A bit far out but good value for money
07 August 2007
I was looking for a budget week with my 12 year old daughter. This hotel was just the ticket, enabling us to see Barcelona without breaking the bank. The hotel facilities were good and the staff helpful. The rooms comfortable and ensuite very clean with a good shower and an assortment of complimentary bits and bobs. On the down side there was no balcony in the room, and the view was of a building site. There was a mini fridge in the room, which we didn't use, but no kettle/tea or coffee making facilities. The TV was all Spanish channels, which was disappointing for my daughter. The buffet breakfast was very good. There was a large selection of cold meats, cheeses, fresh fruits, croissants and breads. Good coffee and plenty of it. I would say the breakfast was excellent. We didn't try the hotel restaurant in the evening. The menu just didn't appeal. The advert had suggested that there was a good infrastructure in the immediate area, but we had to walk quite a way to find anything much. There are about 3 bars within a 5-10 minute walk. They do cheap tapas and beer. If you go further there is a nice restuarant called La Font where we ate well and cheaply. You will find that a smattering of Spanish will help you in this area, as it is less touristy and therefore the locals weren't too hot on English.
The air-conditioned tram into Barcelona city centre stopped both at the top and bottom of the road, the hotel is equidistant to both stops. The tram system is fantastic, buy a T-10 ticket on day one and you will not regret it. We also used the Renfe train which stops about 10-15 minutes walk away. It was a bit of a mission but we made it all the way to Sitges on the train. Which is so worth a visit!
We thought the small swimming pool was a little disappointing. It is a small pool, although there were only a very few people using it and this was 1st week of August, peak time. The sun-beds were a bit hard and not comfortable. No pool towels were available so take your own. There is no bar service at the pool.
Overall, I was pleased with this hotel. If it had been closer to the main centre then it would have been even better. But value for money it certainly was, and for this reason I would probably recommend it. Be prepared to walk a bit and use the very good public transportation system.
Chrissie Wade, UK
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