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Summary of reviewsThe Grand Hotel Palau enjoys a prime location that serves as an excellent base for exploring Palau and the Maddalena Archipelago. Located minutes from the harbor, the hotel offers breathtaking panoramic views of the bay, port and La Maddalena, which can be enjoyed from the rooms and large terraces. The hotel's strategic placement above the town ensures a tranquil atmosphere while providing easy access to local attractions, restaurants, shops and beaches on foot. This optimal positioning makes it ideal for both relaxation and adventure in Sardinia.
The breakfast experience at Grand Hotel Palau is generally praised for being rich, varied and plentiful with options such as fresh fruit, yogurt, cereals, bread, croissants and scrambled eggs. Guests particularly enjoy having breakfast on the terrace with stunning sea views. Although there are some critiques regarding the cost and occasional issues with variety and refills, the overall consensus points towards a satisfying breakfast experience, enhanced by the beautiful setting.
In terms of dining, while the hotel does not offer lunch or dinner services, it has a restaurant and nightclub called "Upper." Guests appreciate the regional cuisine and often return to the hotel with cutting boards to enjoy in their rooms or on the terrace. The staff is also helpful in providing dining recommendations and arranging private excursions, enhancing guests' overall experience.
Guests generally find the rooms clean, well-furnished and newly refurbished with fantastic views. Daily cleaning and comfortable settings are often praised, although there are some concerns about room size, noise levels and outdated furniture. The staff's responsiveness in addressing complaints and offering room changes is appreciated.
Cleanliness receives mixed feedback; many guests describe rooms and common areas as spotlessly clean, while others report issues such as dust, mold and superficial cleaning. Despite these varied experiences, the dedication of the cleaning staff is recognized.
The hotel's staff is frequently highlighted for their friendliness, helpfulness and attentiveness. Reception staff, especially Elia, receive numerous commendations for their professionalism and thoughtful advice on local attractions. Overall, the staff’s courteousness, multilingual abilities and proactive approach contribute significantly to guest satisfaction.
Wi-Fi service at the hotel has received mixed reviews. Many guests find it satisfactory, noting good connectivity in certain areas of the hotel, while others experience issues with weak or unreliable connections in their rooms.
The hotel’s proximity to stunning beaches and great restaurants makes it an excellent base for beach enthusiasts. Though the nearest beach requires a steep walk, the spectacular views and helpful staff providing beach essentials contribute to a pleasant beach-centric stay.
Parking is a mix of convenience and challenge with free parking available but sometimes limited during high season. The hotel's steep slope and occasional lack of elevator access add to the difficulty, particularly when carrying luggage.
Families find the hotel accommodating with family-friendly rooms, including options like bunk beds and baby cots. The spacious accommodations and quiet environment make it a suitable destination for family vacations.
The comfort of the beds garners mixed feedback with some guests enjoying comfortable bedding and darkened rooms conducive to good sleep, while others find the mattresses too hard and the pillows thin.
While the Grand Hotel Palau is marketed as a four-star establishment, many guests feel it falls short of this standard, more accurately describing it as a two or three-star facility. Despite this, positive aspects like its prime location, friendly staff and pleasant views make it a worthwhile choice for many visitors. Show more
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Categories
Hotel near The Beach
Family Friendly Hotel
Dog Friendly Hotel
Hotel with Parking
4-Star Hotel
Room Types
Double or Twin RoomFeaturing free WiFi, this spacious air-conditioned room includes a flat-screen TV. The private bathroom has a hairdryer, slippers, and free toiletries.
Family Room with Sea ViewFeaturing free WiFi, this spacious air-conditioned room includes a flat-screen TV. The private bathroom has a hairdryer, slippers, and free toiletries.
Quadruple RoomFeaturing free WiFi, this spacious air-conditioned room includes a flat-screen TV. The private bathroom has a hairdryer, slippers, and free toiletries.
Double Room with Sea ViewProviding free toiletries, this double room includes a private bathroom with a shower, a bidet and a hairdryer. The air-conditioned double room provides a flat-screen TV, a private entrance, soundproof walls, a wardrobe as well as sea views. The unit offers 1 bed.
Double Room with Balcony and Sea ViewThis air-conditioned double room features a private bathroom, a private entrance, soundproof walls as well as a terrace. The unit offers 1 bed.
About Grand Hotel Palau
License: F3713, IT090054A1000F3713
Guest Reviews
7.4
Good
Location
The Grand Hotel Palau boasts an exceptional location that makes it an ideal base for exploring the coastal town of Palau and the Maddalena Archipelago. Positioned just minutes away from the harbor, guests can easily reach the port for daily excursions, ferry rides and boat tours to the scenic islands. The hotel’s elevated site provides breathtaking panoramic views of the bay, port and La Maddalena, which can be enjoyed from the rooms and the large terraces.
This historic center is conveniently within walking distance, allowing visitors to explore the local attractions, restaurants, shops and beaches with ease. The strategic placement above the town ensures a tranquil atmosphere, while still granting quick access on foot to the bustling heart of Palau. Guests highlight the beautiful hillside and beachfront settings, appreciating the serene and picturesque environment.
Whether for a short stay or a longer vacation, the Grand Hotel Palau is frequently praised for its optimal positioning. It offers stunning sea and harbor vistas, making it a perfect spot for both relaxation and adventure in Sardinia.
Breakfast
The breakfast experience at Grand Hotel Palau elicits a range of responses from guests with both commendable and critical aspects noted in the reviews. The positive remarks laud the breakfast for being rich, varied and plentiful, often highlighting items like fresh fruit, yogurt, cereals, bread, croissants, cold cuts, scrambled eggs and an assortment of both sweet and savory options. Many guests were particularly pleased with the option to enjoy breakfast on the terrace, which offers stunning views of the sea and Palau harbor, adding a serene start to the day. A number of guests appreciated the attentive staff and the overall quality, describing the breakfast as very good by Italian standards and even top-notch.
However, there are consistent criticisms about the cost of breakfast, which many guests found to be too high relative to the value offered. Some reviews mention the limited variety and repetitive nature of the offerings with certain items being industrial and pre-packaged, akin to supermarket goods. There are also mentions of inadequate refilling of breakfast items and poor organization, causing delays and shortages. Despite these drawbacks, the general consensus points towards a satisfying breakfast experience, particularly enhanced by the lasting impression of the beautiful terrace view.
Dinner
Grand Hotel Palau boasts a prime location close to downtown, making it convenient for guests to explore the local dining scene. Although the hotel doesn't offer lunch or dinner services, it has a restaurant and nightclub called "Upper," ideal for those seeking nightlife entertainment. Guests often return to the hotel in the evening after dining out with the regional cuisine still offering delicious Italian flavors. For those who wish to enjoy food within the hotel premises, the excellent cutting boards available can be enjoyed in one's room or on the terrace with stunning sea views. While the hotel lacks typical restaurant facilities and has limited communal space, the staff provide helpful recommendations and can arrange bespoke private excursions, enhancing the overall experience.
Rooms
The rooms at Grand Hotel Palau receive a variety of feedback from guests. Many highlight that the rooms are clean, well-furnished, newly refurbished and offer fantastic views, particularly of the sea and La Maddalena Archipelago. Spacious rooms and large terraces are appreciated with some rooms also equipped with modern amenities and pleasant décor. Daily cleaning and comfortable settings are often complimented.
However, there are significant areas where improvements are suggested. A recurring issue is the small size of the rooms, which some guests find cramped and lacking practical storage solutions. Noise levels from both inside and outside the hotel are frequently mentioned with several remarks on poor soundproofing. The condition of some rooms is described as outdated with old or broken furniture and signs of wear and tear. Cleanliness issues, such as mold in showers and unpleasant odors, are noted by a few visitors.
Some reviews indicate inconsistencies between the advertised room descriptions and actual conditions upon arrival, leading to dissatisfaction. Views from certain rooms, especially those facing non-scenic areas like parking lots or construction sites, are also points of contention. Finally, amenities such as sufficient pillows, minibars with water and kettle availability are highlighted as missing or inadequate in some instances. Despite these issues, the staff's responsiveness in addressing complaints and offering room changes is appreciated by guests.
Beds
The bed situation at Grand Hotel Palau has garnered mixed feedback from guests. Many have found the beds to be quite comfortable, noting comfortable bedding and often well-darkened rooms, which can be conducive to a good night's sleep. Some guests appreciated the addition of fresh bedding and towels provided daily, adding a touch of neatness and freshness to their stay.
However, there are significant concerns regarding the overall quality and comfort of the beds. A recurring theme is the hardness of the mattresses with several guests describing them as hard and uncomfortable. Pillows also received criticism, frequently described as thin and lacking in comfort. Occasional comments pointed out beds being too narrow with some even remarking on visible wear, such as old spring mattresses and broken bed headboards.
While some guests enjoyed very comfortable beds, it’s clear that the experience can vary, suggesting that bed quality might be inconsistent across different rooms. Though there's potential for a comfy stay, improved mattress quality and better pillow options would likely enhance the overall guest experience at Grand Hotel Palau.
Cleanliness
Guests have expressed a mixed experience regarding the cleanliness of the Grand Hotel Palau. On one hand, numerous reviews highlight the positive aspects such as rooms and common areas being kept clean and tidy with descriptions like "spotlessly clean," "impeccable cleanliness," and "excellent cleanliness." Daily housekeeping services and thorough room cleaning have been appreciated by many, contributing to an overall impression of a well-maintained establishment.
However, other reviews point out areas that need improvement. Guests reported issues like dust, mold, cracked tiles and outdated facilities that did not align with the clean standards expected. Instances of superficial cleaning and occasional lapses in daily upkeep were noted, leading to varying experiences depending on individual rooms and specific areas within the hotel.
The hotel’s consistent yet varied cleanliness standards suggest that while some guests enjoyed an immaculate stay, others encountered inconsistencies that impacted their overall satisfaction. Despite its challenges, the dedication of the cleaning staff was recognized and the core facilities largely managed to meet basic cleanliness expectations for many visitors.
Staff
Guest reviews of 'Grand Hotel Palau' overwhelmingly highlight the exceptional quality of the hotel's staff. The team is frequently described as very friendly, helpful and attentive with many reviews praising their kindness and warm smiles. The reception staff in particular receive numerous commendations for their accommodating and welcoming demeanor, ensuring that check-in is quick and queries are handled efficiently. Guests appreciate the staff's readiness to resolve issues promptly and their deep concern for the quality of their stay.
A recurring mention is Elia at the reception, who guests feel goes above and beyond with his professionalism, enthusiasm and thoughtful advice on local attractions and restaurants. Elia's dedication to customer care stands out, making him a memorable figure for many visitors. Overall, the hotel's staff are noted for their courteousness, multilingual abilities and proactive approach in making guests feel at home. Despite a few isolated comments on inattentiveness, the general consensus underscores a team that is committed to providing a welcoming and pleasant experience.
Wi-Fi
The guest reviews for Grand Hotel Palau provide a mixed but generally positive overview of the hotel's Wi-Fi service. Many guests mentioned that the Wi-Fi was good or very good, pointing out that it worked well in certain areas of the hotel. Some even described the internet as great and a few noted that the Wi-Fi worked 100% during their stay.
However, there were also several reports of issues, including weak or non-existent Wi-Fi in the rooms with some guests experiencing unreliable or failing internet connections. A few visitors highlighted that the Wi-Fi only worked intermittently or was functional for limited periods. Despite these challenges, the general consensus leans towards a positive experience with the hotel's internet service, although it may not be uniformly reliable across all areas of the hotel.
Beach
Nestled in the cozy town of Palau, Grand Hotel Palau offers a prime location for beach enthusiasts. The hotel enjoys proximity to many stunning beaches and great restaurants, making it a convenient base for exploring the area. The nearest beach, although about 600 meters and a steep walk away, is accessible within a five-minute stroll. Guests find it easy to travel to various beaches and nearby cities, facilitated by close access to ferries, which also enable trips to the beautiful Maddalena Archipelago.
Palau’s central location allows for seamless exploration of the Emerald Coast and the picturesque beaches within a few kilometers. The hotel’s staff enhance the experience by providing beach essentials like umbrellas and offering excellent advice on the best beach destinations, including places in Alghero.
While the walk to the nearest beach can be challenging for some, the breathtaking views and beautiful surroundings make it worth the effort. The Grand Hotel Palau's convenient location and helpful staff make it an ideal spot for a beach-centric getaway, allowing visitors to soak in the natural beauty and vibrant atmosphere of this Mediterranean gem.
Parking
Guest reviews for Grand Hotel Palau highlight mixed experiences regarding parking. On the positive side, many visitors appreciated the availability of free parking, often mentioning convenient spots directly in front of the hotel or nearby. Some reviews noted that there were plenty of free parking spaces around the hotel with options to park both on the street and at designated lots. These guests found it easy to park their vehicles and appreciated the convenience.
However, numerous reviews also pointed out significant challenges. During the high season, parking can become problematic with spots being limited and difficult to secure, especially in the evening. There are only a few dedicated parking spaces available at the hotel and sometimes these come with an extra charge. The hotel is located on a steep slope, which adds to the difficulty, particularly when no elevator access is available.
Some guest experiences revealed that parking was not only limited but also sometimes unsafe or inconvenient. The parking lot could be challenging to navigate and some areas lacked proper spaces altogether. This was particularly troublesome for motorcyclists, who noted specific issues with safely parking their bikes. Additionally, there were mentions of having to carry luggage due to the absence of assistance or lift access to and from the parking areas.
Overall, while there are ample mentions of free and convenient parking, the consistency and availability of these spaces vary, especially during busier times. Visitors are advised to plan for potential parking difficulties and consider the seasonal demand and hotel layout.
Family
Grand Hotel Palau is a favorable destination for families looking for a comfortable and accommodating stay. The hotel offers family-friendly rooms with some equipped with bunk beds and baby cots complete with sheets. The spacious accommodations, such as the penthouse suite and the family room, provide ample space for families of four. Guests frequently commend the hotel's quiet environment, making it an ideal spot for family vacations. While the surcharge for breakfast is considered high, the overall family-oriented amenities and services contribute to a positive experience for families.
4 Star
Grand Hotel Palau, while marketed as a four-star establishment, generally falls short of expectations according to guest reviews. The most common sentiment is that the hotel is more accurately described as a two or three-star facility. Many guests highlighted that the amenities and services do not align with the standards typically associated with four-star hotels. Complaints frequently addressed the outdated and poorly maintained facilities, as well as a noticeable lack of essential services such as adequate cleaning staff and attention to detail. Critical feedback also touched on the small, inadequately furnished rooms and the overall lack of quality service that one would expect from a hotel of this claimed caliber. The building itself was described as old and noisy, further detracting from the promised luxurious experience. Overall, the consensus suggests that Grand Hotel Palau does not deliver the four-star experience it advertises.
Business
Grand Hotel Palau offers a quiet environment ideal for business travelers. It provides ample Wi-Fi coverage and good internet connectivity throughout the hotel, although some reviews did mention occasional issues with connection. The hotel features a business center and well-equipped conference rooms, complete with numerous outlets and presentation boards, making it suitable for meetings and work sessions. Additionally, the rooms with terraces offer impressive views of the harbor and sea, providing a pleasant backdrop for a short business stay.
Accessible
Grand Hotel Palau offers a mixed experience when it comes to accessibility for guests with disabilities. Convenient car access and street parking options, including accessible and free parking near the hotel, enhance its appeal. However, the hotel faces significant challenges due to its lack of an elevator and the frequent issues with existing ones. Guests with mobility impairments may find the numerous stairs, lack of working elevators and the uphill walk from the town center quite daunting. Additionally, challenging access points for strollers and wheelchairs make it less suitable for those with walking difficulties. The convenient location near shops and activities may appeal to some, but the dated structure and insufficient facilities present hurdles for those relying on easy access.
Dog Friendly
Grand Hotel Palau offers a range of dog-friendly amenities and services that cater to guests traveling with their pets. The hotel is welcoming towards four-legged friends, allowing dogs on the premises and maintaining a pet-friendly environment. Guests have noted the lovely staff as being particularly accommodating, assisting with various needs including arranging boat excursions. Although there is a daily fee of €10 for pets, the hotel's suitable location and overall welcoming approach make it a pleasant choice for pet owners. It is recommended to discuss specific needs with the hotel in advance to ensure a smooth stay.
No, Grand Hotel Palau doesn't have any pool.
No, a spa isn't available at Grand Hotel Palau.
Yes, Grand Hotel Palau welcomes dogs.
Yes, parking facilities are available at Grand Hotel Palau.