Hotel SJ

The breakfast has a nice selection, though it would be better with hot food like eggs or bacon. The juices aren't freshly squeezed and taste a lot like powder mixed with water. I also enjoy the old-fashioned feel of the lobby, bar, and lounge, with all the wood in the decor. The bar itself is cozy and the prices are reasonable. The staff are attentive, friendly, and efficient, and the location is great, with an amazing view from the window. The rooms could use some work: the beds aren't as comfortable as you'd expect, you can hear noise from next door and from the bathrooms, the bathrooms feel dated, and the TVs are too small to watch from bed. It's a shame there aren't more food options, since they don't serve full meals. Parking can be difficult when the hotel is full, even though the car park is big. For the price and quality, it's still a great hotel.

The jams at breakfast were a real treat, and the hotel's friendly service added a personal touch. The receptionist was keen to chat with me in English, and I got the impression he was still learning and happy to practise. Tondela itself has a familiar, welcoming feel, which made for a relaxed trip. I had a great time there, and Hotel SJ made the stay even better. I'd be glad to return.

The views are spectacular while still feeling private, and it's good value. The staff clearly take pride in their work, and both the rooms and pool are clean. Highly recommend.

The staff were brilliant, always friendly and helpful. Monica deserves a special mention because she went out of her way to sort out an issue with the wedding we had coming up. I stayed for two weeks with my Mum at the end of July 2022, in the run-up to my wedding, and would definitely come back. The room was a good size, spotlessly clean, and the bed and bedding were really comfortable. The AC worked well during the heatwave. The pool and grounds were beautifully kept, and the public areas were washed down every day. Breakfast was generous, with pastries, bread, meat, cheese, fruit, cereal, yoghurt, and eggs, plus machine coffee that wasn't bad and generous refills. They have good parking too. My only reason for not giving five stars is the limited food beyond breakfast, since there's no restaurant in the hotel. Next time I'll plan lunch and dinner better.