H10 Delfin

The H10 Delfin stands out along the Costa Dorada for both its stylish, modern design and adult-only policy. The lobby makes an impression, a vast space with white and black wood panelling on the walls and cream marble floors. Comfortable sofas in contrasting blue velvet, tree-stump coffee tables, and chic studded armchairs, plus the presence of a well-priced bar, make it a place to linger. Also, just off here is a cozy library space with shelves of books. The hotel’s buffet-style restaurant is outfitted with the same tasteful decor. Outside, two pools are found on a sunny terrace; the larger has a striking waterfall feature, while the second pool is smaller and quieter. The hotel is geared toward vacationing couples, and a range of activities are offered during the day and night.

The H10 Delfin is well-located in the centre of Salou, a five-minute walk from the town’s sandy beach. Surrounding the hotel are a range of shops, bars, and restaurants. It is a 15-minute drive to the town of Tarragona, with a number of well-preserved Roman ruins, designated a UNESCO World Heritage site. Tarragona also features a cathedral, and a number of shops and restaurants that are fancier than those found in Salou. Barcelona is 90 minutes away, both by train and by car. Reus Airport is 35 minutes away by car, while Barcelona-El Prat takes between an hour and 90 minutes.

Rooms at the H10 Delfin aren't as stylish as the common spaces, but they're contemporary and well-maintained. They're outfitted with white and pale-yellow popcorn walls, dark-wood furniture, light-wood furniture, and linens in either warm earth-tones or neutral colors. Standard amenities include flat-screen TVs, armchairs, and free Wi-Fi, plus mini-fridges and safes for a fee. All have private furnished balconies with varying views. Bathrooms are done in gray-white tiling, marble sinks, shower/tub combos, hairdryers, and an array of toiletries. Some guests have complained that rooms have thin walls and let in lots of noise.

The H10 Delfin offers a predictable list of features, aimed at those looking for an uncomplicated poolside vacation. There are two outdoor pools, one sizable with an impressive waterfall feature, and a smaller one set in a more private part of the large, sunny terrace. The latter also has jetted features and an adjacent kiddy pool. Some guests have reported trouble finding a lounger during high season. There's no spa, but a small gym is available, as is a game room with billiards, foosball, and air-hockey tables, as well as a few arcade machines. Daily entertainment is offered during high season, but this tends to be targeted at an older clientele.

Buffet-style meals are served in the hotel’s restaurant, but guests are allocated a time slot and have to eat their fill in an hour. The meals can be quite mixed -- there’s plenty of choice, but the food quality varies. Half-board and full-board options are available. A small cafe serves hot and cold drinks, as well as light snacks in a handsome space. Drinks of a more alcoholic variety can be found at bars in the lobby and by the pool.