While we enjoyed our time at Villasimius, the Cruccuris 'resort' was a little disappointing. However, there are a few points that I wish I'd known before booking:

* 'resort' - it's not, really. It's a hotel with two pools.

* 'four-star' - while it may have sufficient amenities to meet some specific definition of 'four-star' (or indeed, they may have simply awarded that rating to themselves, as so many hotels do) it's not a four star experience. The rooms, while clean and large, are bare and unwelcoming (think UK TravelLodge with french windows!) and like the rest of the hotel, could really do with a significant update.

* 'access to private beach' - the same company have another hotel with a private beach, which Cruccuris guests are promised access to. Unfortunately, unlike many other hotel chains, this isn't complimentary - it costs €15 per person, per day, meaning it's not really a perk at all, given there are many other hotels and beaches in the area offering a similar opportunity for the same or less.

* the wifi - costs €3 for 30 minutes.

* the restaurant - is erratic. Some of the dishes are really good, while others are surprisingly poor. A particular low point, however, is the wine list. We had to spend €40 (the most expensive white available) to get something approaching pleasant, which even then was way worse than you'd get for a tenner in the Italian section at Tesco. In addition, the rose prosecco on their list has the unfortunate distinction of being the single worst bottle I've experienced in many years.

* the staff - on the whole pleasant, although sometimes the level of service is poor, especially from the receptionists, who couldn't really be bothered to help a lot of the time.


All in all, as I said, we enjoyed our stay, although this was probably more to do with the weather and the fantastic beaches around the area, than the hotel. I wouldn't consider returning.

My wife and I have stayed at Crucurris for three years , and the level of service we have gotten and the memories we have retained are overwhelmingly pleasant. What does one want on vacation? To have a sanctuary to rest and recoup lost enthusiasm? To have your needs anticipated, and if requests are made (or things break for instance) to have them rectified immediately by an accommodating and friendly staff? To be able to bike, to explore new beaches, restaurants, to climb mountains, to read, and not to be troubled in any way? To practice (or perhaps inflict) your Italian on those quite willing to listen? If you are looking for ready made entertainment, flat screen TVs, or being ferried around, perhaps Crucurris is not for you. But if you want a place where the two of you can concentrate on each other in an impeccably maintained setting, and forget the rest of the world exists, then I have found few better places. Maurizio and his team should be congratulated for keeping the high standards and for the friendly warm welcome we have received year after year. It should be noted that we do not have half board, as we prefer to explore, and that as such a car is essential. I would echo other comments not to bother with going to the sister beach hotel. There are plenty of other beaches which are secluded and perfect. If you are into it, climbing the mountains behind the hotel are a wonderful way to start the day, or hiring the mountain bikes (which have steadily improved each year). Crucurris is a place, one of very few, to which we return again, and again, and again. Like next year, if possible.

One of the nicest resorts ever. Beautifully designed buildings, gardens and pools, superb views on mountains and sea. Very friendly and helpful staff.

Perfect for a relaxing holiday by the pool with good food and excellent service throughout the Hotel.