Hotel MS Amaragua

The Amaragua attracts vacationing couples and (to a lesser extent) families with its coastal location and solid array of amenities. At 275 rooms, it's a bit smaller than some of the megaresorts in the area, though it's still large enough to feel a bit impersonal. Common areas include a dark lobby with lots of dark marble -- including a semi-circular dark-green reception desk -- and yellow-and-tan ceilings. A roped in display stagecoach sits off to one side, providing an interesting -- if seemingly random -- touch, while a large stone wall mural adds an elegant touch to the otherwise dated, hodgepodge of furnishings. Outdoor common areas are brighter and more pleasant, including the pool and adjacent lawn for sunbathing. 

The Amaragua is located in Torremolinos -- a resort town on the Costa del Sol that's particularly popular with British travelers -- about a half-hour drive southwest of Malaga. The hotel itself is located right on the beach, though it's a bit far from the main shopping thoroughfares in the city center, which take around 20 to 25 minutes to reach on foot. It's a five-minute drive to Sea Life Benalmadena and the adjacent Puerto Marina shopping area, while the Parque de la Paloma and the Selwo Marina Delfinarium are both about a 10-minute drive from the hotel. Bateria Parque is the nearest green space, about a 10-minute walk away.

The Amaragua offers a good selection of room and suite types, most of which sleep up to two guests (though extra beds can be arranged for those traveling with children). Decor varies a bit from room to room, though all have classic, dated European decor consisting of tile or hardwood floors, sponge-effect yellow or orange walls, and a mix of wrought-iron and carved wood furniture. They also feature dated patterned bedspreads that are mismatched with curtains. Though in need of a refresh, the rooms are still cheerful and comfortable.Most notable is that all units have furnished terraces, many with lovely ocean views. Standard amenities include air-conditioning, flat-screen TVs with satellite cable, minibars, desks, closets with plenty of storage space, and safes --which require a fee. Bathrooms vary from unit to unit, but have -- at a minimum --shower/tub combos, bidets, hose-style hairdryers, and free basic toiletries. 

The Sentido offers a wide variety of amenities, aimed primarily at vacationing couples. The outdoor pool is a decent size and has a deck lined with bright-teal lounge chairs and plenty of parasols for shade. A small children's pool sits adjacent and both have views of the water. Alternatively, the beach is just beyond the pool, and while it's public, the hotel has its own dedicated section with lounge chairs and palapas for rent. A large grassy lawn right on the property has free lounge chairs and sea views. There's also a spa with a small heated indoor pool, whirlpool, sauna, Turkish bath, and all sorts of beauty and massage treatments. The fitness center isn't huge, but it has a good selection of modern cardio machines and slightly more dated-looking weight-training machines.Along with 24-hour room service, the Amaragua has a restaurant serving all meals of the day, including a free breakfast buffet with a decent selection of hot and cold items. There's also a pool bar serving Mediterranean fare and a lobby bar with a grand piano and regular performances. For business travelers, there's a small internet center with three computers as well as eight function rooms for up to 1200 guests. A parking lot with room for 217 vehicles is available, and Wi-Fi is free throughout the property.