Hostal Sahaba Zahora

We were a little worried by the reviews before our week-long stay, but our experience was great. The room was very clean, with a minibar and air conditioning, and the bed was comfortable. The shower worked well, with hot water and good pressure. The cleaner was friendly and helpful, and quickly sorted things whenever we needed something. Santiago at reception was a sweetheart who explained everything clearly and was very helpful. A few small details kept it from being five stars, like having nowhere to hang towels in the bathroom. The location is a bit far from the busiest area, though that's easy enough to manage by car.

We had low expectations after reading the negative reviews, but our four days at Sahaba Zahora turned out really well. The room was nice and very clean, and the hostel is well placed for reaching the beaches. A clothesline would help dry the towels and swimsuits we brought back each day. There also need to be hooks in the bathroom so towels can be hung up and reused. Even so, it was a great stay and I'd recommend it.

There was a lot of noise late into the night, with people arriving and carrying on partying in the early hours. The rooftop was covered in empty beer and cava bottles that looked as if they'd been there for ages. Some summer retreat. The room also smelled musty, and there was visible dampness. The closets were empty, and there were no towel hooks. The shower screen was badly placed, so water splashed across the bathroom floor. Parking is split between two areas: one space right by the entrance and another less than a minute's walk away, with plenty of room. If you use the first, inconsiderate drivers can block you in, leaving you waiting while hotel staff track them down. The hotel should manage on-site parking with proper signs.

It's 2:45 am as I'm writing this. An emergency light came on in the night and lit up the whole room as much as, maybe more than, the main light. There was no way to switch it off. We've been trying to sleep for two hours, but with that much light it's impossible. I attached a photo, I'm not exaggerating. The shower drains badly, and without a screen the water went everywhere. It's ridiculous that basic things like a place to sleep and a comfortable shower aren't taken care of. Such a beautiful, well-decorated building, but these problems really let guests down. €60 a night, wasted.