Calabona Hotel has a relaxed atmosphere that suits its pretty seaside setting. The three-pearl property's salmon-colored facade features lines of windows flanked by shutters on one side, while the rear features arched openings for the rooms' balconies. Inside, the lobby is decorated with pretty patterned tiles, simple white faux-leather couches, and a green wood front desk. While this area feels homey, the bar's blue faux-leather couches and the restaurant's mismatched orange and brown linens are old-fashioned. A more pleasant dining space is the tented Le Vele restaurant in the garden. As most guests are leisure travelers, they tend to spend most of their time by the pool on comfortable lounge chairs or under a beach umbrella by the sea. 

Located in the Calabona district of southern Alghero in northern Sardinia, at the start of the panoramic road that leads to Bosa, this hotel is an ideal spot for travelers who want both proximity to city attractions and the relaxing atmosphere of a seaside resort. It overlooks the Coral Riviera with views of the Capo Caccia promontory, making for spectacular sunset viewing. The historical center of Alghero (with plenty of shops, restaurants, and sites) is a 15- to 20-minute walk from the hotel along the seaside promenade. It can also be accessed via public transit, but that’s not always efficient, so renting a car or calling a taxi is probably best if not walking. The Alghero-Fertilia Airport is about a 20-minute drive away and the city of Porto Torres is 40 minutes. There's free parking available.

Comfortable rooms have a minimalist style, with very little artwork on the walls and clean-lined understated furnishings, some of which appear well-worn and in need of a remodel. Some rooms have quilts, old-fashioned furniture, and two-tone tiling that give it a homey feel, while others have more modern wood floors and light-wood furniture. All rooms have furnished balconies or patios, but views vary, and the best are the sea-view ones on the third floor. There are six types to choose from, ranging from Classic Rooms at 172 square feet (16 square meters) to Suites that are 484 square feet (45 square meters).

Bathrooms have shower/tub combos or walk-in showers, as well as hairdryers, basic toiletries, and bidets. All rooms come equipped with flat-screen TVs (some of these run on the smaller side), centralized air-conditioning and heating, minibars, safes, and free Wi-Fi. Higher-priced rooms offer additional amenities that include tea- and coffee-making facilities, bathrobes, slippers, and color therapy showers.

Leisure travelers will find plenty of on-site amenities to keep busy. Arguable the main draw is the small, sandy beachfront that has a secluded feel and is lined with loungers and umbrellas. The hotel is also centered around a large swimming pool with two hot tubs and a terrace with cushioned lounge chairs, umbrellas, and views of the water. A small, separate pool is available for kids, and gardens around the hotel include a playground. A spa offers a sauna and services such as massages and facials, but keep in mind that there is no gym. The hotel's few business travelers will find multiple meeting spaces available, including a conference hall that seats up to 380. Wi-Fi is free throughout the hotel, but it can be spotty.

Dining options include the main Italian restaurant on the lower level that serves fresh local seafood and Sardinian wine, as well as lunch and bar service on a poolside deck. Additionally, the open-air Le Vele restaurant is situated under a canopy in the hotel’s Mediterranean garden and offers free entertainment and live music at night. Breakfast buffets (included in all rates) are served here in the summer or in the main restaurant on colder days. Half-board options are available.