Villa Arcadio

Given the price point of Villa Arcadia I am comparing it to other high-end “restoration” properties we have visited in Puglia, Piedmonte and Tuscany. The plus points are recorded by many others including the view and comfortable rooms. Why deduct 2*s? Well the first is for the evening meal. It was a Sunday evening but it was poor. The turbot dish I had was one of the most disappointing I’ve eaten. Such a great fish usually. My wife was even more unhappy. Vegetables in quasi-toast racks was dire - cold and not integrated. We ate out each of the other 5 nights. One of their recommendations was fabulous. The other issue is around the pool and grounds. The owner had no doubt a difficult decision to take on how to site the pool. It is on the north side of the villa with a high bank behind it to the west. The result is that just three sun loungers can face south and by 14.30 in September most of the pool terrace is in shade from the Villa or bank. There are three old deck chairs in the grounds that we used once to overcome this issue. Also there is road noise. It is not excessive unless a motorcycle is revving hard, but it’s there. The properties I’m comparing it to did not have shady pools or any road noise. Minor issues were the hot water being not hot enough and a basin that leaked - shaving not great. The aircon is set back each day to 28c and taming it was a challenge not overcome until night 4. Clearly popular and two wedding receptions whilst we were there.

This hotel was for us, pretty flawless. It’s got all the elements of being a small family run boutique hotel (intimate, quiet, personal) but also the elements of being highly professional (beautiful design, incredible food, great cocktail list!). The rooms don’t necessarily have views of the lake but this didn’t matter one ounce to us - the views from the resort including for breakfast, dinner and around the pool are incredible. The breakfast is delightful, the Tuesday evening barbecue was incredible, and the service for us struck the perfect balance - there for you when you wanted it and always incredibly helpful but not intrusive. We can’t wait to go back.

As so often, it was a wonderful evening. The food was excellent and the service professional and warm. The view of the lake and the atmosphere are unique in this quality in Salo. We always like to come back and look forward to seeing you again.