Strada Statale 113 Km 301.100, Terrasini, Italy
Breathtaking views over the bay
Many rooms have balconies overlooking the water
Numerous pools, include an Olympic-size pool and ones with waterslides
Lots of activities including tennis, mini-golf, and volleyball
On-site kids's club keeps younger guests entertained
Beautiful gardens with lush foliage and a walking path
Nighttime entertainment in outdoor amphitheater
Guests have free access to the spa facilities, which include a sauna and heated whirlpool bath
Numerous meeting rooms for conferences and business travel
Common areas show signs of wear and tear
Rooms are bland and dated
Far away from nightlife and dining options
Check-in can be lengthy
Hotel can be noisy, including at night because of shows
Some guests feel inconvenienced by the pre-paid card system mandatory for bar purchases
Fee for Wi-Fi
This very large resort, built in the '70s, is often frequented by families and groups traveling with children. The rooms are dorm-like and basic (but relatively spacious). The property offers a variety of daytime activities, including mini-golf, tennis, and outdoor bowling. The main attractions are arguably the extensive system of waterslides and the Olympic-size pool. Many guests have commented that both the rooms as well as the common areas are rundown from the high amount of traffic throughout the property.
Scene
Gigantic resort, popular with youth groups and families
Gatherings like youth tournaments and group retreats occur frequently at this property, which has the space to accommodate crowds and the necessary amenities to distract them, particularly the younger set. The hotel also frequently hosts conferences. Common areas have a bit of an institutional feel to them, and are decorated in dull pastel colors. The lobby is tiled in linoleum and contains cushioned wicker chairs for waiting -- which you may spend a lot of time doing if checking in during busy season. The age of the building shows both in the outdated design aesthetic and in the signs of wear and tear throughout.
Location
In a secluded area on a cliff overlooking the Gulf of Castellamare
There is little else around the resort itself; it is located on a cliff overlooking the Gulf of Castellammare, in the southern Tyrrhenian Sea. The hotel is surrounded by a wooded area. The nearest bus station is around three or so miles away in Terrasini; transfer to the hotel can be arranged in advance. The Palermo Airport is about 17 miles from the hotel. The Zingaro Nature Reserve, with its small and intimate beaches, is about two hours away by car.
Rooms
Spartan and outdated, with inconveniences that include a dearth of electrical outlets
The rooms here are suited to those expecting a basic experience: Bedding is old and a bit dingy, while furniture is plain and looks to be made of wood laminate. The resulting vibe is reminiscent of a youth hostel or dorm. Some other gripes from guests include that the TVs, included in all rooms, may not receive all promised channels; the bathrooms are small with stall showers; and the balconies are also very modest in size. The dated nature of the building translates to a dearth of outlets in the rooms.
Features
Highlights include the cool water features, including an extensive system of waterslides and an Olympic-size pool
Though large enough to accommodate the crowds, the restaurant receives average reviews. Many guests have commented that the taste of the tap water throughout the resort is unpleasant enough to discourage drinking it. Entry to the spa is included with the room price (though services cost extra): The spa consists of a sauna, a Turkish bath, a heated whirlpool bath, a relaxation room, and massage rooms. The hotel also features a small fitness center enclosed with wire mesh instead of regular walls. Plenty of activities are offered for adults and kids, including tennis, volleyball, and windsurfing. There is also a kids' club for young visitors, which has a focus on play and dance. One of the main attractions of the property is the extensive waterslide system and the multiple pools, one of which is Olympic-size. Many have noted that these amenities can get very busy in the summertime.