Hotel BlauMar Llafranch

Perched high above Llafranc's sleepy seafront, views of the Mediterranean's deep blue waters are true to BlauMar's translated "Blue Sea" name. Gorgeous vistas are visible from rooms, terraced gardens, and a well-placed outdoor pool. Polished interiors have country-chic decor -- think cream clawfoot furniture, pastel walls, gilt-accented tapestries, and carved dressers on hardwood floors -- with an overall look that's more elegant than old-fashioned. A cafe has wooden chairs topped with floral-patterned cushions next to white-clothed tables, which are flanked by flower-print couches and leather seating. Watering cans, flower bouquets, and candle vases decorate the space. Outdoors, lawns and terraces overlooking the shimmering sea are lovely, and turn romantic in the evenings when scented candles and Moroccan lanterns are lit (though most guests head to town for dinner). Admittedly, there isn't much to do here aside from gaze at the view poolside, but that's precisely what draws guests. While families are welcome, the quiet setting is better suited to couples on a getaway. Note, return walks from Llafranc are a bit of a hike, and taxis are pricey. Also be aware that the hotel is only open from March through November.

Despite hosting famous figures throughout the 20th century, the small town of Llafranc remains unspoiled, and the hotel overlooks its gorgeous bay. Downhill walks to reach Llafranc's beach and seafront promenade take 10 minutes, and authentic restaurants here dot small streets. Yachts docking at Llafranc's marina are a 12-minute walk away. Busses to farther Costa Brava destinations can be found downtown, but the hotel itself is isolated, and a vehicle is recommended. Nevertheless, coastal walks here are lovely, and for a nearby spot, neighboring Calella de Palafrugell's rocky inlets and coves take 15 minutes. Note, however, that walks back are uphill and may be difficult for some. San Sebastian Lighthouse is 33 minutes on foot, or a 10-minute drive. The city of Girona is a 50-minute drive, as is Girona- Costa Brava Airport. 

Quiet, air-conditioned rooms have an elegant, country style, outfitted in rustic wooden furniture (some painted robin egg blue or pink), matching patterned linens in bold colors like purple or red, hardwood floors, and white walls. Gold heart-shaped wall hangings, floral lampshades, plant-themed artwork, and heart cutouts on some of the headboards add cute accents, resulting in a homey, garden-like feel. French doors open to lovely private balconies on higher floors or loungers on ground-level patios, which have a private garden feel. All have tables and chairs, and at least partial views of the sea. Upgraded rooms and suites have full-on sea vistas. Amenities include phones, electronic safes, glass-topped desks, satellite flat-screen TVs, and minibars, plus kettles for tea- and coffee-making (rare for the region). Lovely beige-tiled bathrooms have large rainfall showers in lower-category rooms, while suites have jetted tubs with rainfall showerheads. All have fluffy robes, slippers, magnifying mirrors, toiletries, and hairdryers. Note, suites cannot accommodate extra beds, although crib fittings are free. 

Between the free buffet breakfast and bar's all-day meals, guests here get by just fine without a full restaurant. The rich morning spread includes scrambled or made-to-order eggs, homemade cakes, and continental fare. The bar and breakfast room has wooden dining sets, couches, and chairs inside, while outside is a wicker-furnished terrace with huge white parasols and views of the lawn and sea in the distance. The green lawn divides the hotel from its outdoor infinity pool, which isn't heated, but is generally fine during summer. Surrounding yellow and white loungers are plentiful, and depending on positioning, views over its waters blend right into the sea. Note, waters are shallow, and there are no umbrellas for shade. On the downside, the hotel has no fitness or spa facilities. Laundry and dry cleaning can be arranged at a fee. On-site parking is free and plentiful, and Wi-Fi is free throughout.