SBH Royal Monica

We had a nice family stay in a clean, tidy hotel, though the rooms and building are due for refurbishment. I think every room has a balcony or terrace. Getting to the restaurant, pool bar, beach, and pool was easy, just a short walk, and there were plenty of sunbeds by the pool and beach. The location is right by the sea, and some rooms have amazing views. Staff were friendly and helpful, especially the animation team. The food was great, and drinks were good too, including Amstel beer, local wines, sangria, and cocktails. Playa Blanca centre is 5-7 minutes away by taxi, about €6-7 each way.

Angela at reception greeted me warmly after a long day travelling. She took my details, told me to leave my bags and get some food before the dining hall closed, and later helped me collect my luggage and get my room key. My room had been upgraded and was lovely and clean, with Wi-Fi, a fan in the lounge, and a fan and AC in the bedroom. During my stay, the staff were consistently friendly and professional. Mohammed noticed I was travelling on my own and stopped to chat, which I really appreciated. Reception were always helpful, and the room cleaners were lovely and kept the room to a high standard most days. The location is great, and you can walk to the bus stop in Faro in about 10 minutes, then catch a bus to Playa Blanca Marina for around €1.40. I loved having my own little cove for sunbathing, and the beach facilities were fab. The clubhouse was fun, though I didn’t use it much at night, preferring the bars and restaurants around the marina. The hotel is peaceful, and the stay gave me the reset I needed. If you want somewhere super lively, I’d choose closer to the marina or stay in PDC. The food was good, but the selection didn’t always suit my tastes. The local Hyper dino shop saved the day for snacks and things. I ate out most of the time, so if I stayed again I’d book room only. All-inclusive felt like a waste of money. I’d definitely recommend staying here!

We really enjoyed our stay and would happily book again. The staff were cheerful and helpful, the rooms spotless, the food selection huge and plentiful, and the quality excellent. I had paella for lunch most days, Canadian Rabbit Stew one day, and Canarian potatoes with mojo rojo and Verde every day, alongside plenty of salad, pasta, chicken, meat, and fish. There were German dishes too, like schnitzel and pork, so the claims that the food is only good if you’re French are rubbish. The pool was clean and spacious, and the pool bar served pizza, chips, and burgers at lunchtime. We had plenty of lager and cocktails there each day, and I’d disagree with anyone who says they’re watered down. It’s an older hotel and more tired than places like H10 Rubicon further down the promenade, but it’s a three-star hotel and good value for money given its position facing Lobos and Fuerteventura. In a sea-view room, you’re only the width of the promenade from the ocean. It’s in our favourite area of Lanzarote, away from the hustle and bustle, though the walk to the centre is liveable. If you want to be right in Playa Blanca, it may not suit you.

The food was nice and we had a lovely stay. A special mention for the man at reception, who I think was called Jesus. He was professional, helpful every time we needed him, and always had a smile. A real asset to the company 👌