Hotels near Campo Imperatore Observatory

The beautifully-renovated "Laura" flat of this extended hotel retains the charming medieval character of the fairy-tale village of Santo Steffano di Sessanio. It was meticulously clean, had a comfortable bed (with good pillows), a very nice bathroom, and a reliable Wi-Fi connection. The flat boasted a nicely-equipped kitchen with a multitude of continental breakfast items including local artisanal baked goods. Proprietor Claudia was the most gracious of hosts, getting us situated and even making us reservations in a wonderful nearby restaurant featuring many Abruzzan specialties. This is an ideal place to stay to experience the beauty, history, and outstanding hospitality of the mountains of Abruzzo. Our only regret was that we had not booked a longer stay.

This is a unique and wonderful hotel experience. Minimalist medievalism with 21st century creature comforts in formerly abandoned, now carefully conserved, medieval hilltop village setting. Our room was at the top of a tower. It was unbelievably beautiful and comfortable with underfloor heating, a very comfortable bed, a deep bath with unlimited hot water, quality fixtures and fittings (including a Babyliss hairdryer& blown glass Italian table lamps) and excellent wifi connectivity. The combination of a medieval aesthetic (rough textured, black stained walls; rough hewn timber floorboards, rafters, shutters and bathroom counters; small shuttered windows; a working stone fireplace, squat cream candles in wall niches) with ultra modern, streamlined white bathroom fixtures is enchanting, and soothing. The small windows have views over the lanes and open spaces of the town and the breathtaking valleys to the hills and mountains beyond. Lying in the huge hot bath with candles burning and the fire crackling and burning down to embers was pure bliss. The cantina (for breakfast and dinner) in a candlelit former wine/store cellar was warm and welcoming with excellently prepared, rustic fare using local produce and techiques. The staff were always friendly, helpful and welcoming. Go while your knees are still good and be prepared to carry your bags up flights of stairs.