Ripa 2

The beach gets one of my two stars, and the food for adults gets the other. It was okay, though not as suited to children. The rest of the stay matched the negative reviews I had read. There was mess everywhere, and upkeep seemed nonexistent. The place felt more like a construction site than somewhere ready to welcome guests. When you're hosting people, things need to be in order. Asking guests on vacation to suggest improvements isn't our responsibility, and it felt like a way to avoid bad reviews. The owner should already know the property's condition. We were also asked to pay the full balance on arrival, which had never happened to me before. I would have rated it one star, but those two positives raised it to two. And the rooms are too small for a family of four and all their belongings.

The sea and the Gargano area are beautiful, but our weeklong family stay was a negative experience. We were two adults and two children, and the property was old and run-down, especially inside the rooms and bathrooms. Despite being described as family-friendly, it didn't feel that way. The pools had algae, sharp tiles along their edges, and water slides that stayed broken throughout our visit. The large slide was open only when Mr. Bruno said it was convenient, since it needed a power pump. Getting from the accommodation to the restaurant meant taking a shuttle. At busy times it was overcrowded, and we waited as long as 45 minutes. We raised all these issues with management, but they refused even a small refund. The full amount is due on arrival, apparently because otherwise nobody would pay. The meals tasted good but portions were limited, so I had to ask for more, even for the little ones. There was no pasta suitable for weaning, and the bottle-feeding area offered only baby food. For the prices, which are above the local average, I'd say this place suits couples with moderate expectations better.

The evening shows were a highlight, especially for adults. The entertainment team put on great performances, though the activities were less engaging for children. The staff in the dining room did a good job, even though most were young and hadn't been trained in restaurant work. The layout was inconvenient if you're with babies or strollers. Accommodation and a breakfast bar are in one area, with beach and pool access. The restaurant, other beach and pool areas, parking, and activities are elsewhere, and you need a shuttle to get there. Our room was small but comfortable, and Mrs. Carmela kept it very clean. The pools are meant for children, but they weren't cleaned well and had traces of mold. The children's menu had little variety; food quality was average and it was cooked adequately. The sea was a letdown too, somewhat murky and full of seaweed. The place isn't bad, but the price feels high for what's offered, and the quality-to-price ratio needs a rethink. On the bright side, we met some wonderful people we'll definitely keep in touch with.

The rooms are on the small side, but there's plenty for families to do. Kids can use the play area and pools with slides, while there are also soccer, beach volleyball, and paddle tennis courts, ping pong, and human foosball. Activities run on the beach in the morning and by the pool in the afternoon, with assigned umbrellas provided. A shuttle connects the different parts of the club and comes often. The restaurant is very good, and the waiters are friendly. The entertainment staff are talented, and the arena shows change each evening and keep adults interested too.