For a Relais & Chateaux, we were not at all impressed. Sure the food is good, but I can find just as good in 50 restaurants in London for much less and in Italy better restaurants are in abundance. The sommelier missed on his wine recommendation. He most certainly prefers old wines even when you ask for something younger. Save... more

We've been staying at relais et chateaux for 20 years or so, and this is up with the best of them. Not easy to find, but well worth the effort. The food is superb - they rate among the top 100 tables in the world. The sommelier was the Best Italian Sommelier in Italy 2008 with a superb wine list.... more

Sole di Ranco is in a very quiet village and has stunning views over Lake Maggiore. Unfortunately the peace of the village is ruined by the barking dog next door to the hotel, which looking at the other reviews, has been barking for some time. The room was pleasant, though the decor is dated and there are various fittings that... more

We enjoyed our stay at Il Sole di Ranco very much. The location is lovely with fantastic lake views. Many family members are involved in the hotel and restaurant, and there is a high level of personal service and attention. The rooms are not huge but are charming nonetheless. The complimentary breakfast was plentiful: all types of pastries, croissants, breads,... more

This hotel is very attractive and in a beautiful location. We were only there one night as we often stay on Maggiore or Orta before flying out of Malpensa the next day. Much nicer than an airport hotel and more convenient than going in and out of Milan. The staff was extremely welcoming and attentive. We were given a very... more

What a find! I was searching for cooking classes in Italy but specifically on Lake Maggiore since we had never been there before. There weren't a lot of options. In October however, it is off season so two of the options I found, were not available that time of year. I happen to read a review in Conde Nast Traveler... more

I stayed at this hotel with my husband and 2 children for 2 nights. we had the surprise suite which was very spacious and nicely decorated. the sofabed for the children was one of high quality and large enough for two poeple. Often when you are travelling with children the extrabeds are extremely junky and uncomfortable. I didn´t eat the... more

Il Sole di Ranco has been in the ownership of the same family for 150 years and it shows, they've lost the plot! My wife and I stayed there for four nights in early July with two friends from New Zealand. This was their second visit; the first having been 10 years ago. They were looking forward eagerly to their... more

We just returned from a five week visit to Italy (our fifth in eight years), with a two night stay at Il Sole capping off our stay. On this trip we experienced everything from one to five star accomodations (based on the Italian rating system), and ate in everything from pizza joints to Michelin-rated establishments. Il Sole ranks among the... more