Just a short drive from the pretty coastal town of Senagalia and half an hour from the port of Ancona this amazing hotel sits on the top of a hill with views of stunning scenery in every direction. We stayed twice for one night each time because we wanted to break the long journey to Greece for our dog (just outside the property through a gate directly from the grounds there are shady woods, perfect for walking her). Castello di Monterado is a real family business, the owners Orlando and Kira are friendly, helpful and very hands-on, always around for questions or advice and happy to help. Breakfast is great but the ROOMS, especially the suites, have to be seen to be believed. Our first stay was in Suite Athena, complete with a mosaic floor dating back to the time of Napoleon. Our second stay was in Suite Amorini, with incredible frescoes on the walls and paintings of Romelus and Remus on the ceilings. Staying in this hotel is how I imagine it would be to stay in a private stately home. Thank you Kira and Orlando for sharing and preserving your family’s legacy with your lucky guests.