Loft Next Castelvecchio

Hotel Description

You know, I stumbled upon Loft Next Castelvecchio almost by accident last summer when I was wandering around Verona’s San Zeno neighborhood – that charming, slightly off-the-beaten-path area just across the Adige River from the main tourist crush. It’s tucked away on this tiny alley called Vicoletto Cieco S. Giuseppe, which sounds way more mysterious than it is; honestly, it’s just a quiet side street off Corso Castelvecchio, super easy to miss if you’re not paying attention. I mean, I drove in from Milan and parking was a bit of a hassle – Verona’s old town isn’t exactly car-friendly, with all those restricted zones – but there’s a public lot nearby on Lungadige Cangrande that’s not too pricey, and from there it’s a quick five-minute walk. Pulling up to the place, it felt like stepping into one of those hidden gems you hear locals whispering about over aperitivo at a bar on Via Sottoriva. The building itself is this sleek, modern loft conversion right next to the ancient Castelvecchio bridge – you can actually hear the faint rush of the river if you crack a window at night, which is kind of soothing after a day of dodging crowds at the Arena.

What really won me over, though, was how the loft blends that industrial-chic vibe with genuine Italian warmth – think exposed brick walls that smell faintly of aged stone, mixed with plush linens that feel like they’ve been softened by a thousand sunny afternoons. My room (well, suite, really) had this massive open-plan setup with a kitchenette stocked with fresh espresso pods and those little biscotti you only find in Veneto markets – perfect for lazy mornings when you don’t want to venture out right away. The bathroom was a highlight too, with rain showers that actually have decent pressure (a rarity in some older Italian spots, you know?), and the air conditioning hummed quietly without that annoying rattle. It’s not huge, but the high ceilings make it feel expansive, and there’s this little balcony overlooking the alley where I sipped wine watching cyclists zip by – sort of like your own private perch in the city. Oh, and check-in was a breeze; the host, this friendly guy named Marco, met me at the door with keys and a quick rundown of nearby spots, like the Basilica di San Zeno just a stone’s throw away, where you can catch evening mass if that’s your thing. Noise-wise, it’s pretty peaceful after dark, though you might hear the occasional scooter in the morning – nothing a pair of earplugs can’t fix if you’re a light sleeper.

All in all, if you’re heading to Verona – especially during the opera season when the Arena gets packed – this place is a smart pick for feeling like a local without sacrificing comfort. It’s a solid 10 in my book for that perfect mix of location and laid-back luxury; you’re steps from crossing the Ponte Scaligero into the heart of town, yet far enough from the Juliet’s balcony hordes to breathe easy. Sure, the stairs up to the loft might be a workout if you’ve got heavy bags (no elevator, fair warning), but that’s part of the charm, right? I’d go back in a heartbeat – maybe next time in fall, when the fog rolls off the river and everything feels even more magical.

Reviews

• Sonia from Italy – 4 March 2025 (10/10)

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