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Zash is an extraordinary jewel in terms of both food and service, and I wouldn't hesitate to recommend staying there; I'm already planning to return. Let me deep dive into this a little. My husband and I stayed there for ten days in June 2023 - longer than the average stay, but we were looking to check out of the world and relax. And this is exactly what Zash offers. The food is incredible, as you'd expect of a Michelin-starred restaurant. The menu offers three set meals of five to seven courses, but don't be put off: they are happy to let you mix and match between them, or simply pick fewer courses at an a la carte price. The service was impeccable, and the sommelier was extremely knowledgeable about wines: he was also smart in assessing budget requirements and matching that to your preferences. The complimentary breakfast was amazing, too: fresh pastries and savories every day, plus eggs, pancakes, etc. as requested, and the staff could not have been more thoughtful or attentive. Other reviewers mentioned the railway line near the hotel, and I was a bit alarmed when I read this having already booked, but I needn't have worried: it was more of a low rumble in the distance (I thought it was thunder at first) and the trains are very short so although frequent, it never lasted long. I wasn't once woken by trains at night or during my siesta, but those who are very light sleepers might want to invest in a ”white noise” phone app, though I don't think you'll need it. Our room (a garden room very close to the main building) was wonderful and clean, and I loved the glass box shower (though we didn't really need two separate ones!) The only negative was the bed. Although it was a king and beautifully clean, the mattress was a bit of a nightmare. Admittedly I'm used to a Tempurpedic memory foam mattress, but this was sprung and I felt every single spring. Didn't sleep well, and very painful when I got up in the morning, but those less sensitive probably won't mind. As for the overall look and feel of the place, you won't find more beautiful gardens, and the pool was gorgeous. The double sunbed sofas were very comfortable (I should have slept on them at night!) though I'd say they were just starting to look a bit tired and one or two had small rips. I suspect Zash is just recovering after the trauma of the Covid pandemic, so I'd cut it a little slack, but a bit of low-level investment is probably due by next season. Finally, the location. Zash is off the beaten track, and frankly in a rather poor area. I never felt this was a safety issue, but the amount of trash thrown by the roadside was shocking, and a bit smelly when you had the car windows down. And yes, you definitely need a car if you want to go anywhere - nothing is in walking distance, but there are plenty of taxis. As for day trips, I'd recommend Taormino (a mountain-top town half an hour's drive away) - though it's pretty touristy, it's definitely worth a trip. The second season of White Lot