Comfort Level

Comfort is a subjective concept, so in general we choose the European "star" system as a basic guideline. However, this system gives no indication of the feeling you get from a place, the way you are welcomed or what the views and surroundings are like. So we have given our own rating, taking into both the official category and our own feeling about the place into account.  

Accommodation has been chosen based on style, local character, location and charm. Quite a few places offer a swimming pool. 

In general the accommodation we have selected has private en-suite bathrooms and an official 3* rating for hotels, or the equivalent of 3* for “agriturismo” (farmhouses) or B&Bs. We also work with some 4* properties and, occasionally, a few 2* properties. On rare, justified occasions rooms may have shared bathrooms or accommodation is at hostels/mountain huts with dormitories – and this is clearly indicated in the individual information sheet for each trip.  

As an example, we will give a rating of "Comfort Level 3" to a place that has a great atmosphere, nice surroundings or a warm and friendly welcome, even if it is officially rated 2* because the rooms are simpler. 

 Simple accommodation, often with multiple rooms like huts, cottages or guesthouses. Sometimes with bunk beds and often with shared bathrooms. All camping trips fall into this category. 

 Simple to good inns, small family hotels, B&Bs and agriturismo (farmhouses), generally with private bathroom. Often chosen for its excellent location in relation to the itinerary. 

 Good hotels, inns, B&Bs, agriturismo (farmhouses) with en-suite private bathroom, often well-located and serving good meals. 

 Special hotels with excellent food, ambience and service. Accommodation with a special touch.

 Luxury hotel with excellent food, ambience and service.