Relais Ducale
C. Italy: Umbria: Gubbio
One of the most historic hotels in the JDB Collection, the Relais Ducale is wonderful and inexpensive, a rare combination these days.

Located in a 13th century building attached to the Palazzo Ducale, the hotel was 10 years in the making. As the town of Gubbio is 1600 feet above sea level, its position affords spectacular views of the Umbrian countryside. The ancient stone and brick walls have been preserved and are incorporated in the design of many of the rooms.

There is a courtyard garden through which one can enter the hotel. When arriving with luggage, you must drive to the main square where a member of the hotel staff will meet you and assist with baggage. Each room is unique and has either tile or wood floors, sparkling white tile bathrooms, satellite television and mini-bar. There are connecting rooms for families as well as one very special top floor room (#402) with a private terrace, a great place for breakfast, a glass of spumante, or a honeymoon.

Lunch can be served to hotel guests in the garden or in the café through which one enters the hotel from the square. The hotel owner also owns the best restaurant in Gubbio, Taverna del Lupo, located in a series of connecting ground level buildings, each with its own fascinating history. There are unique ceramics in Gubbio as well as leather artisans who make high-quality leather bound items. Open year round.