What a difference 9 months makes !
24 June 2008
We stayed at this hotel last year and it was excellent, so we returned last week. We won't be doing so again ! The problem is the eternal one - cut the staff until the complaints become intolerable. (The staff seemed acutely aware of this, many of whom were rather lacking in the jollity department.) At breakfast it was rare for any dirty dishes to be cleared during the meal. The same, though less so, at dinner - how do you enjoy dessert surrounded by dirty starters and main course dishes ? The same with the outside bar area - slow service due to lack of staff. I once asked three times before getting my cheque to sign ! As for an after-dinner drink, we developed a good rule for the waistline - wait 15 minutes and if no one came to take our order, forget it. Three out of seven nights we did just that. Pity - it's a lovely hotel.
Haydn White, Leeds, UK
Mature Couple (36+)
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Review of El Fuerte Hotel
23 June 2008
The location is fabulous. Very central and close proximity to shops, restaurants, the promenade as well as 'Orange Square'. Easy access to the pool and beach. Food wasn't spectacular but not bad either. My husband and I did find the staff very slow at check in and not shown how to get to our rooms. It didn't bother us too much but others in our group were far less impressed when their internet booking wasn't recognised and the staff member totally ignored their confirmation and tried to sell them a new room at an obvious higher rate. He eventually found their reservation but offered no apology. Our room faced the car park but this didnt bother us too much as the room was spacious and clean and we didn't spend too much time in there anyway. Housekeeping service on our floor was fast and efficient, but very slow on other floors where our friends stayed. The service in general is very slow but I think this happens everywhere in this particular region. Nevertheless I would recommend this hotel and definitely use alpharooms again.
C. Swartz, Ireland
Young Couple (18-35)
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Review of 'EL FUERTE'
17 October 2006
We found the staff very efficient and friendly.Facilities for swimming and sunbathing were very good, but the sun loungers needed matresses, as they became uncomfortable. The hotel is in a lovely position, offering access to the beach and the beach club.Very close to 'Orange Square' with excellent range of shops and restaurants. The hotel offered first-rate evening entertainment. The rooms were very clean, and all the bedding and linens were changed regularly, as required. We stayed in a standard room at the front of the hotel which was reasonably quiet. An enjoyable stay - would definitely return!
Jean Margaret Watson, Essex/ England
Other
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Review of 'EL FUERTE'
29 September 2006
The El Fuerte Hotel is an old style charming Spanish Hotel set in an amazing location a few minutes walk from the beautiful orange square. Although the staff try their upmost to accomodate requests they do not seem able to work outside their set 'rules and procedures' which can be irritating and time consuming to the guest who do not get their answers to the last minute and after some complaining. For example I had specifically asked for a non-smoking room but was given one anyway and could not be moved that first night of stay due to some 'rule'! Having said this it is a hotel I would revisit as the facilities and location are special and I came back really rested after an enjoyable four days.
Amanda Glass, London, England
Solo Traveller
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Second Time Around at 'EL FUERTE' - Marbella
25 September 2006
This hotel is absolutely fantastic. We visited here 22 years ago for a romantic break and decided to return in the hope that it would be just as magical. Not only was the holiday perfect but the hotel and amenities had much improved, with 2nd swimming pool, and excellent entertainment & keep fit facilities. Very peaceful as only a handful of children and excellent service. We will definitely return as there is so much to do and see, plus the exquisite ambiance of the Old Town of Marbella which hasn't changed. Also thank you to Alpha rooms for being, as usual, always so helpful and accommodating.
Jane Ludlow, Windsor
Mature Couple (36+)
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Review of 'EL FUERTE'
30 July 2006
This hotel is wonderful! We stayed at a much more expensive hotel in Marbella previously, but will always be staying at the El Fuerte in future. The standard of the hotel is excellent, the location is unbeatable, right next to the beach and minutes from the shops and Old Town. The staff are very friendly and the food is excellent. Breakfast has everything on the buffet you could imagine. Lunch can be taken at the hotel or the beach restaurant(not included in half board), both are exceptional. we have travelled extensively and have high standards. This hotel meets them. Better suited to those without children.
Yvonne Jenkins, Chester, england
Mature Couple (36+)
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Review of 'EL FUERTE'
29 July 2006
We had a very enjoyable stay. The Hotel is very central and gave us easy access to the beach and surrounding bars. We enjoyed the spacious lounge bar and the entertainment on offer. The sea views are spectacular and the poolside very relaxing. We found the staff very knowledgable and helpful, and the room was spotless. We appreciated the security system.
The El Fuerte is definately a place I would recommend to people I meet
Craig Young, Scotland
Mature Couple (36+)
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Review of 'EL FUERTE'
07 January 2006
We spent a week over Christmas and New Year and had a great time. This is the fifth time we have stayed at this hotel,mainly for its excellent location. Leave the hotel via the gardens and you are on the main promenade with a huge selection of restaurants. If you leave via the front doors you come out onto the main street, with Orange Square and the Old Town.The rooms are spacious, the best ones having a balcony and sea view.We found all the staff to be very helpful and courteous, especially if you try out your spanish!. The evening entertainment is geared towards the more 'mature'. The food in the hotel's beach club is excellent but you should book if you want a table outside.
T Jack, Sunderland
Mature Couple (36+)
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Review of 'EL FUERTE'
04 January 2006
Our stay in the El Fuerte was very enjoyable. The hotel is very well situated in the center of Marbella on the Paseo Maritimo and just a short walk to the Old town with its cobbled streets and famous Orange Square.
The hotel was very good with lots of amenities of you wish them. The reception staff were extremely polite, curteous and helpful. The rooms were well furnished and very clean and comfortable. The breakfast buffet was much more than adequate.
We would definately recommend this hotel for a stay in Marbella.
Sheryl Thomson, Gibraltar
Family with teenagers 12+
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Review of 'EL FUERTE'
14 August 2005
excellent position right on the seafront right opposite the old town so great for evening strolls. friendly staff. Decor needs to be updated and refreshed.
robert leyton, london england
Mature Couple (36+)
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