Vale Resort

The food had loads of choice, and from what I could see they catered for different dietary needs. We also made use of the pool, sauna, steam room and two jacuzzis, though both jacuzzis were busy the whole time. Maybe we went at peak hours. There are several bars too, and a well-equipped gym for working off the drinks. Our room was huge, with a big bed and bathroom, and the mattress and pillows were really comfortable. A very pleasant stay with premium facilities. I'd come back.

The bar staff were nice enough, but the meal was dreadful, especially for £25. I ordered penne puttanesca and got pasta in tomato sauce with grilled chicken instead. There was barely any flavour, no noticeable spice, and I couldn't find the capers or olives. I've had spicier frosted cornflakes. It felt like the sort of bland, basic dish we'd make in high school home economics, with our parents pretending they liked it for tea. The kitchen could use some cookery lessons for Christmas.

The food was great and the service was good, but the room left me really disappointed. The curtains were grubby, and the outside door didn't seem secure. There was no cold water, so brushing my teeth with boiling water was unpleasant. The hairdryer only worked in certain positions. The air con didn't work at all, either. I turned it right up, then was told not to use 28 and to try 25 instead. I did, and it still didn't work. I stayed on a Thursday night, and although the food was nice, it's too far to travel just for that. I won't stay there again.

The chicken was so good I'd happily eat it again in a heartbeat, and the restaurant staff were lovely. They even made us a special occasion plate. Our room was spacious and clean, and we really enjoyed the health suite. We absolutely loved our stay.