Casetta Don Carlino

The room was spacious, and so was the bathroom, though it was designed to accommodate disabled guests. The shower itself was tiny, with flimsy plastic doors that barely moved. Getting in and out took a ridiculous amount of effort. Water also kept cutting off, and it wasn’t for environmental reasons. We’d end up covered in soap and have to call the host to get it turned back on. Breakfast was a letdown. The room was pleasant, and the person looking after it was kind and modest, but there was very little to serve. The cake stands looked nice on the sideboard, but they were empty. There wasn’t even a slice of cake or a couple of biscuits. The table had packaged industrial biscuits and jam, but no bread or butter. We did have a few almonds from the grove and some white melon. On our last morning there weren’t any tea bags, just chamomile and herbal tea. Everything felt done on a shoestring, with no real effort to make guests feel welcome. The host was cold, unfriendly, verbally aggressive, and showed no empathy. I’ve traveled half the world and never felt so unwelcome. There wasn’t a smile or even a greeting. One evening, during a disagreement, he lost his temper, raised his voice, and threatened to throw us, our luggage, and our dog out onto the street. Nothing had even happened. I’ve never been so uncomfortable in a place like this. If our old dog hadn’t already been asleep, I would have left immediately. You can’t insult, humiliate, or threaten guests. This job requires knowing how to welcome people and wanting to do it. He made me feel like a nuisance. Book somewhere else if you don’t want your vacation ruined and to spend it furious.

For young people: I wouldn’t recommend it. Three friends and I, all over 20 and the same age, stayed for two nights after booking through a well-known online site. The rooms were spotless, but the listing didn’t match what we found. There was only a bed and bathroom in each room. The microwave, oven, stovetop, tables, and fridge were in a shared room. That surprise was minor compared with the service. We felt like we were being babysat by Mrs. Giuseppina, which we hadn’t asked for. Families and much older guests seemed free to do what they wanted, while we could barely open the fridge without asking permission or being watched the whole time. We were repeatedly told to hurry up, even just after starting to use it. We expected a calm, relaxing place from the online comments, but often felt uncomfortable and treated like children who couldn’t operate an electric oven or induction hobs. The owner was almost never around, except for a small party he held for his friends in front of the shared room. They used the common kitchen, and when we tried to use it at the same time, Mrs. Giuseppina rushed over and told us to make room for them. Paying guests being expected to give priority to outside visitors is absurd. She also had to step in and supervise everything. The owner should update the room description to make clear which facilities are shared, and say that using the kitchen requires a mandatory assistance service. Anyone considering a stay should only go with an adult over 30. Otherwise, get ready to be treated like babies with bottles and pacifiers.

The lavender scent is what I’ll remember most, along with how well everything was kept clean. In the heart of the Molise countryside, this little place was the highlight of our vacation, with peace and relaxation all around. It’s family-run, which gives it even more value, and the owner makes you feel at home. We were there this season, so the lovely B&B’s spectacular kitchen and living area were only available for breakfast, which was a shame. If I ever come back to Molise, I’d return just to enjoy the calm and hospitality at Casetta Don Carlino. Thanks again.

Our family stayed in the “Grano” room, which was roomy, comfortable, and immaculately clean. We loved stepping outside and seeing the lavender field, with its wonderful, heady scent. The farm makes pure lavender essential oil. Breakfast was generous: fresh croissants to fill as you like, seasonal fruit from the farm next door, juices, coffee, and other drinks on request. The cappuccino was especially good, and there was a big choice of teas and herbal teas. Everything was served at each table, with the anti-Covid rules clearly posted and followed. We appreciated how attentive the staff were to details. The owner was very kind and happy to answer all our questions. We felt looked after and satisfied, and will definitely return.