San Francisco Spiaggia

The meals were the highlight for me. With full board, we had a four-course lunch and dinner, plenty of choices from pasta and seafood to meat, vegetables, rice, sweets, and fruit, plus a salad bar. The food was fantastic, and the wine selection was lovely too, with sparkling or still water available. It felt like a special culinary experience, the best food I've had at a hotel. The hotel sits right by the sea, and everything was beautiful and clean. Staff were very friendly, and they spoke German and English. They also offered massages and excursions, and Friday brought live music and a gala dinner. Getting there was easy from Berlin, whether by plane, night train, or car, and there's a bus stop across from the hotel. One of the best places I've stayed.

The breakfast buffet was barely mediocre, and you had to queue to be served. We asked to move because our table was in a very hot, sunny spot, but no alternative was offered, so we stayed at the corner of the table. That was when we decided to leave, and told reception. The managers then spent 15 to 20 minutes trying to talk us into staying, stressing that this was a three-star hotel, despite our problems. We'd booked three weeks on half board. On arrival they showed us to a dim room with dated decor. Dinner was hard to describe: a slice of cold meat, barely cooked salmon, and another unidentifiable item. Back in the room, the air conditioning barely helped in the heat. We complained without getting any relief. In the morning, the shower only gave a trickle of water. We'd also paid extra for a refrigerator, which was filthy and dusty on top, as if it had just been brought up from a cellar. I strongly advise against staying here.

The cycling setup was a real plus: there was a lockable basement room for my racing bike, with step-free access outside, and the area is great for long rides. I also enjoyed exploring the hinterland for its sport and culture. At Hotel San Francisco Spiaggia, they were expecting me when I arrived. My room was tidy and cleaned daily, with a perfect sea view. The traditional food was freshly cooked and had plenty of choices. They also accommodated special food requests and packed lunches for my bike rides. The service was warm and friendly, and the price felt like excellent value. I had a very comfortable, restful stay. Thanks to the whole team!

The breakfast waiters had our drinks and my husband's coffee remembered by the second day, though he only had coffee at lunch. Linda and Pietro were terrific. The young waiters were so good, and the room cleaners were always attentive to what we asked for. The Balducci family makes us feel cared for and is wonderfully welcoming. This was our fourth year here, and my family and I have always had a lovely time by the sea. I know some reviews complain that the buffet is small and served by the owners or staff, but I think that's sensible given how much food guests waste when serving themselves. Ask for more and they'll bring seconds. Thanks for ten days of total relaxation. See you next year! And a special mention for their two funny dog mascots, Ragù and Roy, who even come along in the elevator. The Mattiangeli family