Novecento Boutique Hotel

STEP ACROSS THE THRESHOLD, and the Novecento's charms grab you immediately. The hotel’s interior is inspired by the famous fin-de-siècle painter and fashionista Mariano Fortuny, whose style is overlaid on an eclectic mix of oriental furnishings.

There’s something very seductive about this sort of aesthetic. We loved the lush signature wallpapers and fabrics, polished wood floors, paintings and curiosities – many collected by the owners on visits to far-flung parts.

Each of Novecento Boutique Hotel's nine bedrooms is individually styled. In one there’s a nod to the mysterious East; another exudes the clubbyness of an Edwardian gentleman's lounge; one is distinctly Moorish and recreates your own little Kasbah, while another with a wrought iron four-poster, raw silk hangings, rag-rolling and rafters could easily take your fancy. Snug bathrooms come with sleek Philippe Starck fittings.

Thai with a Venetian twist

We took the Thai route… and slunk into a characterfully low wooden bed with fresh white linens, lit some candles and marvelled at our Venetian view. Atmospheric charm and affordable rates go hand in hand here.

Fine weather sees tables in the Novecento's sunny little courtyard laden with scrumptious breakfasts, while the Moroccan style sitting room offers day-long drinks. Regular art and sculpture exhibitions are held on site – an added buzz.

Staff go the extra mile here, and affable owner Giole Romanelli ensures guests are swept up in the magic of the place. Just check the visitor’s book to see the spell it casts.

© Room for Romance