Ascoli Piceno, Italy Hotel Rooms at the Independent

The Palazzo Mercanti was a pleasant surprise. Not only is it in a beautifully renovated medieval building of historic signficance right in the centre of town, the staff we met were all excellent, courteous, helpful and friendly.

We chose Il Sapore della Luna as the location for our wedding dinner as we were getting married in the village of Monteprandone. We could not have made a better choice. The property is truly lovely and sits on a hill overlooking Monteprandone. We felt so welcome and relaxed during our stay. From the special touches that the hotel staff unexpectedly added to our room - a heart made from rose petals on the bed, plus chocolates - to the outstanding and delicious feast that they prepared for our dinner, everything was carefully made and presented. They even provided a sound system so that we could connect our iPods and play our own music during our dinner. Everyone that we encountered from reception to wait staff to the chef were so friendly. Would love to return during summer and take advantage of the swimming pool and bicycles available on site. If you want a quiet, romantic escape in Italy, Il Sapore della Luna is the ideal place.

We were pleasantly surprised to find the kitchen fully equipped with all the appliances including a blender (!!!). Not that we even planned to use it in the beginning, but after our son refused to eat restaurant food, this turned out to be very useful! The hotel looked very new, everything was white and super clean, it almost felt as if no one stayed in our room ever before. We had a suit with a bedroom and a living room/kitchen, it was spacious and as I mentioned well equipped. The hotel has a nice spa area downstairs - again very clean and pleasant. There was also a playground and bike rental right on the premises. Underground parking was also very convenient.

Perfect place if you wish to visit San Benedetto del Tronto, friendly people and perfect location, about 5 minutes walk to the town centre. Highly recommended to everybody.

Our stay was wonderful here, with a fabulous room and just round the corner from the main palazzo. The owner was very accommodating especially with parking behind the hotel. Little touches like tea and coffee for the room were an extra bonus, along with the biggest room and bathroom we've ever stayed in! We will definitely stay here again on our return to Italy.

<staff went out of the way for me, and i truly recommend their hotel