As you head west, you leave behind the crowded strip of land on the Adriatic coast that includes the town of Fano, the railway and the motorway and you begin your climb into the foothills of the Apennines, in the direction of the monastic Eremo di Monte Giove (Monte Giove Hermitage). The narrow road has not risen by much before you turn onto the driveway, rising through wooded grounds to the foot of a brick staircase leading to the front door of Castello Montegiove. The property is not so much a 'castello' as a country house, or mansion and although imposing from the outside, thanks to the neo-gothic elements and castellations, its internal proportions are much more domestic and comfortable. Standing on the east terrace, which includes an oval-shaped swimming pool, the ground drops away, giving views across the town towards the sea. The windows in our room also looked in this direction, enhancing the sense of space and removal from the hustle and bustle of the coastal strip. The exceptional location of this property is complemented by respectful, friendly and informative service from all staff, all of them excellent. This is not an anonymous, corporate hotel, where your welcome depends on corporate policy on greeting guests. No, it is warm and personal. We immediately felt that are presence was appreciated. The non-corporate theme continued in the bedroom, furnished with pieces you might associate with a domestic setting. Yet, the comfortable canopied bed, en-suite bathroom, tv, internet, safe, all functioned efficiently. The included breakfast was generous, varied and delicious, with freshly made coffee to awaken the day served by again, excellent staff. You may be busily passing through the area, have business in Fano, or perhaps you're simply taking a break in the area to enjoy historical sights or the beach... Whatever brings you to the area, this haven of peace is the ideal jumping off point.

There was really nothing that we didn't like on this short visit. The only disappointment for anyone visiting the area without a car might be that the property is not easily accessible without one.

A small boutique style hotel in a restored castellated building occupying an elevated site with commanding views of Fano and the sea. very relaxed and friendly with charming staff. Nothing is too much trouble and lots of fabulous local knowledge on wine, culture including nearby towns like Urbino.

only slight gripe, the mattresses could be a little better doesn’t stop us returning year after year, the staff are like old friends

Beautiful property and comfortable rooms. Dining room was excellent, food and staff superb. This was just a stop-over but I would gladly have stayed another couple of days.

It’s on a small side road and signage is hard to see, GPS isn’t quite accurate. It is very close to the turn onto the side road and not as far as GPS suggests.

A very charming accommodation, a castle experience indeed. Very quiet and comfortable room, exquisite dinner and remarkable service with good wine suggestions and typical products. The breakfast was good, we could choose what we wanted to eat upfront and it was served at the table. Plenty of parking spots outside. Stunning views as the structure is uphill. We traveled with our dog and she was welcomed everywhere, restaurant and breakfast included. The hotel is close to the A14 highway and we chose it as a stopover in our journey.

Make sure to follow the directions using Google Maps. We were relying on our Audi MMI navigator and it could not find the route right away.

Exceptional treatment by staff, very personal approach and always helpful which makes you really feel welcome. Great breakfast with variety of local specialities. Restaurant experience was awesome. Great service, food and wine.

the service was the bed I have ever had, particularly Matteo and the female Andrea. the restaurant is exceptional and quite a value. The whole property is beautiful with bird song and the smells of honeysuckle and roses.

The bed wasn’t particularly comfortable.

Incredible location, super romantic and surrounded by greenery, from the swimming pool you can see the sea and then this castle where you stay I must admit that leaves you breathless when you arrive.

Nothing.

Hospitality was great! Breakfast was unexpected huge and tasteful: 4 sorts of homemade cakes, fresh made scrambled eggs, 2 sorts of cheese, salami, bread, jams, honey. Really great. The location is excellent, will come back in the summer to enjoy the garden, the infinity pool and the terrace.

Nothing!

Very friendly staff, great location and ideal restaurant and breakfast. Swimming pool area was great to hang out in the evening for a last cup before going to bed.

Amenities (slippers, laundry bag) could be added

A very dog friendly hotel, great grounds to be able to walk the dog. The staff were very thoughtful to our needs when travelling with a pet. Dinner was great with some awesome recommendations for local produce and wines. Breakfast was a really good spread. The two guys from dinner and the breakfast were great, very professional but also the right side of friendly. Will definitely stay again.