Leon Bianco Hotel, San Gimignano

This hotel, facing the Plaza Cisterna, is exquisite. Even though the entire population of the area congregates on the plaza throughout the day and well into the evening, the rooms facing it are well insulated and shuttered from the noise and light. (If one chooses to drag oneself away from the cafes and wonderful wine!) The rooms are delightful and the architecture very interesting. It could be difficult to pull away from the breakfast terrace. Be prepared to squeeze through the town gate and navigate a couple of narrow lanes to get to the hotel, where you can only load and unload. Parking is available in lots outside the city walls, but the walk back to the hotel is pleasant. The family who run the hotel are delightful. Their limited English and our non-existent Italian did not impair "communications." I'd return tomorrow if and stay for a month, if I could.

With the record heat wave of 2003, we were pleasantly surprised by this wonderful hotel. Tha air conditioning actually worked! The roo was very spacious, clean and inviting. The breakfast served on their terrace was great. You couldn't ask for a better location. Our only regret was that we had just one night to stay. We highly reccomed this hotel. We can't wait to return!