Paraje de San Miguel, s/n, El Rompido, Spain | (888) 551-4925
Peaceful location in a pine forest, near beautiful beach
Some rooms have spectacular views over the nearby national park
Big outdoor pool surrounded by lounge chairs and Balinese beds
Attractive indoor pool and hot tub plus sauna
Car hire available at the hotel
Occasional evening entertainment
Free parking and Wi-Fi
Small fitness center
All-inclusive option
Popular local party destination; can get loud and crowded on weekends
Remote location away from shopping and other dining options
Mosquitoes are reported to be a problem
Checkout times inflexible
Wi-Fi may be spotty
This seasonal, adults-only, 230-room resort with all-inclusive options serves as a playground for locals on the weekend, and is also frequented regularly by a small contingency of other Europeans. It is close to the beach, set in pine trees about two miles from the town of El Rompido, but is far from restaurants, shops, and bars. The beach is accessible via a private ferry shuttle. There is a big outdoor pool surrounded by Balinese beds and a separate indoor pool and hot tub. Rooms are simple and bright, but guests report a problem with mosquitoes.
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Scene
Seasonal chain resort
This resort, part of a chain, is a favorite getaway for locals on the weekends; during the week it is reportedly quieter. Set on an isolated suburban road, the hotel is a modern ranch-like structure consisting of low-lying buildings set around a system of pools and gardens. The main lobby is light and airy, with floor-to-ceiling windows on several sides, outfitted in marble floors and large impressive staircases reminiscent of 80s-style architecture. The overall aesthetic is plain and slightly institutional, like a high end summer camp, though not at all unpleasant.
Location
Near the beach, about two miles from the small town of El Rompido in southern Spain
Garden Playanatural Hotel and Spa has a remote location among pine trees; visitors may find renting a car to be convenient. Taxis are available. Walking to the nearest commerce takes about 15 minutes. The beach is 600 meters away and accessible via a free shuttle boat provided by the hotel.
Rooms
Spacious, if simple, rooms outfitted in cheery colors
Red-and-white striped curtains, and other simple, summery textiles do a lot to brighten otherwise plain, though reportedly clean, rooms, many of which have balconies, and all of which come with a small tube TV, air-conditioning, and a robe and slippers for each guest. Larger sleeping configurations may, as is often the case in Europe, consist of two twin beds pushed together. Larger rooms have a couch, and some have balconies overlooking the garden.
Features
Lots of daytime activities, mini golf, indoor and outdoor pools
Volleyball, aerobics, and other group activities are on constant offer in the day here. There is a tiny fitness room with a small handful of exercise machines, as well as conference rooms, tennis courts, table tennis, and a small spa with a sauna. The hotel is reportedly sensitive to dietary restrictions. There is a big outdoor pool surrounded by loungers and Balinese day beds and a separate indoor pool and hot tub.
