Residence Galati

What stood out most for me was how quiet and peaceful it felt, almost as if we had the place to ourselves even though we didn't. The residence is set in green hills about 200 meters above sea level, and during the hot week around August 15, 2021, the temperature stayed quite bearable, especially at night. We only needed the air conditioning for a few daytime hours, and our apartment had three units. The apartment was spacious and had the essentials, plus a spectacular sea-view terrace. Cleanliness was good, and the staff were excellent, friendly, and quick to handle small issues. The large pool had plenty of loungers and umbrellas. There was also a laundry room with a washing machine near the pool, which wasn't mentioned in the description and was a nice surprise. I spent several hours playing ping pong with my children, and using the table was free. The nearest beach, in San Gregorio, is about a ten-minute drive away. Even on August 15 it wasn't crowded, the sea was very clean, there were free showers, and parking was mostly free. Two downsides: electricity is billed separately by the kilowatt used, and the road up to the residence could use a little maintenance.

We only found out on arrival that the pool couldn't be used. The place is remote and unmarked, about 30 minutes from anywhere with life, and the staff weren't very friendly or efficient. My apartment was dusty, with cobwebs, and there was a swarm of ants in the bathroom. I reported it and was told someone would come clean, but nobody did. It presents itself as very formal, yet the service didn't match that at all.

The house was sweltering and run-down, with a broken air conditioner, a broken bathroom window, and dangerously cracked glass in the very hot veranda. It's far from everything, and the sea is a half-hour drive away. The road climbs steeply up the mountainside, and even buying anything means driving 5 km. The presentation suggests there's a reception, but there isn't one, and check-in is 7 km away. Don't go.

We enjoyed the peaceful setting, surrounded by well-kept greenery, and the sea view was spectacular at every time of day. The house was spacious and furnished, and Mr. Galati was readily available if we needed anything. The pool was spotless, with loungers and umbrellas, and the staff kept it that way. There's also a children's playground and a fully working laundry room. We liked the residence enough to explore it and pick out the cottage for next year.