Onshore Torquay

The rooms were very spacious, and we had a lovely ocean view. It's close to the beach and great for walking. The pools might be nice in summer, but it was too cold with them unheated. Unfortunately, the screaming parents and kids next door came through because the rooms weren't very soundproof.

Wyndham Resort was a major disappointment, with a run-down feel and a need for basic deep cleaning that didn't match the online photos. The room we booked, 250, had a musty, fishy smell. On arrival we found more signs it hadn't been cleaned, including stains and dirty tissues and hair under the bathroom vanity. When we reported it straight away, we were met with hostility and no apology. They implied we were to blame because we'd “used” the room. We were moved to room 105, a noisy ground-floor disabled room above the carpark ramp, despite paying for an upper-level ocean view. There was constant noise intrusion, questionable stains on the walls and curtains, unsafe wiring for the bedside lamps, and medical alert buttons in questionable locations. Our keys failed on Saturday, and staff implied we'd caused the deactivation by how we must have stored the cards. We spent as little time on the property as possible. At checkout, staff didn't even ask how our stay was. Avoid this resort if basic cleanliness and professional service matter to you.

The beach just across the road made it easy to enjoy the water without getting in the car, and the relaxed, mostly family atmosphere kept the place feeling calm. Our Studio apartment worked well for two, with a comfortable, practical room, and the site was very well presented. Reception was friendly and helpful throughout. There were a few space issues: not much room for luggage, and the bathroom sink area felt tight for two people’s toiletries. The bins were small for a longer stay, too. Underground parking was great when we got a spot, but it’s first-come, first-served, so we sometimes had to use the outside lot or the street. Meals were room-only, and since the main shopping centre is a little way off, a grab-and-go or catering option would be handy. The split system kept the room comfortable, though it was a bit noisy at night. We had a really enjoyable stay and would happily come back.

There’s a huge outdoor spa, and our room was bright, spacious, and lovely, with a great shower. The bed was comfortable, though I could feel softer patches where people have probably sat to watch TV. The underground parking felt secure, but there weren’t enough spaces, so we had to park outside.