Locanda Francescana (ex Ostello Francescano)

A cozy, welcoming hostel in a historic building with a beautiful medieval character. I don't think you can get a budget accommodation that would be more central in the charming town of Valfabbrica. I loved the warmth, the whole building was well-heated - a much appreciated treat for someone traveling in mid November when the outside temperature dropped to just around 10 degrees Centigrade at night. The room, bathroom, corridors were all spotless. Another treat was the view from the room. The only small thing that could take a star off the service is that I couldn't find anyone to ask for a cup of coffee in the morning. But my booking was without a breakfast (possibly not being offered off the main season), and there was a bar open just around the corner, so I had no real issue getting my caffeine fix sorted with a short walk 😊. I'm gladly giving the service and the whole place full 5 stars - I got everything that I paid for; the staff were friendly and helpful, and it was overall a restful, enjoyable stay and I will gladly return if my path takes me back here some day. Grazie mille, dear people of Locanda Francescana.

After a change of ownership, this is now (eastern 2025) a purely commercial hostel and there are no common pilgrim activities. The rooms are of minor quality and the breakfast is poor: only dry biscuits and cake. The service was poor and unfriendly: apparently it was not possible to pay by card and no receipt was given after paying in cash! Despite the promise, no receipt was handed out the next day; another pilgrim was even asked to pay again, but the request was successfully rejected. It is also possible to book without dinner, but we were not told about this. The staff needs some training!

I was staying in Locanda and I had absolutely fabulous time! Everything was perfect, the rooms are nice and clean. I also had dinner and breakfast there and it was delicious!Manuela and Lorenzo who work there are amazing people. The location and also the price could not be better. I’m going to keep returning back