We just returned from our experience at Popilia this weekend (March 7-8).
We had a SPA dinner and an overnight stay...
Let's start with the positives, and it's not to be underestimated, as there were many.
Starting with the breathtaking walkway, the very well-maintained facility, and in fact, the aesthetics of the interior and exterior would have been five stars for me...
After the two-hour spa, I must unfortunately say that was one of the sore points... The spa was certainly well done, but not completely... Let me explain...
The pool area is very narrow, and the thing that bothered us was that there were too many people in an otherwise fairly small facility, but let's move on...
Dinner after the spa and breakfast the next day were average, with certainly affordable prices. A special mention goes to the first courses at the on-site restaurant, where I really enjoyed the small plate I ordered with squid ink.
As for the breakfast, it was adequate but lacking in choice, and above all, I was annoyed to see that, for example, we had to make our own cappuccino using the machine provided. If a guest comes and sleeps overnight at the hotel, breakfast should be a very important matter, with meticulous attention to detail.
Let's move on to the negatives (besides the spa), which prompted us to give it 3 stars.
After dinner, unfortunately, there was nothing to do, no games room or anything to entertain ourselves, and it's a shame, as the place is located on a hill, making it difficult to get around in the evening. I understand the need for tranquility, but perhaps for younger guests, having a recreational/play area for the evening (such as a games room) would have been helpful. This is more of a recommendation than a criticism.
The outdoor areas are very nice, but even there, it's a bit lacking because you can get bored after a while, as the entire place can be explored in about an hour. It's true that there are activities, including tennis, soccer, and a fitness area, but I repeat, at least on weekends, there should be something recreational after dinner. It's certainly not disruptive or invasive, but at least for those who want to spend the evening/night, it could be a good idea.
The rooms were excellent, very clean, and the temperature was comfortable. The overall price was affordable. Overall, an experience worth repeating. I'd like to point out that these aren't criticisms, but rather recommendations.
Angelo scozzafava
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10 Marzo 2026
6,0
A little off the beaten path but we'll worth staying there. Excellent views
Sam Campisi
.
07 Marzo 2026
10,0
Everything was excellent and perfect, from the spa to the restaurant. The only flaw was the poor soundproofing of the farmhouse rooms and the meager, bland breakfast.
Sebastian Giordano
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27 Febbraio 2026
8,0
The location is beautiful, the staff is qualified and very friendly. The spa is also very good (the central pool is a bit small, however). The three stars are given because the food and beverage service is the main factor: a facility like this should have much higher quality standards. The dishes are very standard, none of which had any particular or distinctive flavor. This is certainly a significant aspect that needs improvement.
Daniele Notaro
.
20 Febbraio 2026
6,0
The first time we stayed here, we were curious and took advantage of the "bed, dinner, and spa" package. We were so pleased with the price (very affordable) and the dinner at the restaurant that we gladly returned for Valentine's Day. We again preferred to stay in the bungalow. A year later, the quality of the service and dinner hasn't changed at all. The staff is always very kind and ready to accommodate every request. We always recommend it to family and friends.
Carmine Filippelli
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17 Febbraio 2026
10,0
A beautiful, well-organized, and high-quality property: from the rooms to the restaurant and breakfast, to the spa. Professional, attentive, and always available staff.
Antonio Catalano
.
16 Febbraio 2026
10,0
Business trip.
Very nice place, excellent service, and super competitive prices during less crowded periods.
I'd like to offer a piece of advice (hoping it'll be accepted). During my stay, in the morning (when the room opened), due to an unexpected event, breakfast was very low. When I mentioned this to reception, they explained that there had been a problem with a waiter (perhaps an accident). This didn't change my rating, which I wanted to leave 5 stars. My advice is this:
If it happens again, don't wait for the guest to ask why the breakfast is poor. Be the one to clarify, because I asked and I'm sorry. Someone else, perhaps more timid, won't do it and think it's a habit, and maybe they won't return. I'll return in a month with the hope of receiving a breakfast worthy of a 4-star hotel.
Claudio Randazzo
.
29 Gennaio 2026
10,0
This charming location, surrounded by greenery, is nestled in the hills of Vibo Valentia, in the municipality of Maierato. Excellent value for money. Delicious Calabrian cuisine. Excellent products and ingredients used. Excellent service. The spa is well worth it.
ALDO BLANDO
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06 Gennaio 2026
10,0
Beautiful resort on the hill, not far from the sea.
Michele Abenante
.
05 Dicembre 2025
10,0
A charming place, with incredibly kind and impeccable staff. We had a very intimate wedding at Popilia. The owner was incredibly kind and helpful, and the wedding planner who manages the weddings at the property, Merilù, made our wedding unique and special. She was available for discussions and planning, and immediately put us at ease. I highly recommend this resort because it is well-maintained and takes great care of its guests.
Simona Tumminello
.
13 Novembre 2025
10,0