Hotel Mena Plaza

In a small, quiet plaza among other similarly structured buildings sits Hotel Mena Plaza. Guest's beach towels hung over balconies add color to the neutrally colored building and a laid-back vibe. Inside, the hotel is clean and contemporary, if a bit lackluster. The stark-white, faux-leather boxy armchairs are toned down with potted plants and warm, deep-red accent walls and matching chairs. The cafe has a similar dark-red-and-white color scheme, plus an outdoor terrace with modern wicker furniture. The breakfast room is more stylish with wood floors, lucite chairs, striped wallpaper, and chrome light fixtures, though it's hard to top the rooftop pool and its stunning vistas.

The 50-minute drive from Malaga Airport may be a negative for some, but once at Hotel Mena Plaza guests will be able to travel on foot most everywhere else. Restaurants and bars abound in the surrounding area, as do things to do. A beach is a quick five-minute walk away, or the popular Playa la Torrecilla is 14 minutes. Museo de Nerja is just a one-minute walk from the hotel, Plaza Balcon de Europa is a seven-minute walk, and Plaza de Espana is a two-minute walk. 

Rooms at Hotel Mena Plaza could certainly be deemed lackluster, as they have a neutral color scheme and simple light-wood furniture. On a positive note, though, rooms are contemporary, clean, and well-sized. Another bonus: Every room at the hotel promises a balcony or terrace, though some are Juliet-style and not large enough for chairs. The design consists of dark-wood or beige-tile flooring, white walls with brown accent walls, brown bedspreads, and either brown or brown-and-blue-striped curtains. Pieces of artwork over the beds -- either black-and-white or more colorful beach scenes -- add some personality. 

Standard amenities include air-conditioning, flat-screen TVs, free Wi-Fi, and mini-fridges. Bathrooms have either walk-in showers or shower/tub combos, and all promise hairdryers and free bath products. Apartments with full kitchens are also available, though these units don't include free housekeeping. Note that noise from outside and neighboring rooms has been an issue for some.  

Described as a suntrap by previous guests, the rooftop pool is ideal for those looking to catch some rays. The pool deck is covered in turf, and there are plenty of loungers and a few scattered umbrellas throughout the area. The hotel lacks a gym and other leisure facilities, however. Dining-wise, the Gran Cafeteria is a casual spot for lunch and dinner, with both indoor and alfresco dining. The breakfast buffet reportedly offers a good variety of food, and is served in its own designated dining area. Wi-Fi is free throughout, but it can be slow and unreliable.