Just returned from a week's stay at this hotel. Over all a pleasant experience - in particular I would highly praise the reception and waiting staff....very pleasant, helpful and couteous.
The room was ok - a bit on the dark side as was the terrace which felt a bit hemmed in by the privacy of the hedging....but not as bad as the rooms on the side of the building where terraces literally 'looked out' on to a wall of high hedge....very dark and dismal looking. The best, of course were those with garden views....but at a much higher price.
In keeping with the rest of Forte dei Marmi, the Villa Roma Imperiale is not a cheap option either to stay or dine. Had one meal only in the hotel and for 2 mains, a half bottle of wine and water....totalled 53 Euros! Portions weren't particularly satisfying either. Breakfast ok - lots of fruit, cakes and bread.
The location of the hotel is about a 15 minutes stroll into the town and on the flat - so quite pleasant. The nearest railway station is 4kms - if you want door to door service, a taxi will set you back 15/20 euros each way....otherwise catch the once an hour Viabus from the Piazza Mateolli @ 3.20 euros return. Easy to access places like Pisa and Lucca (change at Viareggio) and very reasonably prices by train.
By mid September quite a few places are already closing down for the winter, so selection of restaurants a bit more limited - need to check each day, who is open. If you like great pizzas Freddies is the place in the Piazza Garibaldi....and if your budget can stretch the way - Bistrot, on the promenade will do lovely seafood options. 2 mains and a half bottle of wine + water = 100 euros.
If you dont want to pay for your beach access in the centre of the promenade - about a few kms north of the town there is plenty of free beach/access to the sea and some eateries too.
Staying at the VRI has many good features, but there are also some downsides with the location, vis a vis transport (if you dont have your own). If you can, I'd recommend a garden view room with balcony or terrrace.
- Hotel Roma Imperiale
- Roma Imperiale Hotel
