Verna

The staff were friendly and helpful, and the room was clean. Still, the dated, sparse furnishings and the awkward fixtures and windows made my room look as if it had been converted from a terrace. The bathroom was clean too, but the shower tap was fitted backwards, there was a curtain instead of a stall, and the toiletries were lacking. The shower gel was an open, half-empty supermarket-style bottle. Hotel Verna sits on the hills overlooking the sea, though getting around from there isn't especially convenient. I didn't eat at the restaurant, so I can't comment on the food. It could use an update and more care with small details. I'd recommend it to people with modest expectations.

The meal was simple and plentiful, with generous portions of tasty, slightly spicy penne rigate in tomato sauce. Before that, we had prosciutto, salami, cheeses, and bruschetta topped with fresh tomatoes and plenty of prosciutto. The owner brought out another tray of pasta, though not everyone had seconds. It's an affordable, clean, simple hotel where my staff working on the beach are staying. Good for people who aren't fussy about food.

I've been here twice for family lunches, and both visits felt just like being at home. It's family-run, and the food is simple local home cooking, not overly elaborate. The fresh pasta and local grilled meats were excellent. After the meal, ask the chef and owner to suggest a liqueur or two.