Our first disappointment was the musty/chemical smell in the hallway leading to room. Once in the room, the plastic furniture reminded me of a Walmart special. The windows had thick burgundy duck cloth on them hiding a view of construction materials and laundry hanging outside. The room was clean, but very dark and dreary. The shower was so small I could barely fit in it and I am only a size 4. The bed was hard as a rock. The bedding was ugly and plain. I couldn't imagine spending three nights here.
We asked to be moved to another room and the hotel accommodated us. It was marginally better in that it was larger and didn't smell, but was still very dreary and the furniture was extremely outdated. The bed was not comfortable and the shower was very small. Towels were thin and small.
They claim to have 'foot massagers'...turns out they are old versions of the plug in devices sold in Brookstone 10 years ago.
Fortunately we had a marvelous travel agent that was able to get us a refund after only one night at Villa Aurea and we moved to the hotel Relais Borgo Scopeto in Sienna where we were VERY pleasantly surprised. That was truly a much better choice with a much friendlier staff and much nicer rooms. The food was much better, too. Views at the Relais Borgo Scopeto were amazing and the grounds were wonderful.
I would not recommend Villa Aurea at any price.
- Aurea Hotel Cortona
