Lantana Resort Hotel & Apartments

Stout palm trees lining the driveway that leads to a wooden-beamed, columned entrance initially gives the Lantana Hotel & Residence a feel of somewhere between a Roman villa and a South American hacienda. Inside, terra-cotta tiling, broad arches, and wicker furniture bring to mind a Mediterranean farmhouse with Moorish accents, while passing through into the grounds, a garden of cacti and succulents is reminiscent of a miniature Mexican desert landscape. The rest of the grounds are composed of swathes of lawns flanked by sculpted hedges, tropical flora, and trees laden with lemons and oranges; shaded footpaths connect a semi-circle of low-rise accommodation buildings. The atmosphere is one of total peace and quiet, with little in the way of noise beyond the occasional trickle of a nearby fountain or chirping of birdlife. While the property might be lacking in authentic Italian architecture, the complex is clean and well-maintained throughout, with a secluded and relaxing vibe that attracts an even mix of older couples and families with kids. 

The hotel is located on the edge of a residential neighborhood roughly halfway between the picturesque Sardinian village of Pula and a lovely stretch of coastline along the south of the island. Pula's center, with its modest collection of restaurants and cafes, is a 15-minute stroll. With its particularly calm and shallow waters, the child-friendly Su Guventeddu Beach is around a 20 minute walk away or a five-minute drive -- there's also a free shuttle service for guests. Also five minutes' drive away is the Nora archeological area, an open-air museum and site dating from 9th century BC. Next to this is the Nora Lagoon nature reserve and aquarium, also popular with families. It's about a 35-minute drive from the hotel to Cagliari Elmas Airport. 

Accommodation is split between 24 guest rooms in the Hotel building and 32 apartments in the Residence building. Interiors are mostly similar throughout, with country-style terra-cotta tile floors, Moroccan-style walls, and wrought iron accents; some apartments have been updated with a slightly more contemporary feel. Apartments feature one or two separate bedrooms that sleep up to six guests, plus an open-plan lounge, dining, and kitchen areas (with dishwashers, refrigerators/freezers, and microwaves). Wi-Fi is free of charge and reliable throughout.

Other standard amenities include air-conditioning, flat-screen TVs, mini-fridges, and electronic safes. Superior Rooms add small sitting areas with sofas. Cheerful bathrooms with traditional tiles come with either step-in showers or shower/tub combos, wall-mounted hairdryers, and hotel branded toiletries. While most are large enough, some bathrooms can feel a little cramped. Rooms and apartments all open to furnished ground or upper-floor terraces, mostly overlooking the pool or gardens though some overlook the hotel's car park. Note that apartments have an earlier check-out time than hotel rooms. 

Features here are mainly focused on the pool and restaurant. The complex is centered around a large swimming pool, one end with shallower water and water fountain feature for kids. Since it's unheated, the water can be a little chilly in the cooler months. Loungers are plentiful, albeit a little old fashioned, and terraces are spacious and clean -- though there's no poolside bar or waiter service. The pool is an area mostly for relaxing. There's little in the way of organized activities, though children have a playground and entertainment during the summer months. The hotel's only restaurant is open for buffet breakfast each morning, serving an excellent mix of local products, homemade pastries, and egg dishes. The price of breakfast is included in the rooms, though it cost extra for apartments. Half-board packages are available. The restaurant is also open for lunch and dinner, serving an a la carte menu of traditional Sardinian and Italian cooking. A full bar provides cocktails and wine. During the summer the hotel also organizes Champagne evenings under the full moon, as well as occasional Sardinian evenings featuring folk music and dancing with (optional) guest participation. Wi-Fi is free throughout the hotel.