Hotel Larisa Azuga

I was disappointed by how small the room was compared with the booking description and what’s shown online. When we asked to see it, the manager also said cancellations require 30 days’ notice. The bathrooms are very dated, and I burned my stomach because I was too close to the shower pipe. There’s no room service or housekeeping, and I haven’t seen a housekeeper here during my stay. There’s no vending machine for drinks or snacks either, so bring something before staying overnight. The manager is the only reason I’m giving this place one star.

The internet wasn’t very good for anyone hoping to work, and our apartment felt a bit cramped. The bathroom was somewhat dirty, too. Still, we had a lovely time because we mainly wanted to relax and get some fresh air. The setting is gorgeous, with mountains, a river and forest that felt like a little piece of heaven. The service was extremely poor, though. Over four days we were served chicken three times, and we couldn’t order from the restaurant while a group of children was there because the kitchen didn’t have enough staff. Breakfast also started late, after 9:30, and there wasn’t coffee available before then.

The restaurant serves simple, typical Romanian food, and the accommodation itself is fairly basic. Rooms are small, the double beds are only 140 cm wide, and it can be a little cold in winter. There isn’t a lot else to complain about, but the place has an old communist feel to its style and habits. Don’t expect the comfort or charm of a proper mountain chalet or hotel.

The reception staff seemed able to say little beyond “I’m sorry,” which she was very good at repeating. I knew the managers, but that didn’t help much. The manager said he was at the mercy of the owners, who live on the property and were completely useless. The place was in total disarray, with far too many problems to list, and the service was nonexistent. One of my worst stays ever. Avoid it at any cost.