Castello Girasole

Pasquale was one of the best parts of our stay. He became a friend and kept suggesting local restaurants, sights and places to visit, and even helped us buy local olive oil. The farmhouse is lovely, set in the Umbrian countryside close to Spoleto. Our spacious, welcoming room had a kitchen, a fridge and a lovely view of the bell tower. I liked the repurposed furnishings, like the old door used as a coat rack and the sewing machine made into a coffee table. The place was clean, and the help was excellent. I'd gladly come back, though maybe not in the middle of summer. It was hot, and there was no air conditioning. Since it's a period building, I understand that fitting it would take some time.

The location is lovely, but the management doesn't justify a five-star rating. We stayed for two nights, December 30 and 31, 2028, and the heating wasn't enough for winter. We slept in socks and used a hairdryer to warm the bed and bathroom. Breakfast, despite other reviews calling it varied and plentiful, was supermarket croissants and tarts with a packet of toast. There was no TV or other entertainment. The mini-apartment our friends used had no door between the kitchen and bedroom, so it was freezing inside while it was -2 degrees outside. I've read two reviews that were far too positive and untrue. The location deserves credit, but the outdoor lighting and directions, along with other things, need work.

Pasquale's hospitality was top-notch. He's extremely kind and helpful, and the B&B is in a great spot: an old castle surrounded by greenery, just a five-minute drive from Spoleto. My room was really an apartment, and it was beautiful and cozy. The price was excellent for what you get. Breakfast was average. I'll be back.

From the outside it has a simple, country feel, but inside everything is carefully looked after. Our room was spacious, comfortable, spotlessly clean and had a beautiful view. It also followed Covid regulations fully. Pasquale was friendly but discreet, and clearly proud of the place he and his partners had turned into a gem. The atmosphere was charming, the beds comfortable and breakfast plentiful.