Albergo Falterona

There’s an Alimentary right next door, handy for putting together sandwiches before another good day on the VdF. The breakfast was varied and really good, and the front desk staff were helpful. The hotel has a nice old-time feel.

Patricia made the stay especially memorable. She was warm and generous with recommendations, and even called around to help me find the hiking gear I needed. My room had a beautiful ceiling mural, too. The hotel is right in the center of Stia, spotlessly clean, and has that old-world charm alongside modern comforts. One of my favorite places I've stayed in Europe, and it's right on the Via di Francesco.

The location in Stia is lovely, with medieval buildings and mountains around, but the stay at Albergo Falterona was a huge letdown. My room was very small and missing basics for the price, with no tea, coffee, or water provided. There was no hot water for my entire stay either. Staff said they'd call a technician after I reported it, but nobody ever showed up. At checkout I raised the problems, and the receptionist got defensive and yelled instead of dealing with them professionally or showing any understanding. She also refused any reimbursement or compensation. The rooms, lack of basic amenities, and staff behavior made this a very disappointing stay. I wouldn't choose Albergo Falterona in Stia, as there are better options nearby.

The room was unbearably hot, like a sauna, and the air conditioning didn't work in August, when daytime temperatures were 40 degrees. Reception said there was nothing they could do when we called again. With the window open, mosquitoes got in, and street noise made it impossible to sleep. The internet failed every time I tried, and the bathroom hair dryer was broken too. The owner was arrogant and never apologized for any of it. We had paid on arrival. Never again.