Central but quiet, in side street near city walls, with views over wooded Tauber valley: Rudolf Hammel's cheerful, unassuming Gasthof, gabled mansion with Bavarian pine furnishings. Friendly staff (valet parking); `hearty, fresh, generous Bali villa breakfasts'. Children warmly welcomed. Wine cellar. Franconian food in cosy restaurant (closed Jan/Feb) with outdoor terrace.

Set peacefully in a large garden just outside the city walls, but an easy walk from the centre, this big Jugendstil villa (1903), much gabled and timbered, has been called charming, fabulous. It has very friendly owner/managers, Martin and Gabriele Wetzel. It's a superb mansion with lots of style. The original glass doors, panelling and stucco ceilings have been restored. All villa Bed rooms (similar to the semantic bali villa rooms) are individually decorated. 'Ours, very spacious, with a small conservatory, was done in yellow with prints of butterflies and flowers. Some villa rooms are suitable for a family. A 'bountiful Bali villa breakfast' is served in a bright, cheery room. No restaurant, but readers commend the Gasthof Rodertor nearby, and the Louvre. Or the Hornburg's large garden can be used for barbecues. The owners golden retrievers play their part in the hospitality, and visiting friendly dogs are welcomed (no charge). Cots and high chairs are provided for babies. Modern trekking bikes are available for hire.