Hotel Ibersol Antemare

Newly renovated in 2015, the Hotel Ibersol Antemare has a fresh, modern feel that's a nice alternative to some of the other mid- and upper-middle-range properties in town. Its colored balconies furnished with candy-striped deckchairs stand out on the largely residential road, and an attractive flower-adorned entrance leads into nicely landscaped grounds. A large water feature and plenty of greenery add an air of serenity, while inside, funky artwork and lighting create a bright, natural style. It's a busy place with lots going on, from exercise classes to wedding parties, but there are plenty of pockets for relaxation, with a second quieter pool and garden in addition to the livelier main pool deck and restaurant terraces. Guests tend to be young couples and groups, with some families in the mix as well. The many steps and stairs between areas may deter older or less mobile travelers.

Hotel Ibersol Antemare is located just outside the historic and LGBT-friendly town of Sitges, just a two-minute walk from the beach. It's a 15-minute walk along to town and 10 minutes to tapas bars and restaurants along the promenade, which are lively by night. The iconic Church of Santa Bartomeu & Santa Tecla, and the pretty cobbled streets of the Old Town are around 18 minutes away on foot. It's only a few minutes faster by car -- as much of the town is pedestrianized. Expect a 10-minute walk from the hotel to the bus stop on Passeig de Vilanova, and it's around an hour from there via the bus to Barcelona's city center. Trains run from Renfe Stiges to the city center too, and transit time is around 40 minutes. There's a direct bus route to the airport which takes about 45 minutes, or it's a 30-minute drive. 

Rooms are bright, with a minimalist style that includes light wood floors and all-white decor. Each room has a pop of blue or red in the chevron-patterned cushions and standard features include air-conditioning, flat-screen TVs, minibars, safes, and a furnished balcony. There are no tea/coffee facilities, but this is common in Spanish hotels. Bear in mind most rooms have twin beds pushed together, with the exception of some Junior Suites which have kings. You're also likely to spot a bit of wear on furniture as the hotel does see some party-minded clients -- this is Sitges, after all. Rooms overlooking the pool are available at an extra cost, and Deluxe Rooms add small sitting spaces -- which double as third beds for family/friend groups. Junior Suites have more spacious sitting areas and larger terrace balcony. Bathrooms are small and separated from the bedrooms with sliding doors. Style again is simple and fresh, with pale tiles and rainfall showers plus pump toiletries and hairdryers. Some Deluxe Rooms and Junior Suites add large circular bathtubs with shower-attachments. We did spot just a bit of grime in the showers during our visit. 

The Hotel Ibersol Antemare has two restaurants: the more formal La Pergola, located beside the pool deck, serves a seasonal Mediterranean menu and a buffet breakfast, while the laid-back Gastro Bar offers light meals and drinks until late. Gastro Bar has indoor and outdoor seating, with a variety of sofas and tables. Food can also be taken around the main pool deck, where there are sun loungers, cabana beds, a whirlpool, and some tables. There's also a second, quieter pool with a pleasant garden area beside it. The hotel has a spa with a hydrotherapy bath and a range of massage treatments, though this -- in 2017 -- is temporarily closed. There are 12 event spaces which are suitable for private parties and meetings, catering for up to 300 people, and Wi-Fi is free throughout.