MAGIC SPORTS

We asked by email if we could have a basketball-themed room, and they gave us exactly that. We can’t wait to return. The hotel was spotless, with water stops everywhere for filling bottles, and it was lovely to see the maintenance team taking apart the slides for upkeep, replacement, and cleaning. We visited in the off season for a quiet break, and it suited us perfectly. The indoor pool was so peaceful that we mostly had it to ourselves. The teens enjoyed the spa and the heat, and the gym had enough equipment for a good workout. Shops and the beautiful beach are both within walking distance. A lot of places were shut, but that didn’t matter for the relaxing holiday we wanted. It took 2 hours 35 minutes to drive from Barcelona Airport, so maybe fly to Valencia, but the long journey was worth it. It was all-inclusive, with food, drinks, and everything in the mini bar included. Spa use costs extra, and there’s a souvenir shop on site. Some staff spoke great English, though we tried to use some Spanish when ordering and asking questions. Most guests were older Spanish couples, like an active retirement home, which was just the pace we wanted. The downside came when a group of English people arrived and took over the indoor pool. They let their kids thrash about in the baby pool and handed them cups that made an even bigger mess. The kids splashed people who weren’t with them, and when they moved to the main pool, everyone else, including us, left because they were so noisy and disruptive. That kind of behaviour is why Spanish people don’t want tourists anymore. Thankfully, it didn’t happen the next day and the place was quiet again. I have no idea why this hotel gets any one-star reviews. Staff were friendly and helpful despite the language barrier, the food was delicious with something new every day, and the beach was beautiful. I’d highly recommend coming in the off season if you want to unwind.

We spent eight days here with my wife and friends, and came away a bit let down. The rooms were great, very clean, and each had a balcony. The downside was the TV: it offered streaming services, but none worked, so we were left with the Spanish channels. The hotel has plenty of amenities, including indoor and outdoor pools, a spa, and a gym, but most were shut during our off-season visit, which we’d expected after checking online. The outdoor pool was closed too. Check the weather before coming. We didn’t have a car, and with the whole area feeling like a ghost town, there wasn’t much to do nearby. Oropesa del Mar wasn’t much livelier. A few shops by the hotel at least sold snacks and souvenirs. Food was hit or miss, and the English labels for dishes were too. Since we were all-inclusive, the soft and alcoholic drinks were good, and the bar was open most of the day. The staff were kind and friendly, although sometimes the language barrier got in the way. It was an okay place to stay.

We had a lovely stay, with friendly, helpful staff. The food wasn’t excellent, but the hotel was good overall. I’d definitely come back once the season starts so we can use more of the facilities.

A big thank you to Javie, who spent the day getting guests involved by the pool. He kept everyone busy with games and dancing, and made the pool and bar area so much fun, including on bingo nights. The kids all love him, and he’s amazing with them. He’s fun and a great player, but he also keeps an eye on everyone in the pool to make sure we’re safe. That made my family feel we’d chosen the right hotel. Javie, great job, keep it up. You deserve to be a team leader. You’re a great example of professional, kind, open-minded leadership. I highly recommend this hotel!