Ramada Resort by Wyndham Phillip Island

We’d stay here again. Our three-bedroom villa was at the far end of the resort, which meant it was quiet and had a hilltop view just outside. We booked at a discounted price through booking.com. There was plenty of kitchen equipment and a generous supply of towels and linens. The fridge was old but worked, though the villa itself felt dated and could use a good refurb. Check-in and checkout were easy. The cot wasn’t what we expected, though. Its mattress was flat, worn down and dirty, and I wouldn’t let my child sleep on it.

We only had two nights and wished we could’ve stayed longer. The room was spotless and in great condition, and the bath amenities felt luxurious. The location is central to everything, with wildlife all around. The kids loved spotting birds, bunnies and possums. We didn’t get time for the pool or gym because there was so much else to do on Phillip Island, but they looked great from outside. We’re looking forward to coming back.

The best part for me was the Australian bush setting and all the wildlife right at the door. The landscaping deserves five stars. I’d come back if the cleaning improved and the villas got a major refurb. Our three-bedroom cabin was the dirtiest place I’ve ever stayed. The sheets had hairs on them, the towels smelled, and the kitchen had stained plates, cutlery and glasses, plus ants everywhere. Walking barefoot left the soles of my feet black from the wooden floors. The cabin was run down, with rotting doors and very stained curtains, and it looked nothing like the room pictures on the website. I don’t know how it got a four-star rating. It’s a fancier version of a caravan park, with good facilities and an okay location and service once you get past them trying to sign you up for a timeshare. They seem more interested in that than in customer service.

Our room was comfortable and well maintained, which we appreciated, but the service fell short. Staff weren’t especially helpful when we had questions or needed assistance. After checkout we realized we’d lost some things and contacted the hotel three times. Each time they said they’d check, but nobody followed up or resolved it. In the end, we didn’t get our belongings back.