Run for many years as a hotel by the Barbaro family, this former medieval convent, founded by St Francis of Assisi in 1222, has long been popular with Guide readers. 'A great place: lots of style'; 'very romantic', are visitor comments. It stands above the busy coast road, but its cloisters, with lemon and kumquat trees, bougainvillaea and an ivy-clad well with goldfish and terrapins, are tranquil. The bedrooms 'may not be the height of modern comfort — heavy old beds and cold floor — but they have real architectural interest'. 'Our big room had a lovely painted ceiling (flowers and local scenes), huge balcony with tables, chairs and deckchairs, but we weren't keen on the plastic towel rails and miserable little soaps.' Public areas 'have character'. 'Staff are good humoured.' The buffet breakfast includes fresh fruit, eggs, cold meats. The panoramic restaurant serves 'local dishes, freshly cooked, with good local wines'. In summer you can dine à la carte across the road, on the terrace of the Torre Saracena, an old Moorish tower. Below it is the swimming pool, carved into rocks, with sunbathing spots and ladders down to the sea. When settling the bill, you must use cash for taxis and laundry.