman I spoke with kindly agreed. I then set off from Reggio Calabria. The owner said the room wouldn't be ready until 4:00 PM, which surprised me. When I arrived, I was sure the room was reserved as agreed, and the contestant was with me for the photos. At the entrance, a gentleman awkwardly demanded an extra €60, making the total €100, saying, “the use of the room is surcharged.” I was shocked by this unexpected and, to me, illicit demand for money, so I left. Before going, I apologized to the beauty queen, who was just as shocked by the incident.

Breakfast was a real letdown, with nothing authentic to eat, and the bathroom had neither quality toiletries nor paper towels. The room was clean and nicely furnished, but its refrigerator didn't work. The property is also beside a somewhat noisy road. I wouldn't recommend it.