Via Sauci Grande 1, San Vito lo Capo, Italy | (937) 315-4602
Close proximity to the Zingaro Nature Reserve
Small private, rocky beach with clear waters
Two pools including gorgeous infinity pool overlooking the sea
Poolside bar and two restaurants serving Sicilian fare
Rooms sleep multiple people (ideal for families)
Kitchenettes and full refrigerators
Ceiling fans and air-conditioning
Free Wi-Fi in the lobby
Group activities for children
Meeting rooms available
Free shuttle to the beach
Check-in process can be lengthy and inefficient
Rooms in serious need of a facelift
Lots of stairs everywhere (prohibitive for strollers, wheelchairs, disabled patrons)
Very isolated location (pro for some)
Mediocre food service
Market on premises, but items are priced markedly higher than in town
Small TVs with limited satellite channels
Uncomfortable foam/futon-type mattresses on beds
Fee for extra beach towels
Seasonal reservations only (property is open from May through October)
Located on the very northwest tip of Sicily right near the Zingaro Nature Reserve, this 267-room value resort leaves visitors feeling like they might have just stepped back in time about 60 years. Though there are modern inclusions like Wi-Fi in the lobby and satellite channels on the small in-room TVs, the actual suites and common areas leave a lot to be desired (uncomfortable beds, basic decor, run-down amenities, cafeteria-like food). That being said, if your goal is to experience the natural beauty of Siciliy nestled in the mountains but bordering the sea, this property can't be beat. The ocean-view infinity pool and ruggedly beautiful rocky beach fronting clear waters are the main highlights.
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Scene
Family-friendly old-world resort by the sea
Picture the resort in the movie "Dirty Dancing" but place it in Italy, on the beach, with lots of stairs and a theater that sometimes serves as a cabaret or disco and you've got the picture of Calampiso Sea Country Resort (also referred to as Calampiso San Vito Lo Capo Resort). The only problem with this comparison is that many of the main areas of the resort also look like they haven't been renovated since that era (the tennis courts, volleyball and soccer areas are all run-down). However, some areas have undergone minor refurbishments since our visit, such as the lobby, which received new blue chair cushions and an all-white paint job. There are group activities and many meals served in what almost feels like a camp setting, which encourages guest interaction (there are two restaurants on-site as well as a poolside bar). The gorgeous infinity pool overlooks the sea, but it does feel a little strange that all swimmers must wear swim caps (apparently for sanitary reasons, or maybe this adds to the nostalgic feel?). There are multiple platforms on the rocks with umbrellas and chairs for sunning, and the views of the crystal blue water serve as a constant reminder that this is vacation time!
Location
Isolated area on the outskirts of San Vito lo Capo, but right on the beach and near the Zingaro Nature Reserve
Set on a hill that slopes down to the sea, this resort is about 20 minutes up a winding road from downtown San Vito lo Capo (meaning that a vehicle is necessary to get to and from this isolated property). The benefit of this commute, however, is quick access to the beach and Zingaro Nature Reserve. The resort itself is spread out and there is definitely climbing involved (lots of stairs) so be aware that those with disabilities or small children may find themselves challenged by the layout.
Rooms
Dingy and dated, rooms are spacious but in need of an overhaul.
The rooms here are very green...not in the eco-friendly sense, but as in the actual color green! Expect plenty of green painted wood. Rooms also have tile floors, painted tile detailing on the white stucco walls, and coral and green floral fabrics. The overall effect is retro and quite basic.
If you're looking for space to house a family for a week, this resort can accommodate; some of the rooms have up to five beds. Just keep in mind that these "beds" are more like cots, bunk beds, and futons than plush European feather beds. The upside is that an entire family could crash in one room. The downside is that the rooms are in need of renovation and oftentimes come missing promised items such as cutlery, plates, and glasses -- in spite of the security deposit guests must pay at check-in to guarantee those amenities. Also, the kitchenette is just that (don't expect a gourmet culinary set-up -- it's more of a place one could make sandwiches midday).
The rooms have private balconies and bathrooms (though no tubs, only showers and bidets). The televisions are small but do include some satellite channels.
Features
On-site meeting rooms, pools, restaurants, and children's camp
Two restaurants (serving breakfast, lunch and dinner), a poolside bar, and a large banquet meeting room make this property a realistic option for large tour groups or conventions up to 600 people. Il Grottino (serving lunch) and La Tonnara (serving dinner) both dish up local Sicilian fare.
The two ocean-view pools are a key feature of the resort, especially the lovely infinity pool where the water views are truly jaw-dropping. There are various rocky (and ruggedly beautiful) beach areas with decks for sunning and clear waters for swimming. Five tennis courts, a volleyball court, a soccer field, basketball and aerobics classes give guests a physical outlet if they choose to be active, and the children's camp is a great option for families looking to entertain their kids on vacation.
