Hipotels Playa La Barrosa

Built in 1992, Tui Sensimar Playa La Barrosa was the first hotel in the area, but the property feels fresh and contemporary thanks to extensive renovations in 2012-13. Interiors are contemporary throughout, but the most impressive indoor space is perhaps the huge atrium-style lobby, which features massive windows overlooking the pool and the ocean, and a large skylight. Fuchsia velvet couches, soaring wooden ceilings, and an exterior glass elevator are modern touches that tie in well with the marble-like veined floor tiles in neutral hues. Outside, expansive lawns dotted with pine trees and loungers are inviting and peaceful, and the spacious oceanfront pool deck has enough chairs for all guests. The focus here is on relaxation, and although there is some seasonal entertainment, the vibe is quiet and serene. Guests are primarily German and Spanish couples who tend to spend the day around the pool or at the beach, which is known for its fine sand, few crowds, and beach bars with sunset views. Live music is available several times per week in the summer, but shows generally end early, allowing for long, quiet nights. 

The hotel is located right on La Barrosa Beach, one of the nicest and longest in the area. Around it, upscale hotels and private residences line the quiet streets, and there are a few restaurants, bars, and shops within an easy walk of the hotel. The area, known as Novo Sancti Petri, is a tony beachside community developed in the 1990s, and though street parking may be hard to come by in the peak season, noise and crowds are not an issue. Novo Sancti Petri is known for its excellent golf courses, and Novo Sancti Petri Golf can be reached within a 15-minute walk (four-minute drive) of the hotel. Chiclana de la Frontera, located a 15-minute drive away, features several historic sights and a couple of great markets, all of which are worth a visit. The historic center of Cadiz can be reached in about 40 minutes by car. Jerez International Airport is a 50-minute drive away. 

The hotel has 264 air-conditioned rooms, all decorated in a simple, contemporary style that combines beige marble-like floors with recessed lighting and abstract art on walls. Wooden furniture is somewhat generic, but large padded headboards, purple accents in ottomans, chairs, and pillows, and clean lines throughout add some style. All rooms have floor-to-ceiling glass doors opening onto furnished balconies, many overlooking the gardens, and the rest offering great side or full ocean views. Each room is equipped with all the amenities expected of an upscale hotel, including free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs with international channels, minibars, and electric kettles alongside free tea and coffee. However, safes are only available for a daily or weekly fee. Bathrooms are clean and appealing, with a combination of beige and white stone finishes, and spacious showers. Hairdryers and hotel-brand toiletries are provided in all room categories. It's worth mentioning that beds may be two twins pushed together, though that's common for Spain.

The large, freeform pool is located on a large deck overlooking the beach. There are plenty of loungers and umbrellas around it, and a long strip of cabanas are available on a separate section between the pool and the ocean. The small indoor pool is housed in the spa and opens seasonally, but it is a pleasant spot for a quick dip in the winter. Additionally, the spa features a whirlpool, sauna, steam room, heated loungers, and massage rooms. Loungers are available at the beach, but they come at a fee. The fitness center is compact but well-equipped, with several cardio and strength-training machines, and large windows overlooking the pool and the gardens. On-site dining options are excellent and varied, including an international buffet, an a la carte restaurant, and a beach snack bar. There is also a small bar by the pool with a good selection of drinks and small bites. Wi-Fi is free throughout the property. Outdoor parking is free, while underground parking requires a fee.