Magnolia Hotel

The Magnolia Hotel stands out among other properties in Salou not only for its adult-only policy, but also its modern decor. The hotel makes an impression with its sparse but well-decorated lobby, scattered with tasteful abstract art and a few chairs. Its somewhat funky approach to design continues in the adjoining Match Point Lounge, which features sofas that look like they’re straight out of a sci-fi movie, in contrasting shades of bright-green and cool-grey. The same plastic furniture can be found on the small but appealing terrace next to the pool. There's no entertainment offered here, so the atmosphere is quiet and relaxed.

The Magnolia Hotel is set a three-minute walk from Salou’s beach and promenade, and pretty much in the middle of the town. It’s in an excellent location, surrounded by shops, bars, and restaurants. Although the hotel is in a quiet area of town, nightlife is not far away. It is approximately a 15-minute cab journey to the city of Tarragona, which has a Gothic cathedral and Roman ruins that have been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, as well as classier shops and restaurants than are to be found in Salou. It takes 35 minutes to reach Reus Airport, and between 60 and 90 minutes for Barcelona-El Prat.

The rooms at the Magnolia Hotel have been decorated with the same care and attention as the hotel’s communal areas. There are four room categories -- Standard, Superior, Club, and Pool -- and all have wood floors, white walls and wood furniture, and pops of orange in the bed linens and sofas. Every room has a furnished balcony or terrace with varying views, but the best views are from Pool Rooms, which face toward the sea and have spacious balconies with loungers. Standard amenities include a flat-screen satellite TV, mini-fridge, free Wi-Fi, and air-conditioning but safes require a fee. Every room has a big shower with hydro-massage jets and good pressure, plus hairdryer and toiletries. Some rooms have shower/tub combos. Note that many guests complain of the walls being paper-thin between rooms. 

The Magnolia Hotel offers a range of features that are aimed at those looking for peace and quiet in an adult-only environment. There is a small outdoor, freshwater pool, surrounded by modern wood decking with a limited supply of sun loungers. Funky outdoor furniture is located on an adjacent fake-grass terrace. Inside, guests will find a spa offering massage and beauty treatments, as well as a hot tub, sauna, and a steam room. Close by is a tiny gym with a handful of modern machines and free weights. The lounge has foosball, billiards, and ping-pong tables for those that are looking for some entertainment, as there are no animation or activities scheduled. 

The on-site restaurant serves a continental breakfast spread with a selection of breads and pastries, cheeses, meats, and fruits. Guests who are after something hot can get a cooked breakfast made-to-order. Dinner consists of main courses served a la carte, while starters, sides, and desserts are buffet-style. A poolside bar is available, but guests have reported frustrations over its erratic schedule.