Oleandri Resort Paestum – Hotel Residence Villaggio Club

The Oleandri Resort prides itself on its shabby chic style, which in this case means low-lying, villa-style white stucco buildings teeming with vegetation, including palm trees, succulents, bougainvilleas, cacti, and of course oleanders, set both in built-in planters incorporated into the exterior architecture, and in a plethora of standing pots set around the property. The interiors are simple, with terra-cotta tile floors and a continuation of the white decor and garden-themed tchotchkes. Guests have noted the considerable number of small children on the property, often resulting in noise and splashing at the pool.

As with a number of resorts and hotels surrounding Paestum, this one is set on the country road known as Via Poseidon that runs parallel to this particular stretch of coastline and is separated from the ocean by a small strip of pine trees. There are no shops or restaurants immediately surrounding the hotel; those wishing for alternative dining or needing shopping will need to walk or drive to Paestum, or to a neighboring hotel.

Plain white rooms are considerably improved by the simple addition of Italian ceramic painted tiles in most rooms in both the floors and the bathrooms, as well as colorful quilts on the beds, though some rooms look more updated and stylish than others. Suites are more spacious and airy-feeling. Full bathtubs, rainhead showers, and heated towel racks make the larger bathrooms feel much more luxurious; smaller ones have a stall shower. All rooms have terraces, air-conditioning, slippers, hairdryers, safes, and satellite TVs. Families may want to book a room with a kitchenette. Past guests have complained of thin walls and exterior noise. Wi-Fi isn't available in the rooms.

The extensive outdoor pool, with its wooden bridge and mass of surrounding vegetation, slopes gently at the entrances, making it suitable for toddlers. The water is not heated; guests have noted the pool is fairly cool until mid-June. Because many of the guests here take half or full board owing to the lack of dining options immediately surrounding the property, the resort cooks for large quantities and while reviews of the traditional Italian fare are largely favorable, guests have noted there is little variety from day to day. The hotel maintains a covered beach bar, as well as a children's playground and day and nighttime animation for little ones. Wi-Fi is free and slow in the public areas.