Relais San Vigilio Al Castello

When looking at the hotel website and the idyllic setting, it is reasonable to expect that a luxurious experience will be enjoyed as a guest. Instead, we got a circus, and it was massively disappointing. Without prior notice to us, the hotel had booked out the entire first day of our 2-day stay with a birthday party for a giant group of screaming 6-year-olds, babies and their families. The green lawn, terrace, and balcony you see in the website photos was completely taken over by them, and the screaming and yelling went on all day and into the early evening. There was no possibility to sit on the terrace and enjoy a glass of wine or the view, or hold a conversation. When they finally served a limited-menu dinner, some of the same screaming, out of control kids staying at the hotel were allowed by their parents to run back and forth around our table. Never in a million years would we have expected the entire place would be rented out to host a kiddie birthday party and had we known we would have canceled-- obviously why they did not notify us in advance. The room and food were also a disaster. The very small Superior room had one window and no ventilation whatsoever-- after being instructed by the person who showed us to our room how to operate the A/C system and fan, it did not work. After a very stuffy and uncomfortable sleepless night on the hard-as-a-rock mattress, we asked the front desk what was wrong with the HVAC system. We were told a different story this time - that "the Italian government declares it to be illegal to use the system in May and June" (not even the circulating fan is allowed) and so it was disabled and the second night was just as bad as the first. When we opened the window to get some air into the hot room, the ENTIRE WINDOW CASEMENT gave away from the wall and nearly fell on us -- it could have been a terrible outcome had we not caught the window and frame as it fell and pushed it back into position-- and hoping it wouldn't crash later in the night on us in bed. The "cooked to order" breakfast mentioned by another reviewer is a half-hearted Hampton Inn-style affair, cooked at a particular time and left on the table. If you are not there at the exact moment to eat it, it just sits there on the table till stone cold. there is no wait staff or service. The very expensive evening meal was so poorly executed we left midway through it and went elsewhere for dinner. When we asked the waiter for some olive oil and balsamic for our bread, he said no, "just use the sauce in the bottom of your bowl". This is Italy, and no olive oil is allowed?? We paid full price for both the room and the meals, with no price accommodation offered by the hotel. I would never, ever recommend this extremely expensive and poorly managed hotel to anyone -- except perhaps to six-year olds. PS. Don't even get me started on the "cuckoo bird" that incessantly coo-coos non-stop at 5:45am every day right outside the window!

It is hard to imagine a more perfect small hotel. Simple but beautiful rooms with a gorgeous view; lovely garden; perfect fairy-tale location perched above the old city; warm, personal service; breakfast cooked to order; excellent restaurant down the street. Peaceful and comforting. Stay here; you won't be sorry.

Wow! Everything about this hotel is exceptionally wonderful. The most beautiful grounds, helpful and kind staff, special rooms and bathrooms (Villeroy Boch) fresh quality bed linen, unbelievable location, breath-taking views and the breakfasts are exquisite. First class, five stars and much gratitude.

An exceptional hotel, the all-round experience could not be faulted. All of the staff were incredible, they couldn’t have been more accommodating throughout our stay. Arriving late on the first night, having not eaten, we were presented with a great array of snacks to go with our drinks from the bar, the perfect welcome and it set the tone. Breakfast service was extremely efficient, great options, everything delicious. Late night drinks (local) by the roaring fire were a treat. It was a wrench to leave and we hope to return soon.

Beautiful - the hilltop location with perfectly manicured gardens and terraces couldn't be more enticing below the castle...and the old buildings have been stunningly converted and furnished with elegance and comfort. Breakfast was a feast fit for a Queen/King and the staff so attentive, helpful and kind in every way. I would love to return and would certainly commend the hotel for the discerning traveller's consideration - calming and tranquil.

Beautiful hotel, deserves 5 stars, breakfast is included and amazing. Easily accessible, you take bus 1 and the funicular train san vigilio. Beautiful views.

Truly boutique, calm, quiet and with a wonderful view At the top of the historical city of Bergamo, The hotel is 50 meters from the funicular to go down to the historical city between the castle walls. Around the hotel, you can safely walk or bike tour among the well-preserved county houses and incredibly beautiful forests. The employees are very friendly, helpful and professional. They even helped us pay the toll we had to pay via the website. Hotel rooms and bathrooms are above standard, large, clean, modern, Also rooms have underfloor heating We would like to thank the employees again for their help and work throughout our holiday. I'm sure there are other nice hotels in Bergomo, you will feel at home at Relais San vigilio Al Castello Tutku from Turkey

We are 4 old school chums, thoroughly enjoyed the hotel, staff were so helpful and friendly, breakfast was a treat, the main restaurant created the most delicious food. We are sad to leave after a super week's pampering. Outdoors had wonderful spaces to sit and view Bergamo below and Milan in the distance, plus the beautiful surrounding countryside and hills

This is a very nice hotel, with a wonderful staff, always friendly and helpful. Getting there and parking is a bit of a challenge (the hotel is on a hill above the town), maneuvering the narrow roads. The staff realizes this and volunteers to park the car for you. The location is above the old city of Bergamo and getting there is an easy tram ride away, with the tram located very close to the hotel. The hotel has a lovely outdoor area and a small bar. There is also a charming restaurant located a few doors away. The old town is well worth the visit and unlike so many areas, was relatively uncrowded so that touring was a pleasure. We stayed in a junior suite which was comfortable but short of luxurious. The style of the hotel is chic and contemporary. Breakfast is table service and to order. There is no elaborate breakfast spread. Dinner at the hotel restaurant was excellent with friendly service. We sat in a separate room where we could watch the chefs. Lots of fun.