Hotel I Somaschi

Emanuela at breakfast, and Martina and Jessica at the front desk, made our trip extra special. The old monastery is very cool, and its location was great for our adventure through Piamonte. The beds were quite hard and tile. The shower had a tremendous amount of mold. Still, it was a very nice experience overall.

We could walk to restaurants, a bar, and small shops, so we didn't necessarily need the car. Parking was free right beside the hotel. The rooms were nice and comfortable, and the employees welcomed us warmly in several languages, at least It, Fr, and En. Breakfast is served in a pretty brick-vaulted basement. In summer, though, I'd have loved to eat out in the garden.

The food was very good in both the upstairs fine dining restaurant and the bistro, and good value for money. Service throughout was friendly and professional. The pool area is pleasant, with plenty of sunbeds and a cabaña, and it extends from the bistro terrace, so you can order a cocktail or appetizers without leaving your sunbed. It's a beautiful old monastery at the edge of Cherasco's old town, in a sleepy little town in the Barolo wine region. The building and grounds are stunning. I'd recommend staying here as a base for visiting Barolo and its wineries, or for a couple of days relaxing in the sun, by the pool, and over good food.

The renovated monastery is tastefully done and everything was clean. Everyone we met on staff was warm and friendly, and the back garden and cafe are beautiful. Breakfast in the basement was a bit sad, though. Better to eat at the cafe or take a short walk :)