Swadeshi Palace Ponte di Legno Resort

The location is a strong point: lovely views, walking distance to downtown, and right on the road toward the Tonale ski area. You can drive to Tonale, or walk about 20 minutes in regular boots to the “Cabinovia” on the other side of Ponte di Legno and take a gondola up the mountains. The place also has a children’s game room with ping-pong and a TV. They run a “kids club,” basically a staff member playing with and watching the children, which is handy for parents and likely fun for younger kids. I visited in December 2017. The hotel seemed quite old, and some of the facilities, including radiators, showers, pots, and pans, looked aged and weren’t in the best working order. You’re expected to bring your own sheets and towels, though you can rent them at reception. Rooms aren’t cleaned regularly unless you pay extra, and you have to take out your own trash. There’s an on-site restaurant, but you have to book a day ahead. There’s also a spa, a small bar, and a pool table, though I didn’t use any of those. Wi-Fi is only in the lobby, and even there the connection was very poor. If you book well ahead, can overlook the obvious shortcomings, or are on a budget, it can be a good option. It’s pet-friendly, so keep allergies in mind.

It was dirty, and the room wasn’t very spacious.

The staff are very nice, and it’s a nice hotel, but the apartments are tiny. There also isn’t enough room in the ski room for six pairs of boots and skis, and there are no boot dryers.

The hotel grounds were frozen over, and there was no salt or anything else down, so I couldn’t walk around safely. I’d booked two nights for 65 per night, then wanted to add one more. When we checked out, they charged more in total than the amount shown on the booking. How is that possible?