Hotel Terramar

Family-run warmth has been attracting guests here since 1933. Opposite a beach with golden sands and in the village center, the hotel is ideally placed. A contemporary, stylish, and island-themed design pervades throughout, with lots of whites, blues, and beach-inspired artwork. The lobby has pretty sailboat artwork over cozy seating fit for a beach house, while the minimalist restaurant has panoramic windows for lovely beach vistas. With most guests hitting the beach or exploring nearby streets, the rooftop terrace is blissfully quiet, as is the somewhat sparsely decorated lounge. The significant British crowd here particularly appreciate its free tea and coffee, especially since there are no in-room kettles. There isn't much for kids, but with the beach across the street, it's still a solid family pick.

Despite being in Llafranc's center, the hotel is peaceful, and this small town remains unspoiled. The seafront promenade and a narrow street divide the hotel and beach, where waters here are good for swimming. Frequented by movie stars and artists throughout the 20th century, Llafranc remains small, but local life here has a buzz, and small streets are packed with authentic restaurants. Coastal walks to neighboring Calella de Palafrugell take 12 minutes, where rocky inlets provide more bathing spots, and streets here are livelier. A vehicle isn't an absolute necessity, but it's recommended, as busses are infrequent. Taxis are generally available. The historic city of Girona is a 55-minute drive, as is Girona-Costa Brava Airport.

Rooms are outfitted in nautical blues and whites, and island-themed artwork and anchor motifs on the white linens add decorative touches. The contemporary units have white wooden furniture, wood floors, and a breezy feel, plus chic geometric prints and accent wallpaper in some. Beds are two twins pushed together, though this is common for the region. Amenities include phones, satellite flat-screen TVs, mini-fridges with bottled water, and safes. No tea- or coffee-making facilities are provided. Armchairs and desks with stools come standard, and upgraded rooms have furnished balconies with sea views --though some are obstructed by trees. Bright bathrooms have shower/tub combo, hairdryers, and toiletries. Family Rooms with sofa beds are available, and rooms can be fitted with cribs. Note, some rooms overlook the street and/or lack balconies.

Although the hotel lacks a pool and kid-centric facilities, there are still some quality amenities offered. Terrassa Terramar serves regional "paella", plus its own take on surf 'n' turf. Although indoor dining come with panoramic windows, a seafront terrace with bar service is the more popular spot. At a fee, the buffet breakfast serves cooked, continental, and Spanish options. A lounge area has free tea and coffee near a small library section, and the room has a balcony. Sun-worshippers are catered to with a roof terrace, where cushioned loungers and umbrellas sit atop fake grass. Fitness enthusiasts can use the gym for free, but the room is small, and the limited cardio and weight-training machines are old. Secure parking is at a fee, and a five-minute walk away. Wi-Fi is free throughout, and beach towels are free.