Your description of the Hotel Ducale sounded too good to be true, and I felt being cousins, you were biased in your opinions. However, you did give more information than most hotel sites for Cattolica, and I thought if its good enough for the Yanks, its good enough for the Brits. I booked by Internet, and confirmation was received by e-mail. We went in September, because we do not like the very hot weather in July and August. The weather was perfect in the upper 70's F. We arrived at the Hotel and was pleased to see it was situated in a perfect position, close to the Beach, Market, Shops, Transport and the Town pedestrian area. Franco, the owner and his son Frederico welcomed us and Frederico showed us to our room. Our first impression was how clean and tidy everything was, and the layout of the Hotel was well thought out and planned. Our Room overlooked the sea, and I noticed that most rooms had some sort of a view of the sea. The beds were comfortable and clean, and the linen was changed regularly as were the bathroom towels. It was good to actually have a shower that worked (our experience in other Mediterranean places has been drippy showers and poor waste drainage). No such problems here. Although we did not use it, all rooms had Air conditioning. The best value, however, was the cuisine. How Franco and his wife could feed us for under $3 approximately, and provide three good courses, is beyond me. Especially as the hotel food was every bit as good a local restaurants, who charged up 6 times as much. The main courses consisted of Veal, Lamb, Chicken, Beef, and several kinds of Fish (Mussels, Prawn, Calamari, and some white flesh fish including Angler Fish which was delicious) During our stay, we got to know the Family very well, and had many conversations, over a drink on the terrace, with them, about all sorts of topics. It was interesting to learn that despite different cultures, we parents all share the same experiences when raising families. Very few Hotels have swimming pools because of the closeness of the sea. The Ducale pool was of a good size and very clean with ample sun beds and chairs. An ideal place to read a book in the sun. The whole family made us welcome and at home, and when we left, we thought we detected Franco wiping away a tear. He is a lovely man and he has a friendly family. We must agree with your website comments. All you say is true, and we are planning to go back next year with our Daughter and her family. Because apart from the hospitality and friendliness at the Hotel Ducale, Cattolica is a wonderful holiday location. There is so much to do and see. Never a dull moment. We can honestly say this was one of our best holidays, and would recommend it to anyone who values Cleanliness, Hospitality, Good Food, and value for money. If you wish, you may add this letter to your testimonial file."
Best regards Bill Wade, England  

Having visited the hotel in September, my wife and I enjoyed it so much we returned in June the following year with our Daughter, Son in Law and two Grandsons. We told them they would have a wonderful time and that Cattolica and the Hotel Ducale was the place to be for family holidays. The problem with recommending holidays, especially to family, is that it is not always possible to know 100% what they are looking for.  We need not have worried, because Franco and the Boys, made them very welcome and treated them as part of the family, as they had with us the previous September. Our Grandsons, in particular were very well treated, and Franco was only too pleased to accommodate any special needs at meal times. Young Children of 7 and 4 years of age are not into visiting old Cities and Art centres. But they are into sandy beaches, shallow warm water, Hotel pool, Theme parks such as Mirabilandia, Fiabilandia, Aquafan, and all the evening activities on the streets of Cattolica. My family have been to Florida and done the Disney thing, but they stated this holiday was the best they had had, and would certainly be coming back for more.  
Best regards  Bill Wade, England 

It was a total family experience. You can feel how welcome you are the minute you walk through the door. It’s the people who make it such a wonderful place; the warm, friendly smiles every time you sit down for a meal. Did I mention the food? You can’t ask for a better variety of fresh, delicious entrees with a bottle of wine with every meal. It seemed like all we did was - sleep until we were hungry and eat until we were tired - a perfect vacation. We can’t wait to come back to the best-hidden secret. Thank you again for such a wonderful time. 
Michael & Jenny Lohan, Maryland, USA

Everyone was so nice to all of us and very helpful with any information we needed. It’s been wonderful to meet all of you. 
Rose Etzel, Pennsylvania, USA

Our experience at the Ducale Hotel was definitely a positive one. Everyone was helpful in every way. We are already planning a return trip for next summer. And we will by staying at the Hotel Ducale. We especially enjoyed the hospitality at the Ducale and the old world charm of the hotel. The food was great as well. The pool was clear and clean. We absolutely loved the beach and the fact that we had assigned beach chairs for the week. We will probably never go to the New Jersey beaches again. Venice was breathtaking and the flowers are everywhere. The gondola ride was wonderful. 
Linda, Tony & Liz Etzel, Pennsylvania, USA 

Our stay at the Hotel Ducale has been a very happy one, and we regard it as the best holiday ever. We have been very fortunate to meet many people from all around the globe, and were amazed at how we all were made into one big happy family. We have cherished every moment of our stay, and like all families unhappy when it was time for us to part. For our family this is one place that we shall repeat coming to year after year. The food here at the hotel was that of first class standard and the service equal class. Franco and his family are a credit to the country. Many thanks. 
James & Tina Ellis, Essex, England

The hotel, hotel staff, and the town and town people of Cattolica far exceed any expectations we had. We have traveled to a number of countries and to various states in the USA, but we have never enjoyed any stay more than the Ducale. Franco, our host and Ombretta, our hostess are the best! Our sincerest thanks. We have never returned to a place we’ve vacationed, but will be back to the Ducale. 
Randy & Gae Mork, California USA

 A wonderful family hotel one block from the sea in the beautiful, coastal town of Cattolica. Helpful, friendly staff with delicious Italian “family style” meals. A quaint beach resort with plazas and squares for easy access to boutiques. The shopping is great and gelato is the best. A town full of warm and friendly people. Sukie & Bob Elkins, South Carolina, USA

Friendly/family oriented. Great location. Wonderful food and service. Clean rooms and facilities. 
Edmund & Robbie Coy, California, USA 

The best three star hotel we have stayed in. The friendliest and most helpful staff. Very good value for the money. 
John & Sharon, Wales