Riva del Sole Resort & SPA

The resort is in a beautiful spot, and the surroundings are lovely. But we paid a lot and came away feeling we got very little for it. The place has real potential, though management needs to rethink the prices, improve service, and put guests first. Service was a big disappointment. Staff were around but often seemed uninterested in helping. At times, three people stood by the spa and pool reception while customers went without assistance. We also wished there had been a pool bar. The shop stayed closed for hours during the day, leaving us to buy water at the bar for 4 euros, about 16 times the usual store price. Other prices felt unreasonable too: 10 euros per hour for a washing machine, 9 euros for a basic egg and mayonnaise sandwich that wasn’t even proper, and 10 euros for a Greek salad with only a few olives and lettuce leaves. It could have been three times the size for that price. Extra sunbeds were outrageously expensive as well. Even bananas cost the same for two there as two kilos in a regular shop. We had to buy our own broom and mop to stay in the house for two weeks, and the resort shop charged unreasonable prices for those, too. The welcome also could have been better. A small drink on arrival would have set a nicer tone.

I had never heard of the hotel or area before, but now I’m a fan and will definitely come back. The mix of facilities, pine forest, private beach, nearby town with its great vibe, and spa service makes it a lovely choice for a family holiday or a quiet break as a couple. I’d recommend it for solo or family travel, too.

The ocean view is unreal, and all the food is delicious. Everything feels so comfortable and beautiful, and the people are lovely. They make it feel like home.

REVIEW ON THE SPA specifically I met Stefano three weeks ago, and since our session I haven’t had any back pain. I’ve had chronic pain constantly for a year, so this has been my longest stretch without it. It’s honestly shocking how well he understood what I needed, and it was the best massage of my life. Stefano’s idea of “liberare” is about freeing the blockages you feel in your body, beyond just muscle tension. It was challenging, though. This isn’t simply a relaxing massage. With Stefano’s support, you have to be brave and face the blockages and pain you’ve almost let become part of your identity. I live in another country, but I’ll make sure to book sessions regularly. I can’t recommend it enough. It will be life changing.