Borgo di Riaci Beach Resort

We had a rental car and parking was easy, with a free space always available. The whole place felt welcoming and restful, and everything was spotless with excellent facilities. The beach was clean and peaceful, and we went swimming and snorkelling every day. There were lots of colourful fish, and the scenery around the hotel was breathtaking. We spent a week here and thought the location was stunning. The staff were consistently kind and helpful. It was a perfect relaxing holiday, and we’d happily come back.

The setting is the best part: spectacular nature and fantastic sunsets. The hotel itself was a big letdown, though, and I wouldn’t return. It felt overpriced and overrated, with awful service. Dinner costs €40 per person for very basic food that wasn’t tasty in the way you’d expect in Italy. Every table is indoors in what feels like a canteen, despite the lovely garden space. Staff had very limited English and didn’t seem to know what service at a four-star hotel should be. It definitely didn’t feel like four stars. You also have to wear a swimming cap to use the pool, and I suspect it’s cleaned only now and then. Beach towels cost an extra €10.

The only thing we didn’t enjoy was dinner. Breakfast was really nice, well presented, and served in a cozy restaurant. We don’t speak Italian, but communicating with the staff was easy, and we’d definitely come back. It’s a really nice hotel in a lovely spot. Pool bar prices were great, €3 for a Coke and €10 for a salad or sandwiches, and they even brought food down to the beach. Our room was cleaned every day, and the garden and the property are clearly well cared for. The pool is cleaned daily too. You do need a swimming cap, but that’s Italy.

Such a beautiful setting, and it was a pleasure staying here. There are a few things that could be improved, but the staff really tried to make our stay as enjoyable as possible. I’d recommend it.