Hotel Regina

I stayed four nights and felt comfortable the whole time. The new section is in a renovated old house, with rooms that are more like small apartments, including a kitchenette that saved me time on a business trip when I worked in the evenings. It was clean and comfortable, with a roomy bathroom. The only issue in my room was a squeaky bed spring. The new part isn't connected directly to the main hotel, but it's only a three-minute walk to the main building or parking lot. Breakfast was good by Italian standards: a small selection of cheese, ham, and salami, plus cakes, cookies, yogurt, and fruit. No granola bars, so bring one if that's what you like. But why is the orange juice at nearly every Italian hotel I've stayed at so ridiculously bad? It tastes like orange-flavored sugar water. The hotel itself is a little old, but still good. The service felt mixed to me, although everyone was friendly. Some were more like family or friends, others kept a polite distance. I can't comment on the restaurant food.

I've eaten here three times and have enjoyed it every time. The food is tasty and well prepared, and the attentive staff gave great wine recommendations for each course. I also tried their outside catering, which can be tricky to pull off, but they did it in style. They understand and speak English too.

It feels like a blissful place, especially because it's still not a touristy area. The setting is beautiful and historic, and the waiters were very attentive even though tourism isn't common at this time of year. This is what a real Italian experience feels like to me, away from the big cities like Turin, Rome, and Venice, with the real Italians.

I wish we'd had more time here. The staff were really kind, the room was warm and nice, and the beds were super soft. One of the most beautiful hotels I've ever stayed in. Bye for now, Pinerolo.