Hotel Leone

Historic building turned hotel and restaurant in the centre of Montelparo. Acquired by english couple Madeleine and Tim in 2008, they have carefully restored the property to its former glory (they opened for business in 2012), whilst accommodating the whims of the modern traveller. The eight rooms are stylish and comfortable, and each has its own distinct flavour (though the accent is on dark wooden furniture with subtle accessories). A two bedroomed suite is perfect for families. In addition the restaurant serves a full a la carte menu with daily changing specials making the most of local ingredients. Outside you can chill by the pool after a busy day taking in the sights or you can relax on the terrace above and soak up the stunning views with a glass of something suitable. A charming village property with an emphasis on great service, which makes an ideal base for exploring the area.

Why do people love staying in your hotel?
A gem of a hotel - it is relaxed, luxurious, tranquil with nothing to fault and much to admire about the rooms, service, pool and restaurant!

Our boutique hotel is in a restored pre-16th century palazzo with 8 bedrooms and suites. It is small, intimate and unique and has been likened more to staying in our home than in a hotel. This we achieve by giving each and everyone of our guests as much (or as little) attention as they would like. We're situated within the historic centre of the small medieval hilltop town of Montelparo and it feels as if you're in a small haven away from it all and with all you need at your fingertips to make your stay truly memorable. We have a highly praised restaurant on site (trip advisor certificate of excellence) so after a day by the pool or visiting one of the many attractions, beaches or mountains there's no need to look any further for a drink from the bar on the panoramic terrace with views to the Adriatic coastline or an evening meal either under the stars in the courtyard or in the original brick built vaulted ceiling restaurant.

What is there to do in the area?
Le Marche is an area of outstanding beauty which the Italians describe as "all of Italy in one region" - a perfect description as the area combines a rich history and culture with breathtaking mountain ranges, rolling hills and blue-flag sandy beaches. Whether you want to visit one of the many museums and art galleries, castles and fortresses, churches, abbeys, theatres, explore the Sibillini or Monte Conero National Parks, try something a bit more energetic - horse riding, rock climbing, mountain biking, visit a olive oil factory and learn more about the local specialities or to go shopping at some of the numerous outlet stores - there really is something for everyone! We also host wine tasting events here at the hotel offering a chance to sample a selection of hand-picked wines from the area.

Our location is also perfect for walking. We are conveniently located near three Italian national parks and offer different options for guests wanting to explore these spectacular areas. We have short self guided routes directly from the hotel as well as longer self guided routes a short distance away. Also very popular is our one week "Treasures of Le Marche" guided walking holiday- showcasing the best routes and is an all inclusive, transport included holiday.

What kind of breakfast do you offer?
Our expansive breakfast buffet is complemented with fresh eggs cooked to order and freshly brewed teas and Illy coffees made to your exact liking. The buffet consists of different flavour juices, cereals, fresh breads, pastries and croissants (or cornetti in Italian) cooked daily in our wood burning pizza oven, ham, salami and cheese, yoghurt, jams and spreads and fresh fruit.

Do you offer other meals? And can you recommend good places to eat out locally?
We have a superb restaurant on site offering full a la carte dining as well as daily specials showcasing the best fresh local produce. An on-site restaurant is a big bonus for our guests as this means they don't have to worry about driving elsewhere in search of a meal and can simply relax and enjoy their evening. The restaurant is open daily for lunch and evening meals. During the summer months we offer a lighter lunch menu and in the afternoons a selection of speciality teas with scones, cream and jam. For the occasions when our guests may want to dine elsewhere we can certainly recommend other good restaurants nearby.

Which are your most popular room types, and why?
All our rooms are individually designed and each with its own individual style. Each has at least one unique feature, whether that's a balcony, a jacuzzi bath, a larger than average room, a larger than average super king size bed, stunning views across the rolling patchwork quilt countryside to the coast or to the mountains. So all are popular but those with their own balcony tend to be requested slightly more often. Of course all our rooms are spacious and well appointed with flat screen TV's, air-conditioning, mini bar, tea and coffee making facilities and high speed broadband WI-FI

What message would you like to give Hotel Guru readers?
Your holiday is as important to us as it is to you and we want to make sure you get the most out of it - whether that's discovering the many attractions and beautiful places Le Marche has to offer or simply to relax and unwind from the stresses of day to day life. The hotel is an oasis of tranquillity with every comfort taken care of and with breathtaking views of hilltop towns, sunflower fields and sunrise over the Adriatic and allows you to immerse yourself in this authentic part of Italy.