Barcelo Marbella

We have stayed here many times but unfortunately on this occasion due to the new Government laws (No hotel Air Con when outside temperature less than 27degs) there was no Air Conditioning in the bedrooms. Temp hit uncomfortable 26.5 degrees in bedroom. We had to move hotels after first night to another Barcelo hotel Occidental Puerto Banus which had Air Con in apartment rooms. Staff who were very nice could do nothing for us as this is a strict Government law. I do think however they need mobile Air Con units for rooms in situations like this. Coming from Ireland 26.5 degrees is a heatwave!

Four of us stayed here for 7 nights whilst golfing in the area. The hotel was excellent, and the staff were all very helpful, friendly and efficient. It was very quiet which may just be the time of year. There's not much within walking distance, but there are several busy areas only a short taxi ride away. The rooms were a good size and comfortable, cosy but not too warm. It was possible to open the sliding door to the balcony overlooking the pool and there were chairs and a table there. The beds were comfortable, with a good choice of pillows. The ensuite facilities were excellent. The buffet breakfast was comprehensive and it was possible to have eggs cooked fresh in any form. Most of the warm food was just that, though, and could have been hotter. There was a great array of fresh fruit, cheeses and meats, fruit juices, several varieties of milk, fresh coffee, pastries, croissants, breads and toasters if you wanted to use them. The staff were excellent, clearing tables frequently and on hand to help if needed. The bar area was a pleasant place to sit in the evening, either outside or inside, and they offered a good selection of really tasty food cooked to order. There were other sitting areas in the larger foyer, and a large screen TV showing mostly football in the evenings. There were pool and spa areas too but we didn’t use these. Overall, a lovely hotel that we’d be happy to return to.

The hotel is extremely clean and well maintained. We spent 14 nights here in February. Our room was a superior room which was large and had a lovely bath and shower room. Breakfast was very good with a great choice. Evening meals were disappointing , ranging from a good choice to very little choice. Some evenings there was only one vegetable available and desserts were not replenished. Foods kept on hot plates was regularly cold. Foods were not labelled which made it very difficult for those of us with allergies. When we pointed this out, labels were provided for 2 evenings and only for those foods containing eggs. There was no information available for ordering drinks at the table and when we asked about wine we were told that we could have red or white. We understand that hotels in the area may be quieter in February but it did feel as if the hotel was operating on a skeleton staff. The hotel itself is lovely but our experience has left us very disappointed.