Arroyo Vaquero Playa, Crta. A-7 km 150, Estepona, Spain | (888) 708-2081
Quiet location along the coast with direct beach access
10-minute drive to town center with restaurants, bars, and shops
Contemporary rooms have flat-screen TVs, minibars, and kettles
All rooms have balconies, some with lovely sea views
Multiple pools, include adult-only and children's pools
Buffet restaurant, large indoor bar, and poolside snack bar
Spa with massage rooms, whirlpool, and sauna
Small gym, sports facilities, and kids' club
Free activities include sangria- and gazpacho-making workshops
Free Estepona transfer during select times
Free Wi-Fi and use of in-room safe (uncommon here)
Not all balconies are furnished
Not a ton within easy walking distance
Beach is rocky and next to nudist section
This 210-room, upper-middle-range Hotel Fuerte Estepona has a beachfront location in a quiet part of Estepona, about a 10-minute drive from the town center. Contemporary, attractive rooms are equipped with minibars, free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, and lovely jetted bathtubs. All have balconies, but only some are furnished and overlooking the sea. A quality list of on-site amenities includes multiple pools, including adult-only and kiddy pools, kids' club, well-appointed spa, and sports facilities. Travelers looking to be within easier walking distance of shops and restaurants might prefer Hotel Balcon de Europa, though it's not as family-friendly.
Disclaimer: This content was accurate at the time the hotel was reviewed. Please check our partner sites when booking to verify that details are still correct.
Scene
Contemporary, family-friendly hotel with elegant touches
Hotel Fuerte Estepona has a striking appearance due to its size, interesting architecture, and bright-white exterior. The large property has water features and potted plants at its entryway, leading into the impressive, circular lobby with marble stairs. The lounge vignettes are cozy, but they're upholstered in rust- and olive-green-colored fabric that dates the space. The dining areas have a similar mix of modern and tired decor, particularly the Noble Bar's floral-patterned armchairs alongside attractive modern art. Outdoors is where the hotel really shines. The manicured grounds are filled with stonework, palm trees, and grassy lawns that pop against the pools. The widespread sea views add to its appeal.
Location
Quiet beachfront location, a 10-minute drive to Estepona
The prime beachfront location is a big plus for this hotel, though there isn't much in the surrounding area for guests to do. Malaga Airport is about an hour's drive away, while Gibraltar is about a 45-minute drive. The main town center of Estepona -- filled with restaurants and shops -- is about a 10-minute drive away, and the hotel offers free transfers during select times. Due to the somewhat isolated location, previous guests have noted that a rental car or taxi is essential for getting around. Also warned is that there's a nude beach located next door, which may be a negative for some.
Rooms
Contemporary, spacious rooms with modern amenities
Rooms are crisp and contemporary, outfitted in neutral-tone furnishings with pops of red. The design consists of beige tiles and walls, simple wood furniture, and red-and-cream headboards that match the patterned bed runners. The look is attractive but a bit underwhelming. Seating areas range from two wicker chairs and a small table to sofa beds with coffee tables. All have balconies, but some are tiny and not furnished; others are large, feature dining tables, and have lovely sea views. Standard amenities include flat-screen TVs, air-conditioning, free Wi-Fi, free safes (uncommon in this area of Spain), minibars, and coffee- and tea-making facilities. An unexpected perk is the pillow menu. The modern bathrooms have lovely jetted tub/shower combos, hairdryers, and free bath products.
Features
Plenty to do on-site, both inside and out
Both children and adults alike will find something to do at the hotel. In addition to direct beach access, there are four outdoor pools -- one of which is for adults only and another that's for kids. The spa is well-appointed with a hydrotherapy pool, whirlpool, sauna, and steam room. There are also a small gym, sports facilities, and kids' club. Fun and free activities include gazpacho- and sangria-making workshops. The on-site buffet restaurant receives excellent reviews from past guests, and there are also the Noble Bar by the lobby and a poolside snack bar.
