Hotel Club La Playa

“La Dolce Vita Here”

Hotel Club La Playa in Patti is described as "newly built" or "recently restructured." This suggests it doesn't have a deep historical past stretching back centuries like some other structures in Sicily. It is likely a 20th century re-boot thanks to its glorious location. From what I’ve observed, t… more

Hotel Club La Playa in Patti is described as "newly built" or "recently restructured." This suggests it doesn't have a deep historical past stretching back centuries like some other structures in Sicily. It is likely a 20th century re-boot thanks to its glorious location. From what I’ve observed, the property is well kept and clean. The facade is reminiscent of roman revival with fat spindled stairs leading to a front portico. Flowers adorn the white column caps and statues of Venus and entwined Lovers welcome you in. Once inside, details reminiscent of late century modern architecture peek out beyond the not-so-recently renovated window arches and lobby layout. I believe this hotel once had its heyday in the late 70’s and as time went on it transformed itself as many hotels do with the needs of its ever changing clientele. This property has the most magnificent views of the Tyrrhenian sea with the Eolian Isles proudly sharing the horizon and its location and landscape, I would kill to own. Luckily the building is refreshed with white stucco and wrought iron Juliette balconies stretched over the immense waters of the this Mediterranean jewel. This alone , forgives all of the unfortunate aging which the interior rooms are going through. Although maintenance and housekeeping does go on daily , it is at a bare minimum. No frills here. Almost all the rooms are sold as an “ all inclusive package” which includes Breakfast lunch and dinner. A simple beverage bar ( not including alcohol) is also hosted a few hours per day. I joined a weekend lunch from the all inclusive plan and was surprised to see so many locals who had booked three weekend days of this sun filled hotel/resort. I spoke to a few families who came from nearby Catania and they tell me that they come as a group every now and then during the summer to go share time and escape from their familial obligations. The food was served family style and you are seated at long community tables. 99% of the guests that day were Italians and Sicilians. We happened to find a small square and sat down. The staff was very helpful noticing us immediately as “Americani” lost in the woods. First plate was salami, cheese, prosciutto and olives served with good crusty bread. We had to get up and get our own pitcher of red or white wine and water. Condiments , such as olive oil or cheese were either absent or hard to find, however there were some vinegar packets and salt on the table. The guests were very friendly and would occasionally sprout a pop up announcement followed by wine driven chanting and words of appreciation for each-other. It all seemed very close knit and pleasant. We joined in the chanting and toasted along for whatever reason. It was a fun experience. Our main course was a tasting of two pastas which were local dishes of “Alla Norma” sauce and cream and prosciutto sauce . I have certainly had better but , …..when in Rome. A second plate arrived with a vegetable I can’t remember and a slice of well cooked veal.. or was it pork? Then came a few cut pieces of iceberg and endive lettuce which was well dressed. A bowl of local whole fruit followed. All in all it was , ok. I would not write it up for any criticism but it was good food and we were hungry after our drive from Palermo. The room was a bit overcrowded and the noise level was not convincing us to come back for dinner. We went to a local pizza place for that. All in all while touring the ancient ruins in and around the area in the few days we were at the hotel, we found ourselves saying, “Lets go back and relax at the hotel.” That is very telling of the simple comforts that were offered there. It is way off the grid and way gorgeous. The beach and the pool areas are amazing. Absolutely stunning. We met many of the staff who are attentive and generous and kind. If you’re looking for a place for some simple , lovely comforts and amazing people come here. It has million dollar views and beach. Depending on how busy they are ( lots of families) , you may not be guaranteed much quiet but worth the risk. We had the very large pool and beach to ourselves on a Monday. Prices are very good but follow the low level of accommodation in the rooms. There is a/c but the tv did not work on our room towels and toilet paper was not restocked fast enough so we had to snag it from a storage closet. I give this hotel four stars out of five just for its true grit in hanging on to this icon even though many adjacent properties have gone under. This place has pride and untamed beauty - worth the trip ! I am glad we came . * Location: It is located on the beach of Marina di Patti, in front of the Aeolian Islands, just below the ancient Greek colony of Tindari. This means while the hotel itself isn't ancient, it's situated in an area rich with historical significance. * Patti's rich history: The town of Patti itself has a long and fascinating history, dating back to the 4th century BC when it was founded by the Greeks. It has been ruled by various civilizations, including Romans, Arabs, Normans, and Spanish. Historical landmarks in Patti include: * The Cathedral of San Bartolomeo, dating back to the 12th century. * Ancient ruins from the nearby archaeological site of Tyndaris, which includes a Roman theatre, temples, and a sanctuary. * A Roman Villa with well-preserved mosaics. * The Castello di Patti, an ancient fortress built by the Normans in the 11th century. While Hotel Club La Playa itself doesn't appear to have specific historical events tied directly to its own building, its location in Patti places it within a region steeped in millennia of history, offering guests easy access to numerous ancient sites and cultural heritage.

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