Pierre & Vacances Residence Benalmadena Principe

The Pierre & Vacances Residence Benalmadena Principe is one of the more modern apartment-style hotels in and around Benalmadena. Still, we aren't talking cutting-edge design, and everything here has a fairly plain aesthetic that will appeal to folks who don't need flashy style or tons of features on-site. The property's simple vibe is clear immediately upon entering. There's a large traditional lobby with lounge areas with couches flanking both sides of the front entrance. A circular pattern of brown, gray, and black marble fans out across the floor from a pair of elevators. The reception desk is staffed 24-hours and guests can wander down halls toward vending machines or a spa, but none of the on-site businesses and facilities within the same complex are affiliated with the hotel. As such, this hotel is best used by independent travelers, including families and couples looking for space to spread out and the flexibility of kitchens and other home-like amenities in their rooms.

The hotel is in a corner building surrounded by residential apartments, about an eight-minute walk from the beach. Bars and restaurants, ranging from independent places serving local cuisine to McDonald's are just around the corner along Avenida las Palmeras. Otherwise, the area is fairly calm and quiet. The Selwo Marina Delfinarium sea life center is a 13-minute walk from the hotel; it's next to the Parque De La Paloma, with its ponds, fountains, picnic areas, and wildlife. Torrequebrada Casino is a five-minute drive away, and the popular Torrequebrada golf course is an 11-minute drive away. Those looking for the bustling bar and nightlife scene around the marina will need to hop in a cab or drive -- it's about 10 minutes away by car. The closest airport is near Malaga, which is a 20-minutes drive from the hotel.

Each of the 105 one- and two-bedroom apartments have a generic, if reasonably modern look, with wood-laminate floors, cream walls, and dark-wood furniture. A bit of abstract art hangs on the walls, and sofas and chairs are upholstered in a sharp tan tweed, but otherwise the style is simple and we spotted some wear and scuff marks on walls and tables. Large private balconies have a table and chairs. Some units have partial sea views, but most have views of neighboring buildings. The full kitchens are equipped with refrigerators, microwaves, and four-burner ceramic stovetops. There are no ovens, but each unit has a dishwasher and a washer/dryer, along with small appliances including coffeemakers, toasters, and kettles. Living rooms have dining tables that seat four, sofa beds, coffee tables, armchairs, and flat-screen TVs atop credenzas. Free basic Wi-Fi is available in rooms, but there are fees for higher speeds. Keep in mind that there are fees for daily housekeeping as well. The tiled bathrooms have bidets and shower/tub combos fitted with detachable showerheads and panels with body jets. Unfortunately, the grout in the unit that we visited could use a deep scrub. 

Apart from the reception lounge area in the lobby, there's a small communal lounge with several card tables and a row of computers. Outside, there's a courtyard with a pool and a kids' pool surrounded by artificial turf, as well as a sun deck with lounge chairs and umbrellas along one side. While basic Wi-Fi is free, high-speed Wi-Fi costs extra. Underground parking is also an additional charge. There's a large spa within the same building that's not affiliated with the hotel, but guests can use it for a fee. Spa features include an indoor pool, a hot tub, a sauna, and fitness center, but there's a fee to access the facilities.