Hotel Il Vascello

Petite and modest, the Hotel Il Vascello looks a lot like a traditional Sardinian house with two stories of lovely arches, a red-tiled roof, and and potted flowers lining the entrance. A big skylight floods the lobby and its bar with natural light, illuminating an airy space decorated with pale-blue and white walls, white leather couches, and modern art pieces. An adjacent covered area houses additional wicker seating, while its restaurant has indoor seating and an outdoor sheltered area overlooking the pool. There are no activities here, making for a serene, relaxing environment. The property primarily attracts Italian couples and families. 

The Hotel Il Vascello is located a seven-minute walk from a sandy beach, and the warm, shallow Mediterranean. The main Costa Rei beach is a seven-minute drive away. A handful of restaurants, supermarkets, beach bars, and shops are within a 10-minute walk, while the more bustling city center is a four-minute drive or 28-minute walk away. That said, there is not a ton of general interest in Costa Rei. There are a few small beach villages nearby, such as Cala Pira and Porta Molentis, but the nearest large town of any significance is Cagliari, a 60- to 70-minute drive away. Expect transfers to Cagliari Elmas Airport to take around 70 minutes by car.

The 20 rooms at the Hotel Il Vascello are small and simple, but fit the bill. Expect a Sardinian style of light-wood furniture, beige tile floors and walls, blue bedspreads, curtains, and seat cushions, and generic floral artwork. The overall look is underwhelming, but cheerful and well-maintained. Plus, all have glass doors leading to furnished terraces with views either of the garden or pool and distant ocean. All rooms have double beds, wardrobes with small safes, desks with stools, and small wall-mounted flat-screen TVs. Beige bathrooms have glass-wrapped rainfall shower stalls, bidets, hairdryers, and basic toiletries. Minibars, beach towels, floppy straw hats, and free Wi-Fi are provided, although some guests have complained about spotty coverage for the latter.

Amenities aren't extensive here, but they do include an attractive freeform pool with a large hot tub in a sunny terrace. The deck is lined with loungers, but no umbrellas, though there are tables and chairs set under gazebos. Unfortunately, there are no wellness facilities like a spa or gym. All rates include a well-reviewed continental buffet breakfast. The restaurant also serves modern takes on Sardinian cuisine for lunch and dinner. A lounge bar offers a variety of drinks all day and into the evening. Free Wi-Fi is provided throughout the hotel, but some guests report that it's finicky. Outdoor parking is free, and meeting spaces can be rented.