Hotel Ganimede

Housed in a two-floor white building, the Ganimede has a contemporary Mediterranean style in its architecture and decor. Lush, well-landscaped grounds with gardens and palm trees surround an outdoor pool, while the spacious terrace has white tables with red parasols. The lobby has white walls, white furniture with red cushions, and sea-blue tiled floors in keeping with the property's overall look. Arches at various points frame views of the garden. There's an unfussy, relaxed feel throughout the hotel, perfect for leisure travelers who want a quiet beach-ready stay without bells and whistles.

Hotel Ganimede is located in the newer section of Sperlonga, surrounded by terraced houses and gardens. The hotel is just south of the SR-213 highway, about 10 to 15 minutes by foot from the center of the Sperlonga old town. Keep in mind that the walk might be a bit strenuous, since there are a lot of stairs. But the Ganimede offers a free shuttle to the old town and the beach, which is south of the hotel. The other major attraction in the area is the ancient villa of the Roman emperor Tiberius and its grotto with Hellenic art. The villa lies southeast of the hotel and is considered part of the Parco Regionale Riviera di Ulisse, which is a 20-minute drive southeast.

Water skiing opportunities are available on Lago Lungo and Lago San Puoto lakes, both short drives northwest. The Fondi-Sperlonga train station is also seven-and-a-half miles north of the Ganimede, though it's a little pricey to get to the hotel by taxi. The nearest airport is in Naples, about 65 miles northwest and more than a 90-minute drive.

The two-floor Hotel Ganimede has 25 rooms varying in size. Spaces are soundproofed and quiet, and have a basic, minimalist feel with white walls. The floors are sea-blue in color, keeping with the Mediterranean style of the hotel and there's an emphasis on tiling, which can make the bathrooms in particular look a bit dated as far as style goes. Amenities include free Wi-Fi, wall-mounted flat-screen TVs with satellite channels, mini-bars, and in-room safes. Some rooms have computers. Units on the top floor have balconies, while those on the ground floor have garden terraces. Some balconies and terraces feature jetted tubs for a convivial outdoor soak.

Hotel Ganimede's private beach on the Tyrrhenian Sea, which guests can access for a fee, has clear water, soft sand, showers, thatched tiki-style beach umbrellas, and deck chairs. In addition, there's a covered cafe with wood floors and white tables serving alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks and snacks. Back at the hotel, guests can refresh themselves in the large outdoor swimming pool surrounded by a sun terrace, palm trees, and a garden. The free breakfast spread is ample and includes hot items like eggs in addition to typical continental fare like baked goods and cereal. The restaurant looks out over the pool and serves Mediterranean cuisine with an emphasis on local seafood. A five-course menu changes every night. Free parking and a computer station are on-site as well, while free bicycle use is available for local jaunts. Overall facilities are slightly limited for a hotel of this rating class, as the property has no fitness room or spa with a sauna or steam room.