L'Eco Del Mare

Super holiday home.

The room itself was dim, the window stuck, and the closet squeaked. In the bathroom there was no toilet paper, the toilet seat was loose, and the mirror lights had no bulbs. The so-called free valet parking was just a spot beneath a tree. We were left on our own at night because the owners were somewhere else, and the promised cleaning and tidying never happened. Getting there was another problem. The dirt road to The Echo of the Sea in San Mauro Cilento felt like a Camel Trophy route, and a 4x4 SUV would be advisable. We got no help at check-in, not even with our luggage. Breakfast didn't match the listing's promise of hot drinks, croissants, and savory items on request. On our first morning, we couldn't even get lemon in warm water, and explaining “caffè e latte” was hard. I was asked repeatedly whether I wanted coffee or milk. The pool was barely bigger than a bathtub, and using it cost extra. The “no diving” sign seemed ridiculous. Maybe this could work as a basic, no-frills country-house B&B, but calling it a “Country House” and charging €120 a day? Absolutely not. It was a disappointment.

The rooms are lovely and spacious, each with its own bathroom, and the beds are good. Cooking for yourself could be a bit awkward because the kitchen isn't ideal for that. The house is gorgeous, and Elena and Maurizio are such warm, friendly hosts. Getting to the place takes some care: potholes, a stony unpaved stretch, steep bits, and tight hairpin turns near the house make access difficult.

A surprise awaits at the end of the dirt road, about 10 minutes from the village: a little paradise among olive and other fruit trees. There's a sea-view pool and a lovely covered terrace with a big dining table and barbecue. The house is in great shape and feels comfortable. Everything we needed was there, and the owners were attentive and warm. They even gave me olive oil and wine, and we all played cards together. It was truly wonderful. Thank you from the bottom of my heart for an unforgettable holiday. This is a beautiful spot for a relaxing break.