Albergue Isla Del Fraile

Everything else was great. The place is a lovely, comfortable hostel, and I liked both the building and its facilities. In winter, though, the blankets felt far too thin. I had to use four and was still a bit cold, so thicker blankets or heating would help.

The owners are lovely and were very accommodating when I needed something at short notice. It’s a great option in a town where hotel choices are limited, especially on this side. I stay here when I rent an apartment nearby through Airbnb, and it feels more like an apartment than a hostel, with large rooms. Rooms are sometimes shared, but they usually try to give you one to yourself if there’s space. It’s right by the beach, about a two-minute drive or ten-minute walk, and there are pádel and tennis courts plus a short golf course on site. The EU Mediterranean cycle route passes right by, and cyclists can store their bikes safely indoors. One tip: the vending machine coffee is some of the best I’ve had, especially the chocolate drinks. Honestly, it beats plenty of chain coffee places in the UK 😂😂. Enjoy your stay!

After more than three weeks, I got a message saying I hadn’t paid and asking me to send the money. I transferred it promptly, but mistakes like that shouldn’t become the guest’s responsibility. When I complained, I received the same message as the reply posted here. I didn’t get one sincere, kind apology. If I’d received an apology, I wouldn’t have written a bad review. Why welcome guests from all over the world if you don’t want to show them hospitality? I’m not asking for perfection. I want to feel that I’m getting value as a guest when I pay for my stay. If €19 isn’t enough, the rates could be adjusted or the hostel managed better. Next time I may book an apartment if I’d rather not see anyone and check in through a WhatsApp message. There were no staff members when I arrived, and check-in was handled only by WhatsApp. I also got no information about checking out. To make matters worse, the bed I was assigned was already occupied, and I had to prepare it myself. The lack of communication and organization made for a disappointing stay at Hostal Isla de Fraile.

We ended up feeling like we were in a prison: 14 beds in one room, all occupied, and just one twin bed for two of us. Our Booking reservation was for two twin beds for four people, with a picture showing a room with two twin beds and a double bed. We asked for another bed, but the place was full, so four of us had to share a bed meant for two. They also wanted an extra €60 because four of us slept there. A very bad experience.