Riviera Ionica Aparthotel

Breakfast was a letdown. We asked specifically for savory food, which seemed unusual there since most of the choices were sweet, and we ended up with stomach aches after eating it. We’d booked a sea view room at Riviera Jonica, but although we could see the sea in the distance, an unfinished section of the building and an old, run-down building right outside the window took over the view. Reception also wasn’t staffed during the hours listed on the website, which was inconvenient. The stay didn’t feel like the relaxing break we’d hoped for. Future guests may want to bear these issues in mind.

The big terrace was the highlight, with a sea view I won’t forget. Our upper suite was spacious and clean, and even had two bathrooms. The staff were really kind and helpful, and the view from the top apartment was beautiful. I’d happily recommend this as a family place.

The warmth of the people was the best part of our stay. Fabio made us feel genuinely welcome and did everything he could to make us comfortable. Our two-room apartment on the 4-th floor was new and just right, with a washing machine, two air conditioning systems, an elevator, and a huge balcony facing the sea. Breakfast and dinner were plentiful and full of Sicilian flavours, including fish, pizza, pasta and ice cream. Highly recommended. Grazie Fabio, voi sei vero profesionals!! Mihai and family

The price felt far too high for the low level of comfort, and the place had an unpleasant atmosphere. The building is out on the edge of town, far from the center, in a shabby area with lots of debris and abandoned, ruined houses nearby. The photos online aren’t all accurate, and this didn’t feel like a hotel, just somewhere to spend the night. A car wash and truck workshop share a wall with the building, so there’s constant crashing noise. It’s opposite the police department, but that didn’t cause any problems for guests. The hosts were too intrusive, repeatedly asking if everything was all right without doing anything about the issues we raised. Rooms aren’t cleaned, so guests have to tidy them and sort the rubbish themselves. No cleaning supplies, cloths or garbage bags are provided, so you have to buy them. Fresh linen and towels cost extra, as do beach loungers. Breakfast took 15-30 minutes or longer to arrive. The library was just 30-50 old magazines and about the same number of uninteresting books.