Have stayed at this hotel every other year since 2001 whilst travelling between the UK and Italy, having discovered it by chance and falling in love with it - the location, charm, rooms, service and food were all excellent.
This year it seemed to have lost its charm, particularly in the service from the staff, which was distinctly chilly. They even refused to acknowledge that I had pre-paid for our room until I made a phone call to hotels.com so that they could speak directly to the receptionist and verify the fact. Even after that I didn't get a apology!
The setting and rooms are still wonderful, but I am not sure that I would return in future - a smile and helpfulness, in whatever language, cost nothing. Even the restaurant was disappointing this time - it felt as though we were on a conveyor belt from the kitchen.
I have recommended this hotel to friends in the past, but don't think I could now. Such a shame, but I would no longer feel comfortable going there.