Villa Palazzola

We were there for a wedding, outstanding location and venue. Rooms are basic and some rooms do not have ensuite and have to share a bathroom, more like a hostile. The accommodation side of things need updating very run down. Staff are lovely and helpful, but I am sure there is room for improvement, but still loved it

I sit here in the dining room looking through an open French door at the green grass and hedges being coated in a fine Yorkshire rain and think of Palazzola. 48hrs ago we were living “La dolce vita”, 30 degree heat, shaded seats by overhead trees or canopies, life guard attended swimming pool, three meals a day and local red or white wine by the carafe full to enjoy. Our Lake View room didn’t disappoint with its rustic charm TV free design.
There’s a communal kitchen type room downstairs where you can make your own teas and coffees and if you want a drink in the room at night just borrow a glass or mug and fill it. The local tap water is fine to drink and there’s also a vending machine downstairs for other bits. There’s also the communal fridge so should you place newly acquired cakes in there don’t be surprised if some of them go walkies, this is a “caring is sharing” environment after all.
making your own bed may come as a shock to some people but this not a hotel, It's more like your home for a few days. The cleaners do turn up but they don't spot everything they are like the rest of us, human.
It’s a quiet place, generally, unless the venue above on the top of the cliff hosts a wedding or a party, however it’s always toned down or finished before the end of the evening.
A head space place it is, allowing thought and reflection to be enjoyed away from the pressures of modern life, and if that’s what you want, you get it.
Turn up, turn off the wi-fi and the mobile and return to you or to each other.
Romantic destination is not initially what comes to mind when you think of Palazzola, well I didn't, but when you consider the number of Weddings at this place, then maybe you should think again. Standing by the wall, high above the stunning waters of Lake Albano, on a beautiful clear evening with the one you love Is without doubt beyond price, because it is a unique moment within the eternity of time!
There’s a beautiful chapel in the place that facilitates the ability to return into another meaningful space, which is without doubt a world away.
We visited with friends and had such a wonderful time, however, one of the things I realised is that this place also offers a sanctuary for single people who just want an uncomplicated break. Ironically, it’ll be nigh on impossible to exist in isolation for long as the fraternal side of the place shows itself quite quickly and new associations are promptly established.
For those who can’t separate themselves from the world the wi-fi is quite excellent so lap tops, tablets and mobile phones work well.
The food is local, home cooked traditional Italian with no pretence of gastronomic celebrity chef indulgence, it is like what Mama used to make, or would be if Mama was Italian!
Don’t expect Pizza’s, Lasagne’s or frozen reheated stuff you can find that in the tourist spots nearer to Rome.
Eating is a communal affair, large refectory tables that everybody shares. And if that doesn’t encourage conversation then the combined efforts of cutting the morning bread and cajoling the catering conveyor toaster to produce it’s finest results will. It will also produce some carbon induced laughs and giggles along the way.
I would only add that should you go with friends, your significant other or may be even by yourself, you’ll return with priceless memories to cherish. Despite the newly acquired stresses of Ryanair travel, British road works and drizzly Yorkshire days I find myself now suitably equipped to survive!

Fantastic place nestled in the Alban hills of the Castelli Romani. Staff and the welcome are just wonderful.The kitchen is headed by Julie Garside with a staff of great home cooks. The terrace and views are astounding. This is not a 4 star corporate hotel but a rustic, warm, secluded haven. A home from home where you will leave feeling you should return as soon as possible. Nothing is too much trouble just ask Giuseppe or Filomena! If you haven’t visited do so as soon as you can!

This is a wonderful venue for a group when visiting Rome. The views are amazing across the lake, there is a pool and great local food. The team are really good and the service is excellent. Looking forward to returning and highly recommend.

Have just returned from my third stay at Palazzola and each stay is special. Wonderful staff, excellent food and beautiful surroundings. Definitely a place I would keep returning to and a wonderful place if you are looking for a relaxing and spiritual retreat. Look forward to returning again in the future.

I was lucky to stay here for five days with a group of Catholic researchers in the area of Catholic Education. We had a fantastic time in Villa Palazzola. It was an ideal location as we could easily travel to Rome via bus. The staff were extremely friendly and helpful. The food was top class and had a great range of GF meals. Thank you to all the staff of Villa Palazzola.

I stayed here in September 1997 with my parents and my young daughter. At the time it was still part of the English College and my uncle Fr Anthony Grimshaw was the manager at the time. Very beautiful location and after 12 days of pure relaxation I returned home to to meet my then/ now future wife. She will turn 50 next year and very much wants to visit Italy for her birthday. I would love to show her this beautiful place.
PS. I have a picture somewhere of my father diving into the pool from the stepped diving platform on the opposite end of the pool from the changing rooms. Taken sometime in the early Sixties around the time Anthony was ordained. Both sadly no longer with us, but always remembered fondly🙂

In some respects the Villa is basic but retains the charm of its history. Beautiful location with excellent meals. Rooms were clean and had the essentials. We loved staying here.

This place is stunning. You immediately begin to relax the second you pull up. The views from Palazzola are priceless. The building itself is breath taking. The food is so good and they accommodate any diet requests. The staff are extremely helpful and always cheerful. The Director and Assistant Director cannot do enough for you. I have been coming here for over 30 yrs and it still takes my breath away and is 1 of my most favourite places to stay in the world.

Extremely gluten free and lactose free friendly! You honestly don't need to compromise anything to enjoy this beautiful villa.

Amazing staff, delectable meals (3 courses) and breathtaking views /trails. Highly recommend it for time of reflection.

Relaxing, picturesque accommodation for business or leisurely gatherings - with good food and an incredible view of lake Albano!

Wonderful place, I stayed there many times and I will stay many more!

Best retreat from the bustle of Rome or any city

Thanks to Makr Holroyd - no longer a secret. Great place and worthy of contemplation.

The food was fantastic and the view is amazing.

Lovely Place with beautiful view of river..

Stunning beautiful location!! Highly recommend!!

Beautiful setting to relax and escape!

Wonderful, friendly hospitality!