Castilla Termal Balneario de Olmedo

Breakfast had lots of choices and was delicious. For lunch or dinner, the cafeteria is the better option, though it's pricey. The restaurant felt expensive for its small portions and limited menu. There isn't really anything nearby, not even a restaurant rated above 4.4. The hotel feels geared toward retirees. Younger guests may find it boring and not very relaxing. Staff were friendly, and someone who spoke English was always around, which made communication easy, but reception was slow and inflexible. Room cleaning at 9 a.m. seemed ridiculous, especially with only 30 other guests there from Sunday to Tuesday. Pool spaces had to be reserved for 5-7 p.m. or 7-9 p.m., despite the low guest count, and swim caps were required, like it was 1952. At least the pool attendant or lifeguard didn't seem to care. It was okay for what we needed, but I wouldn't pick it for a special trip.

The full body massage was one of the best I've had, and my wife and I could have our tandem massage in the same room. The sauna area tour was also very good and worth the price, with a helpful guide. We stayed Sunday through Thursday and found it peaceful and relaxing. The thermal pool was well managed, with access handled in a way that worked for everyone. A lovely, quiet hotel spa, friendly and well run. Highly recommended, and thanks to all the staff.

For over 200 a night, we ended up in a city with very little to do. Olmedo seems to have had its heyday about 500 years ago, so sightseeing isn't really the reason to come. The hotel appeared to assume nobody would visit, then seemed unprepared when people did. In my life, I'd never queued for breakfast before, especially at a hotel with 80(?) rooms. We stayed two days and couldn't get a Spa slot or any treatments. Staff just smiled and said they were fully booked, as if this had caught them by surprise. They should plan for busy weekends. What a joke.

The meal was excellent, and our waitress was one of the best I've ever had. It was a private luncheon, with each course brought out right on time. The grounds were beautifully kept and inviting. I hope to return soon and enjoy the rest of the amenities.