Hotel La Maga Rooms

We were worried after reading some bad reviews, but our stay was entirely positive. Maybe a few bad American Karen's were expecting five-star treatment from a budget-friendly place. For us, it was great value, with a modern interior, comfortable bed, helpful and friendly staff, and breakfast included. It worked well for a short layover. The location was handy too, about 100m uphill to a great city view and 500m downhill to the main plaza and good food.

We only stayed one night, and I don’t think we’d return. I was there with my two-year-old son, and the stairs made getting around extremely difficult. The rooms are right beside the castle, but the climb up the hill is steep. Reception is reached by steep stone steps with no handrail, impossible with a pram or wheelchair. Our room had the same steps, so lifting the luggage, child and pram up was a struggle. I wouldn’t recommend it to older people or anyone needing pram or wheelchair access. The room was clean, and I’d asked in writing for a cot several days ahead; they’d agreed. I expected it to be ready, but the very nice cleaning lady hadn’t been told and had to fetch and assemble it while we waited. She was also friendly and worked hard. The owner was nowhere around, and there was no welcome or goodbye. As I was leaving, I found a handwritten note on my door asking for my phone number and address and telling me to drop the note at reception. There was nobody at reception during the two days I was there. It felt unprofessional and odd not to see the owner. The castle is the only convenient thing about the location. There was nowhere close to buy water, which was a problem when I badly needed some on a roasting day. The room did have tea-making facilities. Everything else was walkable, but quite a walk. I wouldn’t want to face an emergency there, with no one at reception to help and hardly anyone around. There’s a lot to improve in this “hotel.” I was glad it was just my son and me. I wouldn’t have wanted to share the room with a partner or friend because the toilet has no door, so there’s no privacy. It also felt unhygienic and embarrassing for guests, and leaves people in a strange position. You’d at least expect to be able to shut a door and use the toilet privately.

It was okay once we managed to find the place. A fridge would have been useful.

The price is really good, and the place feels authentic. Rooms are clean and simple, with air-conditioning, and the service was great. The people were very friendly. There’s plenty of interest within walking distance. Parking at the property is limited, but there’s public parking nearby. I’d recommend staying here.