Albergo Del Sole Al Pantheon by Jamie Dunford Wood

Recently written up by Herbert Ypma, this modest looking Inn claims to be one of the oldest in Rome, with records of travelers staying here as early as 1467. It is certainly the only hotel in what must be one of the most romantic and historic spots in the world, directly facing the magnificent and awe-inspiring 1850 year old Pantheon. For that alone it must be worth booking a room here.

With just 12 rooms, recently done up in tasteful Roman style, it is also low key and discreet. Floors in the rooms are cool and tiled, fabrics are understated, walls are pale, so that all one’s attention can be on the classic antique furnishings (including the beds), the high painted coffered ceilings (in many of the rooms) , and of course the matchless view outside. But three ‘words of warning’: only four rooms have full-on views, and unless you book these you are paying a high price for a simple if tasteful and well located hostelry. Second, these rooms can be noisy, even with the windows closed – however, to get the full effect of old Rome at night, you really need to embrace the street life and go to bed early in the morning. And last, on our visit the under-staffed reception – a single man reading a paper and smoking a cigarette – was unbelievably unhelpful and mono-syllabic. Perhaps it was an off day. Reports welcome please.