Stromboli Beach Tropea

I didn’t relax at all, and I definitely won’t return or recommend this place. For 10 days, the only hot water I had was in the cabin, the drain was blocked, and ants kept crawling around the bathroom. You expect at least basic comfort from a four-star hotel, especially when you’ve worked and paid for a proper holiday. Instead, nearly everything cost extra: the shuttle to the beach was one euro each way per person, not per day; dining out cost five euros per person; and an extra bottle of water was two euros. Restaurant service wasn’t always available, and between courses we sometimes waited an hour. The buffet stayed the same for 11 days, as did breakfast, and getting breakfast often took two hours. Finding an umbrella and lounge chair was another daily rush because they weren’t numbered, so I had to set an alarm to secure a spot. I saw people arguing over places on the beach, and outsiders who weren’t staying there were given spots too. Even on half-board, you had to pay for a beach lounger.

It’s a good choice for an event or a quiet family break. The staff, including the owner, were friendly and helpful, and the food was excellent, with a generous breakfast offering sweet and savory choices. The hotel sits on a hill with a stunning view, an adult pool, and a smaller one for children. They put on themed evenings and have entertainers, though I didn’t get to see them because my time was limited. The property is unique and meticulously maintained, but I expected a little more from the room furnishings and amenities such as parking. You can walk to the beach, but the road is very steep, so the hotel runs a shuttle up and down. Guests get umbrellas and loungers free, though the beach is reached by stepped walkways with patches of grass or sand. There’s a small bar and restaurant with tables and chairs where I enjoyed eating by the sea. Getting into the water can be tricky depending on the tides, as the seabed has sand, rocks, and stones.

A gorgeous sea-view terrace makes this spot especially nice for an aperitivo. The restaurant is right by the hotel and very close to the sea, with delicious fresh fish and generous portions. Prices are average for the value. Pizza seems to be the favorite, though it hasn’t won me over yet.

The seafront room was heavenly, and the beach was spacious, well equipped, and never too crowded, with umbrellas nicely spaced out. The property has an upper section with reception, bar, pool, restaurant, and rooms, plus a lower section with some seafront rooms, the beach, and its own bar and restaurant. A shuttle connects the two. Reception staff Paola, Romina, Silvia, Valeria, and another blonde were fantastic, always friendly and ready to take us up and down quickly. Everyone greeted us warmly on arrival and was helpful. Food was excellent, with plenty of choice at breakfast and dinner, and the waiters and waitresses were efficient and very kind. It was the perfect couple’s break to unwind and eat well. We hated leaving and will definitely come back to Stromboli Beach.