Estudio La Masía - A168

The apartment was basic but had the essentials, and the area was quiet with plenty of parking. La Masia is in a beautiful setting, though the building doesn't quite fit the landscape. It's very close to Roses and just a stone's throw from Cadaqués. The air conditioning in the listing was really a unit that barely cooled, plus a fan that only moved the hot air around. With sun on it all day, the apartment became an oven at any time. The hosts were polite, though I would have appreciated a more personal welcome. Check-in at 4:00 PM also cut into the day, but that was a minor issue. We hadn't brought sheets or towels, and they quickly arranged them for an extra charge. We appreciated having that option, even though it increased the cost. We booked through Airbnb. I don't recommend the place, though the price was reasonable for the area in August, peak season.

The highlight is the big pool, with lots of room to sunbathe. There's also a large parking lot with some shade, and a small elevator that's perfectly adequate. The resort has clearly seen better days, though. It's rather secluded, which makes it very quiet, and the beach is under a 10 minute drive away.

Everything you need is in this well-equipped complex: secure spacious parking, a huge pool, ping-pong, tennis and pétanque courts, plus a shared barbecue. I'd suggest choosing an east-facing, air-conditioned place to catch the sunrise. Shops and attractions are all within a 30-minute drive.

A quiet, well-kept location. Excellent.