We've just returned from a vacation to Italy. Our last stop was in Siena, and we had heard good things about Arcobaleno. It exceeded our expectations!
To begin with, we drove from Rome. There was ample room to park our 9 passenger van. (group of six of us) We were greeted by one of the very friendly staff (Lucca) who welcomed us warmly and made our stay pleasant. Lucca was always ready with a smile and recommendations or directions. I think American travelers aren't always used to staying in smaller hotels, where guests are treated so royally. The Arcobaleno defintely puts a personal touch to things, which makes them stand out from the rest.
The rooms were spacious, clean and comfortable. Previous to arriving in Siena, we had stayed in Venice, Florence and Rome. We found the hotel to be quiet and restful. In fact, it was the first night we had without waking up to screaming sirens or late night parties breaking up. The beds are very comfortable! The spreads and drapes are beautiful and top quality fabric. The bed even had a nice woolen blanket on it, should we need it on the cool nights. Plenty of towels in the bathroom. Also there was a hairdryer. The bathroom outlet had a built in adapter for 220 to 110 conversion. Very nice touch. Handy for curling iron or recharging digital cameras.
The continental breakfast was very nice. Freshly baked pastries, hot coffee or cappucino made to order, cereal, juice, etc.
Per Lucca's recommendation, we did have dinner in the hotel restaurant one night. It was served in the restaurant downstairs- which has a great Tuscan look to it and friendly atmosphere. Most of our group had the house specialty, which was a delicious pasta dish. It comes delivered to the table, its outer foil aflame! I only wish I had the recipe to make it back home!! Everyone's meal was delicious, reasonable in price, and the service reflected their outstanding attitude to customer care.
We thoroughly enjoyed the meal from the wine and appetizers through dessert. Each dish was prepared with authentic recipes, well-presented, and flavorful.
I should also mention that there is free internet available to the hotel guests. Very handy for keeping in touch with family and work.
Although the weather was not conducive to sitting on their terrace, I imagine it would be quite nice in spring or summer.
I regret we only stayed two nights at the Arcobaleno. We would have loved to have a few more days there. We would definitely recommend this hotel! And we hope to return to Siena soon. It is a great place to see and to use as home base, taking day trips to smaller Tuscan villages.
Thanks to the wonderful staff at Arcobaleno, our 12 day Italy adventure ended on a high note. Kudos!
Tim & Mary McDonough









