Baglio Fontanotti SNC, Contrada Macari, San Vito lo Capo, Italy | (937) 315-4602
Pool has stunning ocean view
Mountain location near the beach
Beautiful grounds and gardens
Free Wi-Fi, breakfast, and parking
Rooms are quiet
Pets allowed
Laundry facilities on-site
Isolated location
No restaurant on-site
Apartments have weekly cleaning/electricity fee
Worn kitchens utensils in villas
Not well-lit after sunset (hinders walking around and finding entrance)
Tap water not potable
If you're looking for privacy and quiet, this value resort located in the hills between San Vito lo Capo and Casteluzzo will fit the bill. With an eight-room B&B and 33 separate apartment units on-site, guests can choose between personal service or total independence. The central pool and surrounding deck have striking views of the sea below with a rocky, mountainous backdrop adding to the location's appeal. Room interiors are unfortunately a bit worn, but the exteriors of the property are lovely. Travelers looking for a Sicilian vacation away from the crowds will appreciate the Residence Cala dell'Arena's more isolated location, though if you intend to do anything other than lie by the pool during your stay, a car rental is a good idea.
Disclaimer: This content was accurate at the time the hotel was reviewed. Please check our partner sites when booking to verify that details are still correct.
Scene
Quiet privacy in the hills overlooking the Gulf of Macari
This quiet escape in the hills of Sicily is blessed with gorgeous views of the crystal blue sea below. Lush, well-maintained grounds with tiled arches and stone pathways peppered with blooming bougainvillea and other Mediterranean vegetation help give the property a natural vibe. The same isolation which gives Cala dell'Arena its private feel, however, can also make it a little sleepy if you like vacations that include more than just lying by the pool all day. The sunsets are stunning but the hotel lacks adequate nighttime lighting (it can even be hard to find since the front gate doesn't have a light) and as there is no bar on-site. If nightlife if your thing, be prepared to travel into town.
Location
Isolated property between the towns of San Vito lo Capo and Casteluzzo
In the mountains overlooking the sea, Residence Cala Dell'Arena is definitely off the beaten path. To get to civilization (which includes area restaurants, a supermarket, and the beaches of Macari and San Vito lo Capo) you really need a car. Though the resort itself is located up a lovely stone and dirt road, travelers must cross a busy thoroughfare with fast-moving vehicles to get anywhere else beyond Cala Dell'Arena's borders, so walking is not the safest option.
Rooms
B&B rooms are colorful and clean, but villas need better upkeep or renovations
The rooms in the B&B section are minimalistic but colorful, with brightly painted walls, intricate tiles on the floors, rich wooden furniture, and clean private bathrooms. While the villas have terraces and full kitchens, they are in need of some serious refurbishment and new cooking utensils, and could be kept cleaner (ironic, as guests have to pay a housekeeping fee). The decor is sparse and often mismatched. The non-potable water is also a hassle.
Features
A pool with a view, breakfast on the terrace, pets are welcome
The pool is the property's central gathering point thanks to its striking sea views and its spacious surrounding deck with sun loungers for guests. Breakfast is served on the terrace above the pool and it usually includes juices and authentic Sicilian cakes. The Cala dell'Arena is one of the few pet-friendly properties in the San Vito lo Capo area, and those who can't bear to leave their furry friends at home will appreciate the open pet policy (limited to one animal per room). There's a slightly worn clay tennis court and a playground.
