Hotel Metropol

We were there during the last week of July, when the weather wasn't on our side. The owners were welcoming and the staff friendly. There was a generous buffet with lots of food to choose from. I'd recommend it.

The setting is hard to beat: there's a sea view from the rooms, and the terrace pool and whirlpool look out over the Romagna Riviera. The location is enviable too. After trying several places on the Riviera over the years, though, I found the food below what I expected. We stayed five days on full board after mid-August, and I can't give it more than two stars, despite the welcoming, smiling staff at reception and elsewhere. Our room was roomy but dated. The carpet bothered me, and the shower tray leaked on one side. The bathroom was cramped, had no window, and, more importantly, no fan. Cleanliness was good and breakfast had a complete buffet. The dining room buffet felt uninspired and not very varied. Some dishes were really good, others less so. The first courses often came lukewarm or cold, and I don't see why meals shouldn't be served hot regardless of when you arrive for lunch or dinner.

The welcome was warm, and the staff were friendly, helpful and always smiling. The hotel was clean and nice overall, and the rooms had modern fixtures. The food was fine, though nothing special. Breakfast upstairs on the top floor was poor: the cold cuts looked rusty, toast was replaced with plain ciabatta, and they didn't bring out more croissants when they ran out. The cappuccino didn't taste like coffee, and there were no bathroom or hand towels. The garage felt cramped, though thankfully nobody damaged our car. We won't come back.

We'd never stayed at Hotel Metropol before, but we'll definitely return. The room was always very clean, the food was exceptional, and the location right on the beach was a sure thing. Umbrella and lounge chairs were included, so the value for money was excellent. The staff and owners made the stay with their professionalism, courtesy, helpfulness and kindness. Thanks to them all.