The hype
Guests are universally dazzled by the location and views, but often underwhelmed by the dated room furniture and hard beds.
Hotel Residence Il Porto
$120-250/ night
Book this if You want a romantic, view-drenched escape in Puglia where you can sip wine on a terrace overlooking the Adriatic without paying Positano prices.
Why People Love It
- Breathtaking panoramic views of Mattinata Bay from almost every angle
- The infinity pool that feels like it drops straight into the sea
- Terrazza Blu Mare restaurant serves genuinely excellent local seafood
Quick Take: The views are world-class and the staff is lovely, but the beds are stiff as boards and you're not actually on the beach.
Reviewed by @TravelWithRosa: I came here to disconnect and it worked perfectly. The drive up through the olive trees sets the tone, and the view from my terrace was just endless blue. It's quiet, secluded, and exactly the reset I needed.
Guest Who Stayed Here Said
Reality check
You'll spend all your time at the pool or restaurant because the rooms themselves are just 'okay' for sleeping.
- You have a car and want a base to explore the Gargano coast
- You prioritize a stunning view over modern room decor
- You enjoy a quiet, hilltop atmosphere away from the town center noise
Cleanliness & Maintenance
9.2
- Housekeeping: Daily service is reliable and thorough; guests rarely complain about missed spots.
- Bathroom hygiene: Sparkling clean, though fixtures in some rooms are dated.
- Maintenance: Grounds are manicured perfectly; rooms show some wear (scuffed furniture, older tiles).
- Linens & towels: Clean and crisp, though towels can be a bit thin/scratchy compared to luxury standards.
- Odors & scents: Fresh sea air; no musty smells reported.
Sleepability™
6MODERATE
0-4LOUD
4-7.5MODERATE
7.5-10SILENT
- Neighbors walking on the shared terrace walkway
- Thin walls between connecting rooms
Before you book
Good to know
- The hotel is on a steep hill; walking to town is possible but a hike back up
- City tax is ~€2.50 per person/night, payable at checkout
- The 'fitness center' is virtually non-existent; plan to run outside
What to pack
- A mattress topper if you are sensitive to hard beds (seriously)
- Mosquito repellent for evenings on the terrace
- Pool slides for the concrete pool deck
Room Genie
Best picks
- Orchidea Junior Suite — the only room with a truly private balcony
- Double Flat — offers more privacy and space than standard rooms
Rooms to avoid
- Standard rooms on the ground floor if you hate people walking past your window
- Rooms near the restaurant kitchen if you are sensitive to noise/smells
Room Request Genie – copy & paste
“I am booking a stay and would love to request the 'Orchidea Junior Suite' for the private balcony. If not available, please assign a room at the far end of the shared terrace for maximum privacy.”
FAQ & Hidden tips
Everything you actually want to know before you book.
Is the pool heated?
No, it is a refreshing outdoor pool. Perfect for July/August, chilly in May/October.
Is there a gym?
Technically yes, but it's minimal. Treat the nearby hiking trails as your gym.
How do I get to the beach?
The hotel runs a shuttle to a partner beach (approx. 2km away), or you can drive. Parking at the beach is usually free with the partner pass.
Is breakfast included?
Yes, and it's a highlight—fresh pastries, local cheeses, and fruit served on the terrace.
Can I bring my dog?
Yes, pets are allowed for a fee of €10/day, but they aren't allowed in the pool area.
Is there Wi-Fi?
Yes, free Wi-Fi is available, though signal strength can be spotty in the stone-walled rooms.
Insider Tips
- ✨
Ask for a room *away* from the pool if you want to nap in the afternoon.
- ✨
The hotel has a resident cat (sometimes with kittens) that hangs around the garden—great for cat lovers.
- ✨
Buy your own wine in town and enjoy it on the terrace; the bar prices are higher than local shops.
5 things to know before you go
💡The 'terrace' for most rooms is a shared walkway, meaning zero privacy if you leave your curtains open.
💡The beach shuttle is convenient, but you still have to pay for the sunbeds at the destination.
💡The shower pressure is excellent, often better than luxury hotels nearby.
💡You will need a car to explore; taxis in Mattinata are scarce and expensive.
💡The dinner menu at Terrazza Blu Mare is actually worth the splurge—try the local troccoli pasta.
Local Playbook
Map
See where Hotel Residence Il Porto is located and what's nearby.