Inside massive 122-room hotel right on the beach owned by a football legend who chats to fans in the lavish bar
IT’S a hotel fit for one of the game’s greats.
Found in lively Romanian beach resort, Mamaia, the IAKI Conference & Spa Hotel has incredible views of the Black Sea coast.
It boasts 122 spacious rooms, costing up to £100-per-night.
While the resort also features luxuries like a first class spa, private beach, and outdoor and indoor swimming pools.
Better still, its famous owner has been known to frequent the hotel bar and relive his tales of glory.
With a storied career, playing in three World Cups and three European Championships, the famous playmaker will have plenty of stories to tell.
At club level, the classic No10 boasts Real Madrid and Barcelona on his glittering CV.
While in terms of his honours, he’s won the Turkish league title four times, and was named in FIFA World Cup All-Star Team for his exploits with Romania in 1994.
His footballing legacy has been continued by a son, who has starred for Scottish side Rangers.
Have you guessed who owns this wondrous abode?
It is, of course, the legend that is, Gheorghe Hagi.
When he was still playing for Galatasaray, Hagi took over the Bucharest Hotel in 1999.
He invested his fortune into modernising the property – making it the premier Mamaia beach hotel.
In 2001, it was relaunched as the IAKI Conference & Spa Hotel and was awarded four stars.
Here’s what makes it so good.
What you get
For those not in the know, the Black Sea boasts crystal clear waters this time of year.
The hotel offers both a seafront and a lake view, so there’s serenity wherever you look within its grounds.
Bedrooms are tastefully decorated in neutral colours and offer peace of mind.
They are equipped with minibar, hairdryer, air conditioning, cable television, international telephone, internet access (wi-fi), safe and electric kettle.
There are pools, including one indoors that is perfectly heated all-year round.
The outdoor pools were remodelled this year and are heated between May and September, depending on the outside temperature (min. 15°C).
The IAKI has three dining areas to enjoy.
The Coriolis is open all-year round, and offers traditional Romanian fare.
It has plenty of seafood on the menu, from seabass to shrimp and scallops.
Meat eaters won’t be disappointed with offerings including beef tenderloin, lamb chops, and pork ribs.
Deserts featured on the latest menu are tiramisu and ‘Hagi ice cream’, which is basically a vanilla flavour with an espresso.
The Ballroom restaurant is where the buffet meals are served during the summer.
They also have a live band on show some evenings, as well as live cooking demos.
IAKI Casino is the third spot, which is usually reserved for special occasions, like birthdays, weddings and baptisms.
Hagi also made sure that one of the amenities was a football pitch, where staff and guests will play.
But it’s the spa where it really goes to show it’s best amenities.
As well as a jacuzzi, there’s a yoga room, spinning classes and a wet and dry sauna.
Massage rooms and body treatments are available too.
Fancy a tipple?
On any given day or night, you might catch sight of Hagi propping up the Piano Bar or overlooking proceedings at the Sunrise Bar.
The former is found on the ground floor of the hotel.
It has a capacity for 60 guests, who can indulge in spirits, including Romania’s national drink, Tuica.
Cake and ice cream is also available at the bar, for those with a sweet tooth.
The Sunrise Bar, which is poolside, is open only during the summer.
Meet the owner
A quick glimpse on TripAdvisor has revealed reviews that are generally positive.
read m0re sport features
It scores a very impressive four and half out of five on the travel guidance platform.
One review even revealed you might get to meet the owner.
Cliff C, who gave a five star review, wrote: “Beautiful Hotel on the beach. Clean and comfortable. Excellent buffet breakfast. If your lucky enough you might even meet Romanian Soccer legend Hagi in the Hotel bar. I know i did. 
“Beach is literally on your door step. And walk along the promenade through all the vendors and restaurant is definitely worth it.”
Alexa S posted: “Iaki is my oasis of peace and relax on de Romanian coast.
“It is the only place where I return with love because everything is as I want it – cleanliness, quiet, kindness, delicious and varied food.
“And this year didn’t disappoint me so congrats for all team and management and thank you for the surprise for my birthday.”
While Liliana C commented: “Iaki Hotel is an excellent choice for a stay in Mamaia, Romania. The hotel boasts a prime location near the beach, offering stunning sea views and easy access to local attractions.
“The rooms are spacious, well-maintained, and feature modern amenities. Guests can enjoy a variety of on-site facilities, including a spa, outdoor pool, and multiple dining options.
“The staff is friendly and attentive, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable experience. Whether you’re visiting for leisure or business, Iaki Hotel provides a relaxing and memorable stay.”