Club Cala Regina

This sprawling property has gained a following with French tourists, many of whom come with their families. The building dates back to the late '60s, and a slightly retro aesthetic reminiscent of corporate parks pervades the common areas, including in the celestially themed murals, ample tiled hallways, and the kitschy curved architecture of the extensive lobby. The rooms are laid out in six-story, stucco terraced structures that face the sea in a sort of industrial layout overlooking a manicured lawn.

This hotel is part of a complex of four hotels, and it -- along with the Torre del Barone Club -- face the sea. The Club Alicudi Hotel and Club Lipari Hotel have undergone more recent renovations than the Cala Regina, however. Those looking for nightlife here are likely to be disappointed, as the hotel essentially shuts down around midnight, and the disco is only open for about an hour. The hotels seem to organize their entertainment and animation teams separately; combining forces in the evening might result in a more lively atmosphere.

The hotel is situated in a grove of olive trees overlooking the beach, and it's a short walk down a staircase and a narrow path to the water (though it might be a difficult trek for those with mobility impairments).

The hotel is about eight miles from the town of Sciacca. There is no public transportation, though the hotel complex runs a shuttle approximately every hour. In a car, the trip between the two areas takes about seven minutes. A car is definitely recommended for those who want to explore, as the tours organized by the hotel can be a bit pricey.

The wood-paneled rooms here are a bit aseptic, though there is something agreeable in their clean lines and modern aesthetic, reminiscent of a boat cabin, albeit larger. The color scheme is white and sand, with a few black-and-white photographs. A small, wall-mounted flat-screen TV sits underneath the recessed lighting of a laminate strip lining the wall facing the beds, and rooms come with mini-fridges. The rooms have communicating doors, and, as a result, noise carries. Bathrooms have a combination full tub and shower, and an assortment of toiletries. All rooms have a small, concrete terraces, and many overlook the ocean, furnished with cafe tables and chairs. Note that many guests have complained of noise issues in the room.

The large property maintains a number of facilities geared toward sports, including two pools -- one indoors and one outdoor -- tennis courts, ping-pong, and several areas designated for children, including a large indoor room covered in block color mats. Some guests have complained that the organized kids' activities aren't particularly exciting. Both daytime and evening entertainment are on offer, but get mixed reviews.

The restaurant, with its panoramic view of the sea and slightly kitschy nautical decor, generally receives favorable reviews from guests. The buffet entrees can get a bit repetitive for those on longer holidays, however, and some guests have complained that the fruit is not always ripe. Guests get reserved tables for the week.

The pool has ocean views, outdoor showers, and shade under a pergola, but can get quite crowded, and there is no shallow kiddy pool for little ones. There are usually ample loungers and umbrellas at the sandy beach, but the water is quite chilly. The bay is protected by an artificial reef, and no motorized water sports are available. Reserving spots by the pool and beach with a towel is not allowed.