Colonna Beach Hotel

This hotel is celebrated for its breathtaking panoramic views of the Gulf of Aranci and Tavolara Island, offering a truly picturesque backdrop for a vacation. Its private beach access is a significant draw, providing guests with a beautiful stretch of white sand and crystal-clear waters. The vibrant animation team consistently receives high praise for their engaging yet non-intrusive approach, making the hotel an excellent fit for families seeking entertainment and activities, as well as couples looking for a lively atmosphere. Many guests highlight the friendly and attentive staff across various departments. To maximize your beach experience, it is advisable to understand the umbrella allocation system upon arrival, as early morning presence is often key to securing preferred spots.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel features multiple swimming pools, including a main pool that often hosts music and activities, and quieter areas for relaxation. A convenient shuttle service operates frequently throughout the day, transporting guests across the resort's hilly terrain to various points, including the beach, reception, and restaurants, which is particularly helpful for those with mobility concerns. While Wi-Fi is available, some guests reported inconsistencies in connectivity within their rooms. The on-site shop offers a limited selection of items, primarily clothing and sun care products, rather than convenience store essentials. The fitness center is noted by some as being poorly equipped with outdated or insufficient equipment, suggesting it may not meet the expectations of avid gym-goers.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Feedback on room comfort and cleanliness is mixed, with many guests noting that rooms, particularly those not recently renovated, can be dated and show signs of wear. Common issues reported include mold in bathrooms, non-functioning air conditioning or outdated units, and broken fixtures like shower doors or toilet flushes. While some rooms are described as spacious and offering sea views, the overall cleanliness is often perceived as superficial or inconsistent, with some guests finding dirty surfaces or unemptied bins upon arrival. Bed comfort generally receives positive remarks, though some mention hard pillows. Noise from evening entertainment can be audible in rooms located near the amphitheater, potentially impacting sleep for light sleepers.

Dining & Food Quality
The hotel's dining experience, primarily offered through a buffet restaurant, generally provides a wide variety of food options, including local Sardinian specialties, fresh fish, and pasta dishes. Many guests appreciate the abundance and choice available for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. However, a recurring concern is that hot items are often served lukewarm or cold. The main restaurant can become crowded and chaotic during peak hours, with tables sometimes placed very close together. While the quality of the ingredients is often praised, the overall preparation is sometimes described as basic or lacking distinct flavor. Drinks, including wine and beer, are typically included with meals for full-board guests.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel boasts a spectacular panoramic location overlooking the Gulf of Aranci, offering stunning views from various points across the property, including many rooms and dining areas. Its direct access to a beautiful private beach with clear, shallow waters is a major highlight. The hotel is conveniently located approximately 15-20 minutes from Olbia airport, making transfers relatively quick. However, the hotel's setting is quite remote, meaning there are no shops, restaurants, or public transport options within easy walking distance. Guests wishing to explore the surrounding area or visit nearby towns like Olbia or Porto Cervo are strongly advised to rent a car, as taxi services are noted as being very expensive.

Staff & Service
The staff generally receives high praise for their friendliness and helpfulness, contributing significantly to a positive guest experience. The animation team is consistently highlighted as a major asset, described as engaging, professional, and never intrusive, providing a wide range of activities and entertaining evening shows. Restaurant staff, including waiters and buffet attendants, are often commended for their attentiveness and efficiency. While many guests report positive interactions with the reception team, some experiences indicate slow check-in processes or a perceived lack of responsiveness to specific room issues. Beach staff and shuttle drivers are also frequently mentioned for their polite and accommodating service.

Additional Information
Guests should be aware of the VOI+ package, which offers benefits such as reserved beach umbrellas in prime rows, a feature that is not always clearly communicated upon booking or arrival and can lead to confusion regarding beach access. The hotel's beach umbrella policy operates on a first-come, first-served basis for non-VOI+ guests, often requiring early morning arrival to secure a spot. There is a notable absence of restroom facilities directly on the beach, requiring guests to walk back to the main hotel area. Some guests have noted issues with the water quality provided during meals, describing it as having a strong chlorine taste. The hotel's check-in process can be lengthy, with some guests experiencing significant wait times upon arrival.