Hotel Relais Castrum Boccea

We booked this hotel as a post cruise chance to relax before heading back to the USA. This hotel is on the outskirts of Rome more in the countryside. We arrived very early on the day of check-in because we had to get off the ship. There were 5 of us. Upon arrival, the reception staff was extremely helpful, taking our luggage into the reception area and letting us know that he would try to get our rooms ready as soon as possible. We knew we early, but appreciated him trying to get us set up in our rooms earlier. He took us up to the breakfast area and we waited up there until our rooms were ready. This place is truly beautiful and peaceful. We researched it and found that it is a restored medieval castle and hamlet in Rome, Italy. The site dates back to the Middle Ages. That said however, I would just caution that there are no elevators and all of our rooms were up several flights of stairs. We did get some help with getting our luggage up to our room, but upon check out we had to drag them down several flights of stairs. Our group's ages ranged from 65 to 84 so it was a bit of a challenge with all of the stairs. Our room was beautiful, comfy mattress on the bed and a large bathroom with tub/shower. The hotel is about 30 minutes or so from certain attractions in Rome. The staff can arrange transportation to and from Rome for guests. We just wanted to enjoy the peace and quiet so did not take advantage. There are lots of little places/patio areas to tuck yourself into to read or draw. On our last afternoon at 5:00 p.m. we did some wine tasting out in the area by the fountain. The staff member on duty that day was great, helping us with the wine and bringing some snacks. We thought we were having lunch and dinner in the hotel restaurant on our first night, which was a Monday, and then learned that it was closed on Mondays. They redirected us to a restaurant down the hill a bit and that turned out to be just fine, although a bit of a walk up hill on the way back. Very quiet, good service and good food and wine. We had lunch and dinner in the hotel restaurant the next day and that was also very good. Overall, a great experience. I would just say that it's not a place for anyone with mobility issues.

This hotel is beautiful and quiet. The scenery and views are breathtaking. The front staff were very helpful. It’s a distance from the tourist areas but you can get to the tourist areas by taking a cab to the train. My only suggestion will be for the drivers to be able to communicate with the guests since they may be driving guests around frequently.

At 54 years old, I have organized many parties and I know how difficult it is for everything to go smoothly, almost impossible. For me, details, listening, and precision are fundamental, but in the past, I have always been disappointed by careless management. For my 25th wedding anniversary along with my son's Confirmation, I changed the venue for the umpteenth time, and it was a total success. Upon arrival, the welcome sign with our names – a classy detail I hadn't even requested – made it clear that the evening would be special. Surprise within a surprise, even in the hall we found the tables perfectly set with personalized menus, another unexpected touch. It was a continuous flow of attentiveness, kindness, and meticulous care. Martina, always available, coordinated everything perfectly; the food was out of this world, and the two waiters were super kind and efficient. For the first time, I already know where I will celebrate the next event: the venue offers so many different rooms that it will feel like a new place, but with the assurance of impeccable service.