Relais Fontevivo

The restaurant earns its 4.5 stars, by my way of scoring, since getting 5 is a tall order. And the food was wonderful. The Abbot and monks probably didn't eat as well as we did at dinner or breakfast. This monastery stay gave me a glimpse of monastic life. As I went to bed, I imagined the rituals and constant prayers, and felt I might have taken a little of that in. The monks could well disapprove of our comforts and lack of otherworldliness, though perhaps the most prayerful and abstinent among them were sent here to enjoy life's pleasures in return for praying on our behalf. Who knows? We're traveling through France, Switzerland, and Germany, and have stayed in all kinds of apartments and hotels. After this place, they all seem bland. It's simply wonderful, distinctive, and the kind of place we'll remember long after every ordinary hotel and apartment has faded from mind. Come for the quiet, relax, and eat really well. Say a short prayer that God lets you return and protects this fabulous hotel. I might even look for the Rosary Beads I put away years ago when I get home.

The restaurant was fantastic, with a lovely dinner and a good breakfast, and the rooms were comfortable, if not very large. The building has so much character, perhaps because it's a partly restored monastery and the former cells are now rooms. They were very helpful by email before we arrived, then gave us a warm welcome in person. Highly recommended.

We had the best meal of our week in Northern Italy here. The dining room and building were beautiful, and the service was superb. Highly recommended.

It's quiet in town, with little to do, though Parma is only 30 minutes away. The hotel itself is beautiful, built into an ancient abbey, and the restaurant is elegant with creative, delicious food. The rooms are simple, but there are plenty of picturesque, comfortable spots to lounge around the property. A lovely, extensive breakfast is included, and the room price is great value. I'll come back.