Hotel del Sole

Breakfast had lots of choices, though the products tasted overly processed and artificial. With some care, we could still put together a decent meal, even with dietary needs like low sugar or avoiding ultra-processed foods. The beach bar also had a good range of light meals, from fresh seafood and salads to panzanella and burgers, and the drinks were well priced. Service there was relaxed and suited the holiday mood. The room was better than we expected for a 3-star hotel: recently renovated, clean, and well equipped. The seafront terrace was a lovely place to relax, and the beach service with sunbeds and umbrellas was generally friendly and well organized. One lifeguard especially went out of his way to help elderly or less mobile guests, which we really appreciated. The hotel is right by the beach and within walking distance of the town center. Reception left us with mixed feelings. We arrived at 2 PM and were asked to wait until 3 PM for our room, which was understandable. But check-out was at 11 AM and beach access ended at 1 PM, even though sunbeds were still empty afterward and we'd only checked in at 3 PM. A more customer-oriented approach would have been appreciated. Arranging a taxi back also felt pressuring. We were told they only worked with one specific company, the fare was almost double what we'd paid on arrival, it was cash-only, and the driver came 30 minutes earlier than requested. It gave the impression they wanted us gone quickly. On the plus side, we got an excellent nearby restaurant tip, Al Porticciolo in the harbor. We went back three nights in a row for fresh oysters, grilled calamari, seafood pasta, and perfectly baked seabass with rosemary potatoes.

The local feel was lovely, with lots of Italians coming here on holiday. We had a beautiful view from our room, and breakfast overlooking the sea was delicious. The hotel is right on the front line, with its own beach, comfortable sunbeds, and umbrellas. Our room also had a safe and kitchenette. The friendly, polite staff cleaned the room every day and did a great job. Special thanks to the manager Enzo, such a polite and pleasant person. We’ve never met anyone like him in the hotel business. He felt like an old friend we’d known for years.

The rocky beach and surrounding area were nice, but our family suite was old and dated, even though some other rooms are nice. We had both children listed on the reservation, yet when we arrived they said we'd only booked for one child and made us pay extra. I was very disappointed with how they treated us. If you stay here with kids, be careful. I read that this had happened to other reviewers too.

You can get to the beach from here, though it’s a stone beach, so bring footwear. The train station is about a 15 min walk away, with trains to Rome and a 9 euro round trip ticket. Both gentlemen I met at the service counter were extremely friendly and helpful. I travel a lot, and these guys were top notch. I’d definitely stay here again.