Hotel Costa Brava

I spent three blissful days at Hotel Costa Brava in mid-May, and it reminded me why hotels near the sea have clung to certain traditions: there’s nothing more timeless than waking to the scent of salt air. Our first-floor room, complete with a lovely balcony, felt like our own little retreat overlooking that endless blue ribbon of beach. The interiors are very nice: a mix of modern trendy with classic charm. Location couldn’t be better: a short stroll lands you in the heart of Platja d’Aro, while the Camí de Ronda path literally starts at the hotel’s doorstep: perfect for history buffs and walkers alike. Car users rejoice, too: parking is never an afterthought here (on-site spaces plus two nearby lots). Shout-out to the Reception team, who were super helpful and went out of their way to get us checked in swiftly. The only hiccup? For checkout, a woman stationed at a back-office desk kept asking the Receptionist (who was handling 2 couples and a family of guests) silly and non urgent things, which seemed to frazzle the Receptionist unnecessarily. Now, the breakfast. I respect a well-oiled buffet line as much as the next pilgrim to freshly baked croissants, but here the kitchen’s “warm trays” approach left the eggs and bacon feeling like relics from an earlier service: neither hot nor cold enough to satisfy purists. The spread was varied and the dining room divine (inside or on the terrace). Pastries and breads are delicious and the variety of jams and celiacs and vegan options are available. All said, Hotel Costa Brava blends that enduring seaside charm with an edge and unbeatable location.

What a lovely hotel! The views are outstanding, the rooms clean and fresh and the staff very friendly. We had dinner on the first night and it was superb; a set menu which included croquettas, fideuá and other local favourites. A really lovely hotel just far enough away from the bustle of town (but a 3 min walk in!) set between 2 beaches. Glorious!