"So glad we ignored the negative reviews for this hotel as we thoroughly enjoyed our stay here!
Pros:
The view. Worth 5 stars on its own from the rooms overlooking the bay of Naples and Mount Vesuvius.
The pool. Great size, never a problem finding a sun-bed, great views again.
Lunch. Lovely freshly made pizza, pasta, steak, calamari, sandwiches etc. reasonably priced, although could have more variety.
Staff. Never had a problem with anyone. All professional. Maybe others reviewers expect staff to ingratiate themselves towards them, hence some negative comments. Room cleaned every day to a good standard by friendly staff and a very useful mini fridge. Kept our wine and soft drinks cold, purchased at the great local shop with helpful proprietors always willing to advise on local food and drink.
Room. Good balcony, clean, comfortable beds with air-con. Dated maybe but in-keeping with the overall vibe.
Excursions. We used both hotel and jet2 excursions ( capri & Pompei) . Both very well organised and hassle free.
Locally. Couple of nice restaurants within walking distance serving good steaks and seafood. Marina a must visit, nice restaurants. Local pharmacy came in useful for my mosquito bites (they seem to like me the most and during the day!)
Links. 10 mins from train station to Sorrento, Napoli and in between. Bus link (although not used). Free mini bus from hotel to Sorrento daily 9:45- 14:30 book day in advance at reception.
Cons:
Food debate (evenings)? Hit and miss depending on your taste. Home cooked food, perhaps lacking the finesse of most restaurants with maybe one or two elements missing. For us this added to the charm of the place and we never left hungry. Probably more variety needed. Breakfast was repetitive. In contrast to some reviews we asked could we swap an evening meal for lunch ( on half board) as we wanted to try a local restaurant, but was told no. Fair enough as long as you know.
Links: We thought the walk to the marina and beach would be easier, however it’s a 25 mins walk without pavements and in 35C temps not ideal. Asked at the desk without much help, although we noticed a bus we could have taken. Taxi was €20 each way, ridiculous for such a short distance. Train can be busy and hot depending on the time. Some have stated the hotel will take you to the beach or Vico Equense but we were not offered this.
Entertainment. Nice singer every night. Needs guest performers to keep evenings entertaining less repetitive.
Weekends. The pool area can get quite busy with the locals having access to pool area but again we didn’t find it a problem getting sun beds.
Overall, we will definitely be returning to this hotel."
