Hotel Gabbia D’Oro by Jamie Dunford Wood

The impression on entry to this former ‘private noble’s house’, the Gabbia D’Oro, is a pleasing one – ancient beams, exposed stone, and an array of well chosen and carefully collected objets and antiques liberally scattered about the public areas; a small orangerie courtyard of trees and potted plants, a delightful wood-panelled bar, a tucked-away library room and elegant and cosy sitting areas, with a variety of pleasing chairs and armchairs in an array of carefully chosen fabrics and patterns – more collectibles, highly personal, ‘not for sale’. That latter comment from the well brought up and sophisticated staff, along with the expensive brochures in Japanese, slightly gives the game away – this is a manufactured experience rather than a truly historic one, as the hotel has only been a hotel since the early 80s.

Still, the Gabbia D’Oro has the personal stamp of someone who is obviously dedicated, with a good eye and the desire to create a really special haven, and in this they have exceeded, even if at times the heavily draped, flowery rooms may be too feminine for some, claustrophobic even, verging almost on the Barbara Cartland. But if you come in opera season (and can afford it), you will have no trouble taking Tosca to bed with you, though silver salver service for breakfast might finally do you in.