NOMAD Hotel Xàbia Port

We had such a special stay at NOMAD Hotel in Xàbia (Javea). I planned it as a surprise for my husband Mike’s upcoming birthday, and the warm welcome from the lovely, smiley Alissia made me feel right away that it was going to be memorable. Her sister, who looked after us on the evening shift, was just as charming, though sadly I can't remember her name. Our room #15 was on the 4th floor, with a big balcony overlooking the sea and pedestrian promenade through large glass doors and windows. It was wonderfully quiet, and we enjoyed sitting outside at the table with the two chairs, especially for the spectacular sunrise. Inside, there was a large king size bed with very soft linens, a spacious walk-in shower with lovely natural lotions and soaps, and even a bathtub in the room. A welcome basket of snacks and purified water was waiting for us, and we were offered a drink in the lounge when we arrived. The hotel is near the port on the quieter stretch of the Xàbia coastline. Coming in feels more like arriving at a friend's home than checking into a traditional hotel. There's a comfy sofa and a table with chairs where you can sit and chat with your host while they sort things out, rather than a stuffy check-in desk. There's also a little shop in the lobby with products and special finds for sale. We could have ordered room service, but during our two night stay we went down each morning for coffee and tea. The fair trade coffee and chai tea were amazing, and pastries were available to buy too. We didn't eat at the onsite restaurant, though its menu looked great. Breakfast costs extra, so we skipped it. There's a SPA onsite as well. We each had a 50 minute massage with Alma, who's an amazing masseuse. I definitely recommend her. The rooftop bar, swimming pool, and terrace with lounge chairs are lovely spots to take in the views. I'm thrilled we found NOMAD and plan to return many more times. You don't need a birthday or another special occasion to feel very special there.

What stuck with me about the Nomad Hotel in Xàbia was the peaceful, simple feel of it. The sea and that quiet Mediterranean pace are right outside, while inside there are earthy colours, handmade details, and a real sense of craft. With the sun-washed stone and sea air, it almost feels like a postcard. More than anything, it gives you a chance to pause and enjoy how good simplicity can be.

My girlfriend and I had breakfast at the Nomad hotel and loved the decor and atmosphere. The staff were attentive, and their professionalism made the service feel very good. But I think the owner spoiled the experience. When one of the staff dropped a glass, the owner made cutting remarks at them, loudly enough for everyone to hear. These things happen. He didn't even check whether the waiter was okay, which seemed a very strange way to manage such a lovely team. It changed the mood immediately and left us very disappointed.

We were there this morning, right by the sea, with such good waves that the surfers were out. There's a great choice of breads, and the tomato on my tostada was some of the best I've had. The waiter was friendly and attentive, and the place is dog friendly. My dog even got a treat bag when we left. Definitely stop here for breakfast. We'll be back.