Vacation Villa Blue Ark

We stayed in a roomy, clean seaside villa along Route 17 on the way to Toi, with a lovely view. We went in mid-November, but I’d like to return during beach season in summer.

Being able to have the whole place to ourselves felt more special than staying at a hotel or inn. The interior was stylish enough that my husband said he’d like a house like it, and the staff who checked us in were very pleasant. We spent winter days simply watching the sun go down over Nishiizu. The ocean was beautiful, and falling asleep to the waves was so soothing. Every room has big windows, and the two floors each have separate living and sleeping areas. It’s a lot of space for just two people, but there’s room for six. The open-air jacuzzi was my favorite. At night the moon looked gorgeous from the bath, and I could have stayed in there forever. I also loved that the shower and jacuzzi could be reached straight from the beach, which is handy after activities. There was plenty of kitchen equipment and tableware. The kitchen and terrace were very clean, and even beginners could manage a BBQ. We didn’t do activities because it was winter, but we’ll definitely come back in a warmer season.

The oceanfront location was lovely, and breakfast was delicious, which made the rest of the stay feel like a shame. There were quite a few problems in the villa. The air conditioner had mold, the outdoor BBQ grills looked dirty and used, and the sponges were worn out. As soon as I opened the door, there was a strong smell of rubber and oil, maybe from the bicycle by the entrance. The garden also looked nothing like the photos. I don’t know if that was meant to give privacy, but it was overgrown and full of horseflies. We were told we could use the SUP, but it wasn’t inflated. At reception, the staff member’s manner wasn’t very good. Before booking, I asked whether there’d be a charge for my five-month-old, but got no reply and was told I had to pay on the day. I waited at the desk to ask again, but they walked past me several times. They said they’d check with a supervisor and get back to me in the morning, but never did. There was no explanation of breakfast times. We had to walk to the parking lot, and it was raining with no umbrellas available. I wish they’d lent us one when breakfast was delivered. Parking next door would also be much more convenient. Thanks for your help, despite all that.

There were lots of rooms, and the interior had clearly been thought through. The staff were courteous and helpful at both check-in and check-out. The beach was right there, with direct access from the veranda. We could hear the waves while using the jacuzzi and having a BBQ, which made for great memories. Two bicycles were provided too, and cycling along the coast in the sea breeze was a really nice experience. We’d love to come back with a group of around six.