Apartamentos Hesperia Bristol Playa

You get what you pay for. The rooms are very basic and could do with a proper deep clean, though we knew that when we booked. Staff were all pleasant and helpful. The pool area was a plus, with a spacious, clean pool, plenty of sun loungers whenever we wanted them, and a brilliant pool bar with the best staff.

We found the atmosphere really chilled and relaxing, and had a great ten-day stay. Our sea-view apartment was a little dated but clean, with a comfortable separate bedroom, wardrobes, and a safe you could pay to use, though we didn’t. The kitchen was enough for small meals and sandwiches. The bathroom had a walk-in shower and complimentary shampoo and body wash. The pool area was having some work done, but at least one of the two pools was always open. We tried the pool bar a couple of times, found the prices reasonable, and liked being able to relax there instead of taking the short walk into town. The on-site shop was handy, especially for fresh pastries and bread in the morning. They also made pizzas to order, though we didn’t try them. There was entertainment and karaoke in the on-site pub, and they showed football too. Our room was serviced once during the stay, which suited us fine. Reception staff were lovely, and we could ask them for towels. We’d definitely return.

We had a great week and the staff were brilliant. The pool bar was a good place to get drinks and snacks during the day, and the on-site shop had everything we needed. The rooms are basic, as you know before arriving, so don’t expect five-star luxury. If that’s what you want, you’ll need to go elsewhere and pay quite a bit more. We’d happily come back for the relaxed, unpretentious feel.

The location was really convenient: about ten minutes along the seafront to the harbour, or a shorter route through a couple of streets to Music Square. My room was clean and had everything I needed for five nights, though it looked a little dated. The pool bar was great for coffee in the morning, light meals and an afternoon drink. I liked the friendly atmosphere and the evening entertainment on the couple of nights I spent there. The small on-site supermarket was well stocked. I didn’t use the gym, so can’t comment on its equipment. My room was on the first floor, and the outside stairs had no handrails and could get quite slippery. Some of the pool-area tiles were slippery when wet too. I’d definitely return, it was great value for money.