Villa Magnolia Marina di Bibbona

We could barely use the Wi-Fi because there was no reception in the apartment. The front door handle was broken, and there were no locks. We called reception right away, and the maintenance man came quickly, but all he could show us was a cabin hook on the door. That’s the only lock there is. The walls are very thin. Each morning we woke to a screaming child, and we could hear chairs being moved and almost every conversation. The customer service was awful as well. My grandfather died, and I had to leave early to attend the funeral. Reception wouldn’t refund me, so I contacted Booking. Their service was quick and helpful: they said they’d handle it, and Residence Magnolia only had to sign a form for me to get my money back. Later I was told the property refused to sign. They offered a voucher for the following year, but only for a booking over 300 euros. At checkout, the man at reception showed no sympathy. He even told us Booking didn’t want to pay, when the property was the one refusing to cooperate. I understand there may be policies about refunds, but don’t lie about it. After this experience, I won’t be coming back to Residence Magnolia.

The main problem is the lack of service. We stayed a week and got no room cleaning, yet had to pay 40 euros for final cleaning. Reception is at a different hotel, and when we arrived we had to call to figure out how to check in. For two people, they provided one set of towels, no soap, and no bin liner, so bring everything yourself. For this level of service, I think the price should be much lower. There were some positives: the pool and surrounding area were clean, there weren’t many people, and the rooms were clean, though they need updating. There’s a microwave, induction hob, and capsule coffee machine, although ours didn’t work, plus a very small TV and fridge. Air conditioning costs 10 euros a day, and parking is on site. The sea is a 10-15 minute walk away, with a supermarket and various restaurants nearby. In the evening, music from the surrounding hotels is very audible.

We’re here for our second year. The apartment could use renovation, but it still has everything you need. The pool is large and well cared for, and the staff are friendly and helpful. It’s handy for the beach and close to Conad and other amenities. I’d recommend it for couples or families.

The residence is very close to Marina di Bibbona beach, a supermarket, and a couple of really good restaurants. There’s convenient indoor parking and a clean indoor pool, though residents don’t always follow the pool rules, especially the requirement to wear swimming caps. The rooms are generally clean and have basic appliances, including a microwave, coffee pod machine, and hairdryer. There are also two extra pillows and two double blankets if you need them.