Croce Di Malta  

Extensive refurbishment of three neighbouring 'palazzos' has given the Croce di Malta a new lease of life, renewing its grandeur. All the bedrooms have been decorated with rich brocades and soft carpets. They are air-conditioned and have satellite television, minibars and superb bathrooms. The numerous sitting rooms, bar and outdoor terrace are elegant and airy and furnished with comfortable chairs and sofas. Breakfast is a buffet and there is a good selection of dishes on the lunch and dinner menus which offer delicious meals at excellent value.

A wide variety of places - including Florence, Lucca, Pisa and Pistoia - can easily be visited by coach or train, so a stay at Montecatini does not necessarily require a car. Montecatini also has plenty to delight, particularly the splendid Parco delle Terme just around the corner from the hotel. The well-groomed park is an oasis of undulating lawns and ornamental trees and leads to one of Montecatini's spas, the Tettucio, a wonderful extravaganza in Roman style. The Tettucio is a splendid place to enjoy the exuberance of the Italians as they stroll and gossip, sip the mineral waters or a cappuccino in one of the elegant cafes, shop in the chic boutiques or listen to wonderful Puccini or Verdi arias. The health-giving properties of the spa waters seem to be just an excuse to enjoy la dolce vita!
Centrally located in the elegant spa town of Montecatini Terme, the Grand Hotel Croce di Malta was built in 1911, the era of grand hotels. To a number of the long-serving staff the hotel is their second home, so they are like old family retainers and the service is both smooth and efficient. Between the two wars the Croce di Malta was a famous high society hotel until requisition during World War II. Re-opening in the late '40s, the Croce di Malta again became renowned for its emigre clientele and for the actors and politicians who gathered there in the '50s and '60s. A famous Italian caricaturist (and regular guest) drew a wonderful mural depicting both the Croce di Malta's VIP guests and characters seen around town after the war, from the stationmaster to the Duke and Duchess of Windsor.

To enjoy some stunning views take the funicular railway up to the ancient fortified village of Montecatini Alto, with its quiet piazza, restaurants and Rocca (castle) from where you can take in sweeping views over mountainous countryside, known locally as 'little Switzerland'.

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