Hotel Villaggio Calaghena

The beach is lovely and spacious, with clean water, and the shuttle drivers were kind and punctual. But Villaggio Calaghena had a lot of problems. Hygiene was poor from the moment my family and I arrived, and the rooms were never properly cleaned during our stay. We often had to collect fresh towels and other items ourselves. When I moved furniture, I found dust and food left by the previous family. The entertainment was listed in the program but was practically nonexistent, with no organization and no adherence to the schedule. The pool bathrooms were closed, and the ones that were open were filthy. The shuttles were old and dirty. Breakfast was the same every day, which isn't what I expect from a 4-star hotel.

This could have been a dream place, forty years ago. The furnishings seem to be from that time. The property is beautiful but badly dated, and the low cost and a good night's sleep were about the only positives. Everything else needs work. The parking lights don't work, so at night you need your phone to find your room. Most walkway lights are out too, and where they do work, only one of three bulbs is lit. The tiled pool is clean and looks like it's from the 1980s, but its rusty, broken metal grates are dangerous. The only bar is by the pool, and you can get a drink only during its opening hours. Outside those times you have to sort things out yourself, and the bar selection is poor. I didn't use the beach shuttle, which was said to be efficient, but its equipment is dated. The staff were four young people who seemed willing, but also embarrassed by the poor service and quality. Willingness without organization or professionalism doesn't go far. Their clothes looked haphazard, and the place seemed to have little idea of organization or cleanliness. It's obvious they're not professionals. I saw the same people at breakfast, the pool bar, the beach, dinner, and the bar afterward. I wonder if they're happy with their food or if they're paying a lot. The room had a tiny shower cubicle, fine for children but not an adult, and very little water. Daily cleaning was minimal, and getting toilet paper was difficult. At 9:30 I left so they could clean, but I was back in the room ten minutes later and went back to sleep. The bidet broke and took 48 hours to fix. Breakfast was another letdown. They defrosted trays of plain frozen croissants unevenly, with 15-minute gaps. Jam and yogurt came in Eurospin tubs, the cake was dry and low quality, and there was toast but no bread. Savory food was available on request, but it was poor quality. There was a bowl of cereal and then little else apart from the usual vending machine that dispenses liquids. Seating was limited, often in the sun, and the terrace couldn't be used because it was exposed. I stopped going after the second day. I'm glad we didn't book half board. We tried to reserve dinner, but were sometimes told they weren't taking any more bookings because they were full. That makes it seem like there is no real kitchen and everything is prepackaged, hospital cafeteria style. If things continue this way without serious investment, I don't see a future for the place. Handing over management would be more dignified. A spot this beautiful deserves better. The past glories are just a vain memory.

Our stay ended today, and honestly, it's a shame to leave. The setting is lovely, green, and peaceful. The rooms are small but comfortable, and Room 506 had a stunning sea view. We used the shuttle, beach, and large, well-kept pool. We mostly skipped the entertainment because we just wanted to relax, but thanks to Bea and Laura for keeping us entertained. Davide and the bar staff also deserve thanks for the excellent breakfasts and efficient service. Everyone was courteous, including the cleaning ladies, who took care of every detail. The cleaning times often clashed with our schedule, though. We had a few ants in the room on the first day, but the problem was fully dealt with within a few hours. Some things could be improved, but we had a wonderful time. Special thanks to Franco and Sergio at the restaurant affiliated with the property. Their fresh smiles came with some mouth-watering delicacies. Ad maiora 🖤

It's a great spot for a relaxing seaside holiday, and the sea is splendid. The resort is right on the beach, with umbrellas, loungers, a bar, and sandwich service at lunchtime. It feels worth what you pay, trade-offs included, and has what you need. The shuttle service is excellent, and the staff are all friendly and helpful. The restaurant could be better, with a choice of seafood or meat and lunch service. I'd recommend it to people who can keep an open mind, overlook a few things, and enjoy what's offered for the price. Thanks, and see you soon.