Hotel Mara

This hotel is a classic beachfront property, highly regarded for its direct beach access and a tranquil setting that offers a relaxing escape. Its signature feature is its seamless integration with the sea, providing guests with a beautiful sandy beach right at their doorstep. The hotel is particularly well-suited for families with young children, thanks to its shallow, clean waters and dedicated amenities, and also appeals to couples seeking a peaceful and romantic getaway. Business travelers also find it convenient for work events due to its professional facilities. Guests consistently highlight the exceptional staff, comfortable accommodations, and high-quality dining. To make the most of your stay, consider requesting a sea-facing room to enjoy the views and minimize potential noise from the nearby railway, and be prepared for a club card fee for full access to beach and pool amenities.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel offers a range of well-maintained facilities designed for guest comfort and enjoyment. A prominent feature is the large, clean swimming pool with an ample solarium and a dedicated lifeguard, providing a refreshing alternative to the sea. There is also a separate, shallower pool for younger guests. The hotel provides a private, well-equipped sandy beach with umbrellas, sunbeds, and deckchairs, and guests appreciate the provision of beach towels. While most guests enjoy the pool, some note the water can be cold, and a swim cap is required for use. The hotel also features a well-stocked bar and bistrot directly on the beach, along with a spacious outdoor patio offering many spots for relaxation. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the property, ensuring guests remain connected.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Guests consistently praise the hotel's high standards of cleanliness, noting that rooms are spotless and well-maintained with daily cleaning and towel changes. The rooms are generally described as spacious, comfortable, and modern, often featuring wooden floors, independent air conditioning, a minibar, and a safe. Many rooms boast a balcony, with sea-facing options being particularly popular for their views. While the beds are widely reported as comfortable and wide, some guests found the bathrooms to be on the smaller side, though functional and recently renovated. A recurring theme is the potential for train noise from the nearby railway, especially for rooms not facing the sea, though external soundproofing is generally effective. Internal soundproofing between rooms, however, is sometimes noted as less effective.

Dining & Food Quality
The hotel's dining experience receives widespread acclaim, with many guests praising the excellent restaurant and its high-quality cuisine. The menu is varied, offering both fish and meat dishes, often with fresh ingredients and elaborate preparations, complemented by a rich buffet of appetizers, side dishes, and desserts. Dinner is often served by the poolside, creating a pleasant atmosphere. Breakfast is described as abundant and varied, featuring homemade cakes, cereals, and fruit, though some guests expressed a desire for more savory options like eggs or bacon. The bar and bistrot on the beach are also well-regarded for their quality and reasonable offerings, including pizza and fresh fruit salads, and a pokeria provides quick meal options.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel's prime beachfront location is a significant draw, offering direct access to a quiet, sandy beach just steps away. This makes it an ideal spot for those seeking a relaxing seaside holiday. However, many guests note that the hotel is situated in a somewhat isolated area, with no shops or other amenities within walking distance, necessitating the use of a car for exploration or errands. While it is located north of Ortona and a short drive from the scenic Trabocchi coast, some guests found the hotel difficult to find, especially after dark, due to limited lighting and confusing access roads. Ample internal parking is available, including some covered spots, though availability can be challenging during peak times.

Staff & Service
The hotel's staff consistently receives glowing reviews for their exceptional friendliness, professionalism, and attentiveness. Guests frequently highlight the helpfulness of the reception team, noting their efficiency during check-in and their willingness to assist with various requests. The restaurant staff are commended for their efficient and accommodating service, ensuring a pleasant dining experience. Housekeeping maintains high standards with daily room cleaning and towel changes. The lifeguards and beach staff are also praised for their presence and helpfulness. Overall, the staff's commitment to providing a welcoming and supportive environment is a recurring positive theme, contributing significantly to guests feeling at home and well-cared for throughout their stay.

Additional Information
Guests should be aware of the club card which is required for full access to the hotel's pool and beach facilities, and this comes with an additional charge. A unique aspect of the pool policy is the requirement to wear a swim cap, which some guests found amusing or unexpected. The hotel frequently organizes evening entertainment, including live music, shows, and themed dinners, such as a typical Abruzzese evening, which are generally well-received. However, a few guests felt there was a lack of consistent animation, particularly for children, and that evenings could be quiet after 9 PM. The hotel operates a 24-hour reception, and a late check-out option is available for an extra fee.