El Griego Hotel - Torremolinos
Operator and Date: 2can travel - 2007
Opinion submitted in August 2007 by : Judith Penrose - Devon 42,41,16,13
Resort Rating: Excellent
Accommodation Rating: Very Good
My/Our Holiday Review:
The hotel was clean, rooms basic but clean. You don't spend your holiday in the room. Wide range of good food. We went all inclusive and would go back to this hotel again.
If your mad about going to the beach maybe this is not the hotel for you, but we mainly stayed by the pool. We had a great holiday.
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El Griego Hotel - Torremolinos
Operator and Date: Travel city - May 2006
Opinion submitted in July 2006 by : Andrew Addiscott - RCT ( 38, 34)
Resort Rating: Average
Accommodation Rating: Good
My/Our Holiday Review:
Hotel was confortable and clean with lots of amenities. Food was plentiful and often of good quality and tended to have a wide variety of choice. All staff were friendly and well manered. All inclusive is good value for money. Only dispointment is the evening entertainment which was of poor quality.
The resort itself is a typical bustling spanish tourist resort that is common throughout spain, plenty of english bars, international restaurants and cafes. the downside is that the resort is built on a cliff top, with a lift taking you up and down to the beach, or steps if you are energetic. the hotel is about a 20 minute walk to the beach via the steps or lift. For the energetic ones on the beach front there is a lovely promiade walk all the way to Belemadina and beyond. Watch for the touts and people handing out tickets they are a pain in the perverbial.
Andrew.
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El Griego Hotel - Torremolinos
Operator and Date: Direct travel
Opinion submitted in June 2006 by : Anne & Alan - Cumbria (59,63)
Resort Rating: Average
Accommodation Rating: Average
My/Our Holiday Review:
The hotel was Quite nice and our room had been refurbished The food was just ok nothing special. The thing that spoiled our time there was a stag weekend, and a football team, both very noisy and swearing a lot it was supposed to be a family but no way would i take my family there, the guests were mostly spanish the staff were very helpful and pleasant.The transfer was very quick only 10 mins from airport
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El Griego Mar - Torremolinos
Operator and Date: Teletext Holidays July 2007
Opinion submitted in August 2007 by : Kenny 49 Sylvia 48
Resort Rating: Poor
Accommodation Rating: Good
My/Our Holiday Review:
Hi not long back from Torremolinos
we stayed in the hotel griego mar
hotel was good food was fine
rooms were cleaned daily tho we did not have a pool view just a view of the street as we at the front of the hotel
we were half board most others were all inclusive and boy did we suffer
wen we went to the bar for drinks all inclusives got priority seemed like they didnt want our money as we had to pay for our drinks
and to cap it all bar closed at midnight so we couldn.t get a nightcap if we had been out in the evening
resort is filthy, dog mess everywhere they just didnt care about cleanliness
spent most of our time in benalmadina such a difference, clean and lots of restaurantsand loads of shops
no nighttime entertainment in torremolinos
local bars say that is because of the all inclusive hotels
went to mijas for a day
heaven on earth there
lots of craft shops stunning views and donkey rides through the town
so relaxing
first time ever to torremolinos and probably the last usually go to benidorm
such a contrast
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El Pinar Hotel - Torremolinos
Operator and Date: july 2007
Opinion submitted in August 2007 by : sean kinsella - west sussex (42,39,15,13,11,6)
Resort Rating: Very Good
Accommodation Rating: Very Good
My/Our Holiday Review:
The hotel spotless, the rooms very spacious and maids very polite and extremely efficient.Entertainment in the evenings was good, but the entertainment organiser was useless! there was nothing for kids to do and the facilities very dated.The "gym" was a room which had a bike, few sets of dumbells and not much else, not very inspiring.....
The hotel is well out of the way and the shuttle bus, although very punctual, it only ran for a fraction of the day, so majority of the time relied on taxi s to bring you back to the hotel..7 euros a ti
me soon mounts up!!!
I must add, however, the bus driver was a fantastic man who was extremely helpful.
The restaurant was uninviting, the staff rude, miserable and not very helpful. The food was absolutely awful., infact it was disgusting! it was bland, cold and repetitive! the tables were never set and you had to find your own cutlery. drinks were very expensive.I cannot stess how horrible the food was, so if i revisited the el pinar i would definately go self catering in one of the appts.
The pools were good and the life gaurds a nice bunch.The pool bar was expensive and the food choice was limited to toasted sandwiches or under cooked burgers.
Dont know if we would go back to the el pinar hotel, but would stay in torremolinos resort because it has great shops and the locals very nice, friendly and beaches are good.
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El Pinar Hotel - Torremolinos
Operator and Date: Travex- July 2007
Opinion submitted in July 2007 by : Emma & Becky 28, 27
Resort Rating: Good
Accommodation Rating: Poor
My/Our Holiday Review:
The hotel is very old and basic,the hotel is way out of main resort, the food is disgusting and the hotel should not be classed as 4 star.
We have never stopped in a 4 star hotel that offers such poor quality badly cooked food. Neither have we stopped in a hotel where you have to go to a counter and purchase your drinks with your evening meal. Surely a 4* hotel should have waiter service?
The pool is closed until approx 10.00 am and there are limited loungers. The noise of the major road running along side the hotel is enough to put you off sunbathing on hotel complex.
The resort is good with plenty to do for all age groups.
My advice is to book a different hotel and one closer to resort centre.
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El Pinar Hotel - Torremolinos
Operator and Date: Flyglobespan - Mar 2006
Opinion submitted in Mar 2006 by : Aileen Geddes - Lanarkshire (40,39):
Resort Rating: Poor
Accommodation Rating: Poor
My/Our Holiday Review:
We arrived at the Hotel El Pinar on a 4* half-board allocated on arrival holiday with Flyglobespan, what a disappointment that was. When booking this holiday, I was told that we would be sent to one of the 4* hotels on their site, which all looked great.
We were dropped of by the coach at the bottom of a steep hill as the coach driver said that he could not get the bus up the hill. The hill was steep and a few elderly people on the coach struggled with their cases.
The staff who greeted us were not very pleasant, and their English was not very good. There was no offer to take the cases to our rooms as has been the case in other 4* hotels we have stayed in.
Although there were 4 lifts, they only took 4 people each, even the ones that said that they could take 13; this was a problem for people with heavy cases.
When we got to the room, we were pleasantly surprised. The room was quite large and light and airy. The maid came in every day and cleaned the whole room very well and changed the towels daily.
The meals, well that was an experience. It was a game of guess what was for dinner every night. The food was bland, looked disgusting and tasted even worse. The worst meal must have been the veal stew, or the Hungarian Goulash(the Veal Stew with Paprika added). The food was cold, no matter what time you went down to eat.
Most nights we had to clear a table and go hunting for clean cutlery to enable us to have our dinner, as there were only 1 or 2 people clearing the tables.
The meals served repeated themselves constantly, and the sweets never changed, and the fruit was always bashed and spoiled.
We had to laugh, you had to show a card every night to get in to the restaurant, but honestly, no one in their right mind would want to eat in the restaurant if they didn't have to.
We didn't have the luxury of going somewhere else for dinner, as that was a big problem with this hotel, it is miles from anywhere. There are no shops, bars or restaurants near the hotel. The nearest were in the resort itself which was a 20-30 minute walk away or 40 minutes if you wanted to go to the beach.
The free bus from the hotel was a godsend, but it only ran at certain times, 10am - 1.15 and then 6pm - 9.20pm.
The hotel itself was rather dated, with cracks all over the exterior and interior of the building, broken tiles around the gardens, filthy sun loungers and rusty chairs in the gardens.
Half way through the holiday, the garden and pool area were covered with rat poison, this could have proved very dangerous for any children playing in this area.
This hotel ranged at times from feeling like a retirement home for Spanish O.A.P.s to a Youth Hostel. The hotel seemed to play host to various groups of people who only seemed to say a night or two. The O.A.P.s were the first, then there was a group of 120 Spanish kids who were in the area for a basketball tournament. Their ages ranged from about 6 or seven upwards. These kids were placed in rooms all over the hotel, unsupervised. We had a group of 5 on one side and another group on the other side. They ran riot all over the hotel till about 3am in the morning, phoning all the rooms in the hotel, some had also to be removed from the roof.
I have never been in a 4* hotel that would have accommodated these groups or put up with this behaviour.
This hotel may be billed as a 4* hotel and it may very well have 4 stars on it's roof, but I would certainly dispute this fact. When I complained to flyglobespan, I was told that they had not received any complaints, but I very much doubt that this is the truth, as nearly every British person we spoke to complained about this hotel, and mostly the complaints were about the food.
The resort itself appeared rather tired and dated, and the route back to the hotel from the town was very run down. This is my first visit to this resort, I will certainly not be going back to the El Pinar, and I doubt if I would go back to torremolinos itself.
We did walk along to Benalmadena marina; it was lovely there, more modern and a lot cleaner.
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El Pinar Hotel - Torremolinos
Operator and Date: 2006
Opinion submitted in June 2006 by : Wendy Pippa Miah Jade. 50.15.2x14
Resort Rating: Average
Accommodation Rating: Good
My/Our Holiday Review:
The hotel rooms and apartments are a worth the 4* rating.
Big white, fluffy bath towels and plenty of them. As much shampoo and shower gel as you want. Bed linen was clean, crisp and cotton. Some furniture looking tierd but understandable for a hotel on this grande scale.
Plenty of entertainment, especially for teenagers. Three nice pools.
Food diabolical but there is a local supermarket.
Curtesy coach - the driver can't do enough to please, very plesant man and always on time.
Steep hill to reception - not for the infirm.
We paid 160 euros for 2 nights, 4 guests. That takes some beating! Holidays are what you want to make of them. Complainers should do more research before they book if they have greater expectations.
Get into the town, you can shop till you drop but be careful about using small cambio's (exchange)you'll be well ripped off with exchange rates.
We would return.
Enjoy!
Wendy.
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El Pinar Hotel - Torremolinos
Operator and Date: Globespan -Xmas 2005
Opinion submitted in Dec 2005 by : Mick,Helen-Glasgow(56,55)
Resort Rating: Very Good
Accommodation Rating: Very Good
My/Our Holiday Review:
The Globespan Rep at the airport said before she left us.."Where you get dropped off at your Hotel,is where you picked up coming back".Sounded ok until you arrived at the Pinar!You get dropped off at the bottom of a steep hill and you have to drag your cases up it.Not for the unfit.
Hotel accomodation is good.The general staff are nice friendly people.Towels,hot water etc.but this hotel is not for anybody with walking difficulties whatsoever.
The food is bland,boring ,repetitive and you start to lose your confidence in even eating it.This was a generally held feeling by all the Brits there.We would never go back there under any circumstances.We did book a 4*star HB AOA but would not describe this place as one.It creeps up slowly on you of how bad that restaurant is.Beware,if not convinced, and take some immodium with you.
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El Pinar Hotel - Torremolinos
Operator and Date: Med Hotels - December 2005
Opinion submitted in Dec 2005 by : John Terrans- Karen Terrans 50, 44
Resort Rating: Excellent
Accommodation Rating: Below Average
My/Our Holiday Review:
We stayed at the El Pinar 24th - 28th December.
We have been to Torremolinos a few times staying at the Cervantes Hotel in the town centre.
The El Pimar probably gets it's 4* rating from the facilities but definitely not the food! One guest likened it to the 'Bush Tucker Trial'
It is a 15 min walk into town and not to taxing or you can take the courtesy bus (free) to the beach or town. The rooms are large and on the whole,bright and airy. If you wish to loose a bit of weight with the walking and poor food, this is definitely the place.
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El Pinar Hotel - Torremolinos
Operator and Date: Globespan 20/12/05-27/12/05
Opinion submitted in Dec 2005 by : Norrie ross and wife Helen age 59
Resort Rating: Average
Accommodation Rating: Poor
My/Our Holiday Review:
Just returned from this hotel. Someone must have been joking when they gave this a four star rating.
The rooms were good and well cleaned by the maid daily, who actually did clean it, not swipe it with a mop.
The free bus service into town was very useful and bang on time etc.
This is where it does not just go down hill, it falls into a pit.
The food was atrocious and the restaurant was so short staffed that we always had to lift dishes from tables and then set them ourselves, and if we wanted dishes taken, you've guessed it do it yourself.
One evening I had to ask for bread an hour into a two and a half hour mealtime. Manana bread will come.
We also saw this happening with the sweets which were limited anyway, and same answer.
Breakfast on our last day (the scrambled eggs were burnt) was interupted by a huge cockroach running across the plates, which one evening were in such short supply that queues were building up.
Our rep never came near the hotel or was on the bus on the way back to the airport. She must have known what to expect.
It was so bad that people were cutting short their holidays and going home a week early.
I've used Globespan before and had excellent service and holidays. Our flights left and returned bang on time, and were more spacious than other holiday companies when it came to legroom, but if this is considered by them to be a four star hotel it has caused severe doubts as to whether we will ever use them again.
Sorry for you if you have booked this place, if you haven't yet I wouldn't recommend it.
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El Pinar Hotel - Torremolinos
Operator and Date: Independant - November 2005
Opinion submitted in Dec 2005 by : Jenny, Jean, Hilda, Pauline (54,57,52,60)
Resort Rating: Excellent
Accommodation Rating: Very Good
My/Our Holiday Review:
This was our second visit to the El Pinar, this year we stayed in a 2 bedroom apartment.
The livingroom was very small but the balcony was huge. All in all it was adequate for the 4 nights we stayed there. This year the hotel had an animations person, Segio, he really puts everything into his job. Although the hotel was quite busy hardly anyone took part in the games and competitions that Sergio organised. The Bingo was hilarious, Sergio had to repeat everything in Spanish and English and his 1 fat lady taking a little duck for a walk in a park was 82. I urge anyone going to the El Pinar to take part in the games, you won't regret it as Sergio even makes Rifle Shooting a lot of fun. The hotel staff were all very pleasant and when we asked for more towels at 9.30pm, as there weren't enough for 4 adults, by the time we got to our apartment at 10.30pm the towels were there.
The courtesy bus is a real bonus, always on time and great for getting into Torremolinos and the beach. The apartments don't have kettles, one reason being that guests have pinched them in the past, but we were told by someone who lives in Spain that the water tends to rot the element quicker than here in the UK.
We were self catering and found that it pays to take a walk to Lydle Supermarket on the first day to buy everything you might need (bottled water, soft drinks etc), it is very cheap, and get a taxi back at a cost of 5 euros, the staff in the supermarket even call a taxi for you. Lydles is out of the hotel, bottom of the hill turn right and walk for 5 - 10 minutes.
We found the Chinese restaurant on the Calle San Miguel, (on the left side going down towards the beach) excellent value at 5.99 euros for 3 course meal during the day and 1 euro more at night.
I booked us through 'findspainrooms.com.' and the flights through
'Thomson Holidays
fly' the whole package including taxis to and from the airport
in Spain cost us £79 each.
We will definately go back next year to the El Pinar and hopefully Sergio will still be there calling his unique Bingo.
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El Pinar Hotel - Torremolinos
Operator and Date: travelox-august 2005
Opinion submitted in Aug 2005 by : 14,17,35,41
Resort Rating: Excellent
Accommodation Rating: Very Good
My/Our Holiday Review:
Didnt expect much after reading what others had said,but wasnt dissapointed.
We were in selfcatering appts,glad we weren't in hotel,everyone said food was terrible!Our appart was big,clean,had a lovely view.maids in everyday.The shuttle bus is regular and free.We did walk home from town and beachfront in evening afew times and enjoyed the walk,even the kids didnt mind walking.We timed it and it only took 15 mins,we werent walking that quick!You just have to find the shortcuts!Asked for a room the day we were going home expecting to pay for it,but they let all their guests have one free of charge.We pre booked the jacuzzi for the whole two wks we were there but never managed to get in it.it was forever broken.
All in all,we would go back to this resort and hotel.If you're all booked up and ready to go and worried,dont be.Go and see for yourselves.
Chill and enjoy,u r on holiday!
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El Pinar Hotel - Torremolinos
Operator and Date: (Thomas Cook Direct) Thomas Cook - July 2005
Opinion submitted in Sept 2005 by : amy - 19
Resort Rating: Below Average
Accommodation Rating: Good
My/Our Holiday Review:
Torremolinos was awfull very scruffy and didnt feel very safe when walking around. We spent most of our time in Benalmadina which is lovely and the harbour is beautiful and has some nice restraunts along the front you can sit in and watch the boats and the world go by. (taxi was around 11 euros each way)
The hotel on the other hand was very nice and had good facilities and two large pools and a small super market. Our room was ok had bath and shower but no balcony and was a little bit scruffy but it was clean and the beds were comfy it had a Tv and a telephone. the hotel was not in a great location it was a 20 - 30 minute walk to the centre of torremolinos (not worth the effort) We went to the water park which was expensive but fun and also ona boat ride from benalmadina harbour this was great value only 25 euros for two and a half hour trip with a free drink (beer, wine or juice)
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El Pinar Hotel - Torremolinos
Operator and Date: travellox - July 2005
Opinion submitted in Aug 2005 by : Ashley Knighton - northamptonshire
Resort Rating: Excellent
Accommodation Rating: Very Good
My/Our Holiday Review:
Just got back from el pinar hotel and we had a wonderful time. Me and my family were staying in the apartment half of the complex which is self catering. The apartments are very clean and spacious. There are two main beds in the bedroom, the sofa in the kichen/living room and a pull out bed in the kitchen/living room. There is one problem with the pull out bed. Its only suitable for 7 year olds because its not long enough. Other than that very comfatable. The bathrooms are lovely. A double sink, huge mirror and very well decorated. The rooms are well decorated but not exactly home. you get a view of the swimming pool or the mountains. either way lovely views.
The hotel had two main swimming pools. One big and one small. They were the best pools i have ever swam in. There is not one cracked tile and not one dirty tile. The bad thing about the pool area is theres not enough sunbeds. People were putting there towels on the sunbeds at 5 in the morning which is taking the mic! Also theres not enouh sunbeds. We never saw a sunbed free during the day.
The hotel has a jacuzzi, sawna and gym. We booked the jacuzzi and sauna 8 times during our stay and not once were they working. In the end we gave up. Staff are very friendly but not enough staff around. The Apartment lifts are very weird. They seem like they are going to snap they are so creeky. The entertainment was so boring. every night a man playing an organ to about 3 people. not to everyones taste. The people in the hotel half of the complex didnt seem to be to happy with there holiday because of the half board resturant. People told us the food was disguisting. We looked on the menu to see what people were eating and there was alot of fish meats like salmon and squid. we were happy we were self catering. The hotel does a free bus service to the town centre which has lots of resturants and shops. It also takes you to the beach front which also has lots of resturants. The bus runs every 20 or 30 mins or hourly. you can get a timetable from reception. I would rate this hotel 3plus because it hasnt got the extra boost for a 4 star hotel.
If i went to torremolinos again i definately would return to the el pinar.
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El Pinar Hotel - Torremolinos
Operator and Date: Travel Ox - July 2005
Opinion submitted in July 2005 by : Mr Turnbull - Leeds (63, 60)
Resort Rating: Below Average
Accommodation Rating: Poor
My/Our Holiday Review:
The hotel is clean without a doubt. The foold is absolute rubbish. The location is much too far from the resort approximately 30 mins walk. The only pleasant person is the courtesy bus driver, he is great.
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El Pinar Hotel - Torremolinos
Operator and Date: easy jet june 2005
Opinion submitted in June 2005 by : joan and andy williams liverpool 39,35,12,05
Resort Rating: Average
Accommodation Rating: Good
My/Our Holiday Review:
just got back from el pinar the rooms were clean maid service excellent the resort is mainly for couples age 50+ hotel entertainment was poor spanish acts mainly my kids were board no dancing the large pool area was to shaded by the trees you have to que up each day to get the best sun bed area or you didnt get the sun untill 2pm 7 days is enough time in this resort went to water park it was good 7 euro in a cab you have to rent a sun bed when you get there 3.50 euro
dont think we would rush to get back to this resort again needs an english invasion of entertainers before i would go back
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El Pinar Hotel - Torremolinos
Operator and Date: Holiday City - March 2005
Opinion submitted in Apr 2005 by : Mary Moore- Birmingham (53,58)
Resort Rating: Average
Accommodation Rating: Good
My/Our Holiday Review:
After reading the reviews we decided to keep an open mind and judge for ourselves.
The hotel is up a slight incline which in all fairness not too bad. The rooms was spotless, clean towels daily and maid service every day. The Hotel provides a shuttle bus to the town every half hour which is always prompt, this stops at 8.30pm but then theres always the local bus which is 1 euro. The hotel entertainment was all geared for the Spanish. The pool was lacking in sun beds, they put more out in the summer, they actually closed the big pool while we were their to do work on it so that spoilt it as the weather was hot.
Now, the food, this was appalling. We did think it couldnt be as bad as the reviews we'd read but it was. There was not a good choice at any time, it was always cold. Breakfast was not too bad. After the first few days you suddenly start feeling very discontented with the food,as for us we stopped going for evening meal. We were determined this was not going to spoil our holiday.
The holiday was enjoyed but we will not go back
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El Pinar Hotel - Torremolinos
Operator and Date: fleetwood - feb 2005
Opinion submitted in Mar 2005 by : Natalie-Louise (17) Katie(17)
Resort Rating: Excellent
Accommodation Rating: Excellent
My/Our Holiday Review:
Our holiday was booked extremley last minute and after reading reviews about the hotel, we were quite anxious about what sort of hotel we might be staying in, so we went expecting the worst. howver when we arrived we discovered that we were only a 5 minute taxi ride from the airport and from the front the hotel looked attractive.
the reception area was spacious and well maintained and the staff were pleasant. our room was ready when we arrived. we stayed in a studio on the 5th floor of the apartment block, which was extremley high up. the room was quite small but extremley clean and tidy and comfortably big enough for the two of us. The maid cleaned the room everyday and was really nice, she even taught us abit of spanish!
the hotel is quitefar from torremilinos centre and i certainley wouldn't recommend walking it. the bus stops right outside the hotel and is cheap and regular. also the metro station is just over the road too.
torremolinos itself was nice but most nights we went to benalmadena which had a better more lively atmosphere. there weren't many other english people in the hotel and mostly old spanish people! i would definatley stay in this hotel again! the weather was brilliant, the staff were friendly and the rooms were bright and airy. the only problem with the hotel is the lifts in the apartment block!!
i cant wait to go back to this hotel again and would definatley recommend it!!!!
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El Pinar Hotel - Torremolinos
Operator and Date: Independent travellers - January 2005
Opinion submitted in Feb 2005 by : Lin & Tom Palmer Elcock Sandra & John Bromley all 50's
Resort Rating: Good
Accommodation Rating: Very Good
My/Our Holiday Review:
After booking this hotel we read the reviews and were very concerned as they were generally not good. We have to disagree we had a lovely 2 bedroom apartment with all mod cons - and a balcony which was big enough for a dance overlooking the beautiful view. We only had 3 nights but the area is brilliant - a stretch of coast very easy to access both by train and bus,
we will certainly visit again.
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El Pinar Hotel - Torremolinos
Operator and Date: independent Jan 2005
Opinion submitted in Jan 2005 by : G. Evangeli (35,38)
Resort Rating: Good
Accommodation Rating: Good
My/Our Holiday Review:
The hotel room was very spacious and cleaned daily, staff were friendly and helpful.
Restaurant was well maintained as the hotel was full,every nationality there,this is not an exclusive english hotel so,obviously the food is not fish fingers and chips every night,Thank God!
We found the food edible and choice was still good considering I don't eat meat,fussy eaters and children probably would find it hard, you can get a full english every morning,cereal,fruit and the cold meats etc...
The hotel itself is probably a average 3 star as it does not have that little extra luxury to make it 4 star.
Free bus very good for beach and shops but,we hopped on the number 1 bus,outside hotel, runs every 15 mins to Benalmadena, must go to the marina,fab!! and takes you to 24hr Square for nightlife,the best bit is it runs till 2am weekdays and all night weekends for 95 cents.No need for a taxi!!
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El Pinar Hotel - Torremolinos
Operator and Date: flyglobespan - 2005
Opinion submitted in Aug 2005 by : jacqueline donnelly - dumbarton (35,34,15,11)
Resort Rating: Average
Accommodation Rating: Below Average
My/Our Holiday Review:
we booked the 'el pinar', after reading some reviews + decided it didn't sound too bad. we were looking for an affordable last minute holiday for a family of 4. when we first arrived, we didn't think it looked that bad, until we got to our apartment. it definately was not the 4 star accomodation, we had booked.
the floor was marked, walls + skirtings were dirty + plaster was coming of the walls, to list a few things. we have been told that some of the hotels/apartments have been modernised, unfortunately ours was not.we phoned our rep, who the following morning moved us to 3 star apartments in benalmadina (what a difference).
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El Pinar Hotel - Torremolinos
Operator and Date: SELF BOOKED INTERNET - 2004 / 2005
Opinion submitted in June 2005 by : Graham Hart 58,Florence Hart 54
Resort Rating: Very Good
Accommodation Rating: Good
My/Our Holiday Review:
We booked our own flights and picked the hotel because it was 4 star thinking it would be quite good with reasonable food,it was a long way from the centre of town allthough there was a free bus which ran to the centre and onto the beach front,the rooms were very good,cleaned to a high standard,as was the rest of the hotel.
thats were it ends,the food was disgusting,nearly allways cold and a very poor choice,allthough the spanish and french must have thought it was ok as there plates were allways full,all i can say about that is they must have very poor meals were they come from.the cockroaches in the dining room really didn't give us a good appetite anyway,
the night entertainment was also very poor,nothing for the kids to do at night and being so far from town they couldn't go out as the bus finnished at 8-30 into town but no return,which meant a taxi or bus to return.
all in all its a Hotel i would not go back to.
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El Pinar Hotel - Torremolinos
Operator and Date: December 2004
Opinion submitted in Jan 2005 by : Martin Leaver (48,48,18)
Resort Rating: Average
Accommodation Rating: Poor
My/Our Holiday Review:
Whent to this hotel for Christmas, the hotel it self is OK and the bedrooms are large and clean. The food was bland and cold and there was only two waiters to see to guests from 900 plus rooms.
The bar area was the same with two members of staff to serve everyone and collect and wash glass,s which ment that most of the time the tables and the bar were covered in full ash trays and dirty glasses. We have been away for Xmas for the past 10 years and have always had some sort of gala meal and entertainment, not here the entertainment for 7 days was a man with a keyboard playing music mainley for the local Spanish over sixtys, plus one night a parrot show which lasted for 15 minutes.
Even though the hotel was full some areas of the hotel remaind closed like the area around the pool for sunbathing and other bar areas. We found a great Irish bar at the front called the Irish affair.
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El Pinar Hotel - Torremolinos
Operator and Date: Internet - Sept 2004
Opinion submitted in Oct 2004 by : Tracy/ Pam 30's !!
Resort Rating: Average
Accommodation Rating: Average
My/Our Holiday Review:
We read the reviews as well after booking and went with an open mind. Here's what we thought.
No it isn't 4 star more 2/3, but then we hadn't payed 4 star prices at about £25 each a night B & B.
The Hill is more a 30 second slope to the main doors.
The rooms were very clean and perfectly adequate. Although our aircon didn't seem to make much difference.
The food was ok but nothing to shout about.
The staff were polite and helpful.
Their are actually 2 pools (so reading one review they obviously didn't look abit further for the other). One small and one very large, noise from the road is buffered by lots of trees.
Alot of the bars/snack areas were shut when we got there as I suppose it was end of season. So can't comment on that.
We went out in the evening as the entertainment wasn't to our taste and I think most people did this.
The free bus makes up for the distance just get your timings right and you won't have to cough up much in fares !
As for Torremolinos, it's on the costas what do people expect a traditional Spain? Bars/resturants/shops and a pretty good beach all purpose built.
Nice for an out of season break and at an affordable price.
Go expecting 4 star luxury and you'll be disapointed, go expecting a good price for reasonable accomodation you won't be disappointed !
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El Pinar Hotel - Torremolinos
Operator and Date: flyglobespan - sept 2004
Opinion submitted in Sept 2004 by : Thomson Holidays
(29,37)
Resort Rating: Below Average
Accommodation Rating: Below Average
My/Our Holiday Review:
when we arrived at hotel we had to walk up a hill to hotel with luggage. We were s/c the room was very clean but basic no work surfaces and a 2 ring hob no kettle or toaster etc... the air con which was free was very noisy like having a taxi in bed with you.
There is a free bus from hotel to centre and beach which was ok other than that you have to rely on public transport and taxi's. The bus fare was 95cents taxi fare is 6euros. In the resort itself there is not a lot except shops selling leather goods, perfume shops same price as back home cheaper at duty free, cigs and shoes.
Alot of eating places speciallity's being fish, fish and more fish. I would highly recommend going to the el ranchito its a horse show its excellent watching the horses.Trip to Gibralter is a good day out book with local shops its cheaper. Holiday was okay if you want to relax and shop wouldn't go back to the el pinar though very far out from town centre. The swimming pool was very small and not alot of sun loungers.
Felt the resort didn't offer much in the way of entertainment...
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El Pinar Hotel - Torremolinos
Operator and Date: Teletext July/Aug '04
Opinion submitted in Aug 2004 by : Barb & Mark plus 3 teenagers (2 x 16 and 18)
Resort Rating: Below Average
Accommodation Rating: Below Average
My/Our Holiday Review:
Chose this hotel as advertised as DISABLED access. Only one room has doors wide enough for a wheelchair but does not have roll in shower so only suitable if you can get in/out of bath. VERY noisy air-con unit below the room so sleeping was quite disturbed. They were good enough to move us to another room but that meant no wheelchair access to the bathroom or balcony.
Ramps and slopes, ( the hotel is built on a hill) are quite steep in places so good job we had two strong teenagers to help. (Mark is a paraplegic)
The food was deffinately 2* not 4*. Though if you like cauliflower or sprouts cooked in loads of garlic, you might enjoy it. We had opted for full board but chose to pay instead and ate out a lot.
Our kids' room was broken into so we had to report to the police but that could happen anywhere, so DO hire the safety deposit box!
Entertainment very poor.(We played family games of cards everynight instead!)
On the positive side, the staff were wonderful, very helpful, very friendly.
We made the most of a bad lot though and had a lovely family holiday anyway!
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El Pinar Hotel - Torremolinos
Operator and Date: Alpha Beds - July 2004
Opinion submitted in July 2004 by : Jutty Lane - (21 - 30)
Resort Rating: Good
Accommodation Rating: Very Good
My/Our Holiday Review:
I used these apartments for my stag weekend.
The staff were very helpful, and assisted us at every opportunity. The hotel is very clean and the rooms are quiet and spacious.
The hotel is situated a 5 minute taxi ride from the airport, costing around 15 Euros. We were told the Torremolinos nightlife was not all that, and were advised to go to Benamadenas 24 hour square (which certainly lived up to its name). This was another 5 minute taxi ride from the apartments. But was more than worth it!!
The beach is around a 15 minute walk across some busy roads.
All in all the apartments were perfect for what we wanted.
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El Pinar Hotel - Torremolinos
Operator and Date: Flyglobespan June 2004
Opinion submitted in June 2004 by : A Stewart - Scotland (50,44,15)
Resort Rating: Average
Accommodation Rating: Below Average
My/Our Holiday Review:
These aparments were very clean but very basic and certinly not 4*. We had no kettle ,toaster , oven and because of the position of the El Pinar it was not handy to pop out in the morning for a breakfast. We tried the hotel breakfast once it cost us 19 euros and was rubbish.I had to ask for a pot to boil water as no kettle was available.Towel change daily and sheets changed. Entertainment was all Spanish music and a parrot show.
Because of the situation of the hotel it was not convenient for out and about.Certainly not surrounded by bars or restaurants which was stated.The local bus was 95cents and was good and we travelled by train to Fuengrolla and Benalmadena it was 4.95 AND 4.30 euros.You get discount tickets at the rail station for the cable car and marine world in Benalmadena and the zoo at Fuengerolla. These wer very good. Get a ticket for Gibralter in town for 19 euros excellent day out picked up and dropped of at your hotel.Hotel price 30euros.
Beach clean but too many steps and steep hills. Holiday okay but no nightly entertainment in Toremolinos for families all disco or karaoke. Hubby named the main square rip off square prices very dear.Weather was fantastuc but dont think we,ll return here and definately not to this hotel. Stayed in 2* late deal in Benidorm last year and it was a far superior apartment
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El Pinar Hotel - Torremolinos
Operator and Date: Winter Sunshine Holidays - May 2004
Opinion submitted in June 2004 by : Johnathan Bennington - Milton Keynes
Resort Rating: Below Average
Accommodation Rating: Very Good
My/Our Holiday Review:
I thought that the hotel was very good except for the breakfast. The rooms were excellent - they were spacious, clean and very comfortable. It had two pools, a snack bar, outside restaurant and lots of space for sun-bathing.
As I have mentioned, the breakfast could have been better. There wasn't much choice and the food seemed to contain too much oil.
I thought that the resort of Torremolinos was very dissappointing. It didn't seem to have much nightlife and some of the buildings looked old and tired.
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El Pinar Hotel - Torremolinos
Operator and Date: Internet - February 2004
Opinion submitted in Feb 2004 by : Al and Kaz 39
Resort Rating: Average
Accommodation Rating: Excellent
My/Our Holiday Review:
Thought that the Hotel was very nice. Our room was spotless and tastefully decorated. View from the balcony was OK. The adjacent accommodation is currently being upgraded so there was some disruption but it was not unbearable.
The meals were in the form of a serve yourself buffet and the food was usually tepid but edible. We were full board for £17 per night which quite frankly was a bargain. The hotel did cater for the more senior citizen but we put this down to the time of year and have to admit that everyone, guests and staff were friendly. There was "entertainment" on every night but it may not be to everyone's taste.
The bus runs to town every half hour but the walk is not too bad. The train station is a 5-10 minute walk and you can get a cheap return ticket to Malaga and Fuengirola and everywhere in between.
Nightlife at this time of year is a bit of a non starter Friday and Saturday nights are the most popular. Apparently Benalmadena is the place to go for nightlife.
At the end of the day a holiday is what you make of it and we had a laugh, would definately go back.
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El Pinar Hotel - Torremolinos
Operator and Date: alpha beds January 2004
Opinion submitted in Jan 2004 by : peter wadham
Resort Rating: Very Good
Accommodation Rating: Excellent
My/Our Holiday Review:
We were concerned about the hotel from reading other reviews, after we had already booked into the El Pinar. However, the hotel rooms are newly refurbished, very good standard and are large and spacious. Breakfast was superb. All staff were both pleasant and helpful.
Be aware that the hotel is about 15 mins walk from the promenade and about 10 mins walk from the centre of Torremolinos.
We will go back to this hotel which is just 5 minutes drive from the airport
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El Pinar Hotel - Torremolinos
Operator and Date: alpha beds - 2004 / 5
Opinion submitted in Mar 2005 by : s gledhill 4 23 49 50
Resort Rating: Poor
Accommodation Rating: Average
My/Our Holiday Review:
HOTEL_ this hotel is miles from the town,luckily we hired a car but was too far out of town.I think torremolinos is poor its all shopping didnt find a decent bar there they are few and far between.we could of stayed here or fuengirola and so much wish we did its like a holiday resort shops,bars restaraunts it was fab.Would never stay in torremolinos it was out of season but nothing to do especially for kids though we did find a nice park.we went to fuengirola every night apart from once we went to benalmadena which was ok.
we stayed in the apartments and was very small had no kettle for brews we had to boil a pan of water! which isnt a 4 * we stayed in a 2 * in benidorm with a lot better facilities in the apartments.the best bit was a massive balcony near enough bigger than the apartment.
Wouldnt go torremolinos would recommend fuengirola anyday just wish we would of!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!This isnt a 4* by any means expect a 2* maybe 3* and u wont be dissapointed.just hire a car or use public transport as busy roads into town and a long walk!!!
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El Pinar Hotel - Torremolinos
Operator and Date: Budget 2004
Opinion submitted in May 2005 by : Sarah Ireland
Resort Rating: Below Average
Accommodation Rating: Below Average
My/Our Holiday Review:
Please change the name of this apartment to HELL PINAR it is the most disgusting apartment I have ever stayed in even worse than Club Pria de Rocha and they are miles from anywhere.
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Hotel El Tiburon - Torremolinos
Operator and Date: Easyjet -- September 2005
Opinion submitted in Sept 2005 by : Richard and Anna
Resort Rating: Very Good
Accommodation Rating: Excellent
My/Our Holiday Review:
We have just returned from Hotel El Tiburon after staying there for 1 week which we booked through Alpha Rooms and Easyjet. The Hotel is rated as a 2 star but is more like a 3 star. The location of the hotel is 5 minutes from the beach and is in the Caruhuela area of Torremolinos.
The Hotel rooms are overlooking the well kept pool and the facilities are enough to enjoy your holiday. The rooms are cleaned every day with clean laundry and towels. The accomodation includes breakfast which is very nice with hot and cold food. The Caruheula area is a favourite of ours as it is more traditional with the unique houses and apartments. We found some of the seafront resturants more expensive than the ones hidden of the side streets. We would like to reccomend a very traditional bar probably one which is more used by the locals. It is the Cafe Bar LA GUITARRA which is in the street Calle de Ramos and the owner is called Manolo. We were able to buy a Jug of real sangria for 5 euros and 2 glasses of wine for 1 euro and 60 cents. It is well worth a few vists and tapas were provided.
We would definitely stay at El Tiburon if we go to Torremolinos again.
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Hotel El Tiburon - Torremolinos
Operator and Date: Jet2.com -April 2005
Opinion submitted in Apr 2005 by : Stephen Smith - Wigan (40,40,40,49)
Resort Rating: Very Good
Accommodation Rating: Very Good
My/Our Holiday Opinion:
The hotel was 2 * and hasn't been updated much since the 1990's. We booked bed and breakfast and breakfast included cooked food and cereal etc buffet style. The rooms were cleaned daily without fail and all the staff were very helpful. The hotel bar opened after breakfast and didn't shut, we got a drink when we came in at 5am!. The hotel is close to the local facilities and about 5 mins walk from the beach.
Id say the resort is best suited for couples not for young people as the area didn't have any clubs open at this time of year. A good walk or taxi would take you to the resorts either side where there is more lively bar's and clubs. The best night we had was Saturday night in the 24 hour square Benalmadena.
All in all we had a very good holiday and will be going again
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Hotel El Tiburon - Torremolinos
Operator and Date: (Thomson Holidays
Direct) Thomson Holidays
- May 2004
Opinion submitted in June 2004 by : Lynsey Dolecki - Bradford 24,25
Resort Rating: Very Good
Accommodation Rating: Very Good
My/Our Holiday Review:
Although the hotel was only 2 * we were very surprised at the good service. It was bed and breakfast and breakfast included a wide range or cooked food and cereal etc. The rooms were cleaned daily without fail and the staff were very friendly. The hotel bar opended more or less 24 hour which suited us. The hotel was close to the local facilities and about 5 mins walk from the beach.
Id say the hotel is best suited for couples and familes not for young people as the area didnt have any clubs etc only bars.
All in all we had a very good holiday and would consider going again.
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Ecuador Park Apartments - Torremolinos
Operator and Date: Self Booked April 2007
Opinion submitted in April 2007 by : Russ Turner Manchester (48,46,15,13)):
Resort Rating: Good
Accommodation Rating: Poor
My/Our Holiday Review:
The apartments looked ok upon arrival,However once we got into the room and saw the cockroaches we asked for a move.They did move us but this room was no better it seems the whole block is infested.The apartment was clean but the walls were very thin thus making it quite a noisey stay.The put you up double bed in the lounge was so old and creaky we had to put the cushions on the floor to get some sleep.Cheap yes value for money NO.The good point are there are a couple of good bars nearby The CARIBE where san miguel was 1 euro a pint and the food was great.Also RUMORS bar a little further down the road was clean Ian and Elaine were really friendly and you are garunteed a warm welcome.
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Equador Park Apartments - Torremolinos
Operator and Date: alpharooms march 2006
Opinion submitted in Mar 2006 by : ian gayton blackpool (48,44,23,17)
Resort Rating: Excellent
Accommodation Rating: Very Good
My/Our Holiday Review:
hi just come back from a weeks stay at the equador park.the apartments are in an ideal location about 200 yards from the beach and a 10 minuet stroll to benalmadena marina.the apartments are quite large with a great balcony.they have a seperate kitchen with a 4 ring cooker microwave oven toaster and coffee maker.the maids came in every other day and changed the sheets and towels.there is a bedroom with twin beds and in the living area there is a couch that folds down to double bed.they have mobile oil heaters in the rooms for the winter months but no airconditioning for the summer months.the staff are all friendly and cheerfull.the pool is of meidium size but no child pool. the grounds of the complex are very clean and tidy.
the only real downside i had with these apartments were that some (not all) the toilets were positioned to near the bath so you had to sit sideways.
there are some great value bars and resturants in the area and a supermarket right outside the apartments.
all in all we had a great stay at the equador park.
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Hotel Flamingo - Torremolinos
Operator and Date: Internet - June 2006
Opinion submitted in June 2006 by : Ann Hicks (Wales) 63,66,61,57
Resort Rating: Good
Accommodation Rating: Average
My/Our Holiday Review:
Just returned from a two week holiday at the Flamingo. The hotel is one of the old type and first impressions of the foyer etc. was O.K. We checked in and we were allocated as requested,rooms on the top floor. Our rooms were quite nice bathroom O.K. but a little small as was the balcony. The pool area is definately too small for the size of the hotel as is the pool area. There are two grass areas which are used for sunbathing and the top one is quite nice.There are plenty of white plastic sun loungers stacked on all areas but except for the ones that guests have already used (which are not stacked) they are very dirty. There are not many parasols approximately five for the whole hotel. The pool sides could have done with a good clean.
The bar is situated by the poolside and even though there is a very nice bar in the foyer the poolside bar is the only one open it is non smoking except for a narrow corner cut off from the rest of the bar and of course outside at the pool.
There is a very nice television room with a large screen which was only used by the Spanish guests as the channels were all in Spanish. The hotel boasts in i'ts advertisements satelite television in all rooms - not so!- the only english channel available in the rooms is Eurosport and nothing else and despite many requests for other channels to be available none were.
The dining room is OK and despite the hotel being full the second week of our holiday only twice did we have to wait for a table.
Food - A very big and important part of our holiday.
Breakfast - Bacon,Sausage,Eggs,in fact all the hot dishes anyone could want with a selection of cereals,jams,breads,fresh fruit etc.
Lunch - Large selection of cold meats and salads always two soups one hot and one cold and a varieay of hot dishes sweets were a variety of cakes jellies custards and freah fruit.
Dinner - The same format as lunch with different dishes available large cream cakes were also available at dinner.
All inclusive guests as we were could help themselves to wine sangria and cold water during meal times beer and soft drinks were also available through the waiter.
All inclusive drinks - 11.00am-11.00pm and not a minute sooner or later. The usual drinks were available including tea and coffee.
The staff were all generally very nice and always tried to be helpful.
There is a small room where you will find a pool table ans a few games machines which when we arrived was in use even though it had the dirtiest carpet i have ever seen in any star hotel this was not available during our second week as they decided to do something about it and closed the room off for refurbishment which meant guests could not use the lift on that floor(which served the pool and bar area)but go down to the floor below and walk up one flight of stairs. OK. only a pain in the neck for able bodied people but a pain everywhere else for the disabled. Drilling of the floor also took place in the bar area and none of these jobs were finished when we left.No appologies were offered for the inconvenience, noise or the dust.
This is a popular hotel with the spanish and a very high percentage of the guests staying at the hotel are Spanish but I prefered these nice people to some of the drunk,dirty,noisy people that arrived during our second week people who left all their rubbish under their sun loungers constantly jumped or played ball in the pool even though it was not allowad and had no consideration for anyone else and I am sorry to say that these people were British.
Would I go back to this hotel? Only if it was on a very special offer.
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Hotel Flamingo - Torremolinos
Operator and Date: Discount Hoildays - july 2005
Opinion submitted in July 2005 by : Laura - Glasgow (25, 25)
Resort Rating: Below Average
Accommodation Rating: Below Average
My/Our Holiday Review:
Well, What can I say? I am literally just back from the Flamingo Hotel (2 hours ago now!) and I have to say: Don't go there! Thankfully we only went for a week. We booked last minute, allocation on arrival (which we will never do again!)
The hotel is a 3 * although I have to say that I wouldn't agree with this rating. The rooms are basic and small although the maid service is excellent. We had clean towels and sheets every day. The balcony is like a cheese slice. It is big enough for only one plastic chair! We were disappointed with this as we usually like to relax and have a drink on the balcony after a day in the sun. And the beach is exactly where you would have to go as the pool is too small for the hotel and there are not enough sunbeds!
We were there on a half board basis and the food was average. Unless you are big fish eater then will struggle to find food on a daily basis. I lived mostly on rolls with potatos or chips! Needless to say, the staff were also quite slow. I can't really comment on the other services within the hotel because to tell the truth we just slept and ate there(on occassion) and spent the rest of our time elsewhere. The evening entertainment seemed below average although we never stayed to find out!
The beach is about a 15 minute walk away which is fine although there are a lot of steps involved in order to get there. A lot of families were struggling with prams and pushchairs. It is 4 euros each for a sunbed.
To top it all off, there was a construction site right next to the hotel so we were woken up every morning (except weekends) at 9am by the sound of building work!
The beach front itself is relatively well kept although very very busy. We tended to walk to the right towards Benalmendena where there were some nice hotels and bars along the sea front. The price of drinks seem to vary. In one bar it was 5 euros for a glass on Sangria but in another it was 2.50! we didn't find the place particularly cheap!
We ventured to Benalmendena by train. It was quick, easy and cheap. It seemed nicer there and if we were to return we would stay there but only in a 4 *. There is a beautiful park full of animals which roam freely (roosters, peacocks, ducks etc...)
Overall, the place was fine and it was a good week in the sun but I would not return to the hotel and probably not the place either. There were some hen and stags there too and they were struggling to find places to go to at night.
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Hotel Flamingo - Torremolinos
Operator and Date: June 2005
Opinion submitted in June 2005 by : 10 girls on long Hen weekend ages 18 - 28
Resort Rating: Average
Accommodation Rating: Below Average
My/Our Holiday Review:
Visited this hotel for a 3 night all inclusive hen weekend. Wasn't expecting much due to the cheap price so wasnt dissapointed as such. Hotel is very dated and the pool, bar and sun lounge area is small for the size of the hotel. Fortunately it was fairly quiet.
Food was horrible, strange combinations..ended up living of chips! Hotel consisted of mainly middle aged spanish people. Entertainment was poor. All inclusive however at one point we were told we had had enough drinks!! (prob true but still!)
Rooms were nice enough and clean but unless you have a corner balcony like we did they are tiny and there was no furniture to sit out on them.
Hotel pretty central however we didnt find many bars, went to Benalmedena instead which was livelier. However irish karaoke bar 2 mins from hotel was a good laugh.
All in all we had a great time but only because there were 10 of us and we only stayed 3 nights. Would have been awful if there as a couple or for a whole week.
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Hotel Flamingo - Torremolinos
Operator and Date: FEBUARY 2005
Opinion submitted in Mar 2005 by : LORRAINE MADDEN AYRSHIRE 40,41
Resort Rating: Good
Accommodation Rating: Poor
My/Our Holiday Review:
this has to be the worst holiday ever hotel stunk at the main entrance,bar staff were on a go slow at all times,food was terrible i dont think i will ever eat red cabbige again food was under cooked at times.
the place was over run with spanish oaps and they took over the dance hall at nite never going to the bar and if you moved off your seat they would be away with it this hotel is far less a 3star i would say to anyone that is thinking about hotel flamingo dont you will regret it this was meant to be my honeymoon one thing for sure i wont forget it.i am just glad that we didnt take our children as there are nothing for them to do
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Hotel Flamingo - Torremolinos
Operator and Date: Feb 2005
Opinion submitted in Feb 2005 by : John Halliday 54 55 62 67 70 76
Resort Rating: Very Good
Accommodation Rating: Below Average
My/Our Holiday Review:
The only positive to be said for this hotel is its location, its in the town centre.
The food was boring and bland to say the least.
Service at the bars was slow, maybe because we were all inclusive. Entertainment almost non existant, small pool area with a few tables and sun loungers.
Anyone with a disability stay well clear as access throughout the hotel is difficult.
Not a happy experience visiting this hotel, we will not be returning.
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Hotel Flamingo - Torremolinos
Operator and Date: (Thomson Holidays
Direct) Thompson - Feb 2005
Opinion submitted in Feb 2005 by : Hughes Family.From Cardiff 45,42,16,14,12 & 2
Resort Rating: Poor
Accommodation Rating: Poor
My/Our Holiday Review:
Just got back from this dreadful place barely 3 hours ago and just had to warn you,where can i begin...firstly it has a deal with the Spanish Gov' to give their elderly a 2 week Holiday free of charge,i have a lot of time for the elderly but this lot just resented you full stop,they were the rudest lot i have ever come across and woe betide you if you tried to dance and have fun with the kids whilst they waltzed around the dance floor,also the walls are so thin that we turned our TV down and watched the same programme as next door,the public toilet area stank of sewerage constantly,we hired a car but had to pay a daily charge to park close to the Hotel,we have stayed at the Beach Club Hotel and they must be fuming to be rated the same as this Hotel,it seemed to me to be a type of place where you would doss down with the lads on a binge weekend but as for a family Holiday....Forget it.
Its gonna take some time for me to forget about Rice,Chips,Hake & green beans for a long time,thats the menu in a nutshell,although it was hot enough to sunbathe you just had to get away from this place,ive looked at previous reviews and they are right,its old,tatty, completely out of date and out of tune with todays Holidaymakers.I can still see the faces of the British guests we said goodbye to today,the one thing we all had in common....Never ever Again.
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Hotel Flamingo - Torremolinos
Operator and Date: discount holidays - July 2004
Opinion submitted in Aug 2004 by : stephen [36,30]
Resort Rating: Good
Accommodation Rating: Average
My/Our Holiday Review:
we stayed here for one week on the 25th july with our two kids aged 3 & 8,when we arrived at hotel reception they had no record of our booking from discount holidays,we sat in reception area for almost 3hrs,till we finally got a room,our rep was Angela was very good in dealing with the problem,we had a spacious room with large balcony,I understand from other guest at this time that the balconys which were not on a corner room like ours were very small,and no room for 2 patio chairs,
the maid service was very good, always fresh towels and bed linen,bathrooms are very small,we had no hot water for nearly a day and a half of our holiday,but after that it was ok,the pool area is very small for the size of this hotel,and no separate kids splash pool,
entertainment at this hotel is held by the pool area,but tables at night are placed very close to pool,and with kids it was a bit of a worry,entertainment itself was good some nights and not so good other nights depending on programme,kids disco was alright but held on stage with no barriers and steps up the middle,which with young kids playing musical chairs is not a good idea,
we were on an all inclusive bases which was very poor,drinks were fine alday till 11pm [but take your wallet if one second past 11pm]even though you have stood at bar for 15mins trying to get served,kids only got free ice cream from 4pm-5pm which i have never seen on an all inclusive bases,bar service was appaulling,one member of staff at pool bar most days,and this was to serve drimks as well as food,but after a lot of complaints from guest things seem to pick up a bit later on the week,
dinning room meals were ok if you are not fussy,staff were very slow on taking your drinks order at meal times,resort itself was fine,and tivoli fun fair is a must see [for all ages],trains seem to be better to travel on than buses,
i would not go to this hotel again,[we were alocation on arrival],but did have nice time,glad it was just a week.
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Hotel Flamingo - Torremolinos
Operator and Date: Discount Holidays-June 2004
Opinion submitted in July 2004 by : Dave 36 -Blanche 39
Resort Rating: Average
Accommodation Rating: Below Average
My/Our Holiday Opinion:
We booked a last minute holiday with Discount Holidays through the teletext on TV. We had an idea where we wanted to go so we done a bit of research before booking, we looked through holidays uncovered and seen that there was a bit of mixed reactions to the Flamingo Hotel, but on the whole most seemed to be reasonably favourable and we preferred to know where we were staying rather than allocation on arrival.
If you are staying at this hotel it is not to far from the airport so you may find it cheaper and certainly much more convenient to get a taxi instead of paying the travel agents transfer fees. We paid 15 euros there and the same on our return, this worked out cheaper and also meant we were not stuck on a coach for ages, and also we had the benefit of not having to queue for ages to check in at the hotel, and also much easier on our return home not having to get caught up in the usual race to check in along with coach loads full of other holidaymakers!
The hotel staff were all nice and helpful, though sometimes reception staff would answer the phone whilst dealing with you and you would be left awhile, when this happens about three or four times while you are trying to check in it gets a bit frustrating.
On our arrival at the hotel around about 2.00pm in the afternoon our room was not ready so the receptionist said she would allocate us a different one, we had asked for a high room as to be away from all the noise and this is what we got, a word of advice, the rooms on the 10th and 11th floor had not been refurbished as i believe some of the others had, they were comfortably furnished and the maid service was on a daily basis, they only things wrong with our room which by the way was 1118, was that it smelt like a sewer most days and nights(we were led to believe by the comments of other guests that theirs were the same, and also the surrounding area housed a large population of locals, some who have dogs which bark ALL night long, so if you are looking for a relaxing holiday, please do not get this room!
The food in the hotel was limited but normally there was something for everyone depending ou your tastes, there was only one night that we could'nt find anything to our tastes.
The hotel is situated on a main road and is quite close to the shops, buses and train station. The public transport is very cheap and frequent. We took the bus to Benalmadena which was a really lovely day out, we walked back along the beach and marina which was really lovely, much cleaner than our resort, not so much dog poo there, which is something that you will see a lot of in Torremolinos!
We took the train to Fuengirola, again this was a lovely day, but please be aware of ticket touts with scratch cards telling you that you have 3 sevens etc, and that you have won the star prize which is either £400, a camcorder or a free holiday. It will most certainly be the Free holiday, which in fact consists of you having to pay an admin fee of £58 and also your own flights etc, whatever you do do not get in a taxi with them, the half hour they say it takes is more like 3 hours, be warned.
Overall even though it may not sound like it we did have a relaxing holiday, the beach is less than a ten minute walk from the hotel and there are lots of lovely little bars and cafes to sit and relax at.
We would definitley go back to the costa del sol but would go to Benalmadena as it was a much nicer resort, but as the saying goes you get what you pay for, and at £216 each for a weeks half board what do you expect!
Overall rating for the resort 5/10 and the hotel 4/10, though I am sure all the rooms were not near as bad as ours.
Good Luck.
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Hotel Flamingo - Torremolinos
Operator and Date: independant - may 2004
Opinion submitted in May 2004 by : andrea and rachel (35 . 45)
Resort Rating: Good
Accommodation Rating: Very Good
My/Our Holiday Review:
We went to this hotel for a 'girlie' weekend. After reading the reviews we were a little concerned about the quality of the hotel. We were delighted to find our concerns were unfounded.
Rooms.
We were on the 9th floor with pool and sea views, it had recently been refurbished. The beds were very comfortable and the room was kept spotlessly clean by the daily maid service. Air conditioning was quiet and efficient.
Food.
We were on an all-inclusive package although half board and B&B were also available. There was plenty of salad, meat and veg at every meal, it was not very exciting food but we were never hungry. There was also a small selection of snacks available from the main bar during the day and early evening.
Staff.
Without fail, every one was friendly and welcoming. If you want anything just ask, they will do their very best to help you. Any problems with your room , once reported to the front desk are sorted out very quickly with no fuss.
Location.
This hotel is in the main town close to bars and shops. Trains and buses are 2 minutes walk away. If you want a beach holiday then this may not be the place for you as it is a long walk involving many steps or a steep hill.
Pool.
There is a small pool which is quite deep, 2m60 at the deep end, a small sundeck with plenty of loungers, tables and umbrellas. The main bar is 20ft away. This is lovely for adults but not ideal for children due to the depth.
Entertainment.
This is the only failing of this hotel if you are not of retirement age.
the animation program is dire and amatuerish. Go out in the evening if you are under 65!!!!!!!!
All in all this is a great hotel for a short break but I would not want to spend my main holiday there, mostly due to the poor entertainment and, I think that the food would not be varied enough for a longer break.
Overall rating 8/10
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Hotel Flamingo - Torremolinos
Operator and Date: instant holidays
Opinion submitted in July 2004 by : paul debra thomas lisa elkins.(35,40,13,15)
Resort Rating: Average
Accommodation Rating: Below Average
My/Our Holiday Review:
we travelled with excel airways they were excellent,plenty of leg room,meals and staff very good.
hired car at airport got to the hotel and had no parking spaces all week we had to pay 6euros a day on an underground car park,but in the morning had to wait till 10am to open.meals were repetative and tasteless,they seem to cater for spanish.
we were on the 10th floor lifts took ages to come rooms were adequate,though the air conditioning was very poor and made us ill.
on our first night we went into the town and noticed it was very popular with g-ays and l-esbians. other nights we decided to stay local to the hotel and went in a bar about three bars up next to the irish bar go and say hello to ron and morrissette,really friendly people. loads of traffic which suprised us.
To top the holiday off my wife had money and cards stolen out of her room so be careful cos we think it was the cleaner,she was the only one to have access and the purse was put back in her bag the way she found it,a chance thief would just take the bag,we told the staff but they were not interested all in all we all thought it was a dump NEVER AGAIN.
you also had to pay to get down to the beach in a lift,what a joke.
If you are thinking of going think again and good luck
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Hotel Griego Mar - Torremolinos
Operator and Date: Hello Holidays - July 2007
Opinion submitted in August 2007 by : Mandy - Oldham (40,37,13,10)
Resort Rating: Very Good
Accommodation Rating: Very Good
My/Our Holiday Review:
We have just returned from this hotel - a week all-inclusive and had a great time. The food is good but does tend to cater more for the spanish but we always found something to eat. The kids loved the pool but as it is not that big, large inflatables were not allowed in the pool which was a bit disappointing for them. The entertainment wasn't as good as we thought, again it does tend to cater for the spanish guests. The free drinks you couldn't complain about, a good variety of drinks both alcoholic and for the children too. Staff are friendly, but a few of the bar staff struggled to understand english which was frustrating at times.
The room was cleaned every day and new towels every day too, the sheets were changed once in the week we were there. It is located centrally for the local shops, bars, restaurants etc but a good walk downhill to the beach but there is a lift down/up from the beach if you need it at 50c per person.
We enjoyed our holiday and definitely made the most of the all-inclusive deal which was well worth paying for.
The only downside to Costa Del Sol was the graffiti which could be found almost everywhere but the streets/pathways were sweeped and washed down on a regular basis. Just a pity they don't clean the graffiti too as first impressions on arriving doesn't give a good impression of the area which is a shame really.
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Hotel Griego Mar - Torremolinos
Operator and Date: medinland - July 2007
Opinion submitted in July 2007 by : mark-wales 42,39,18,18
Resort Rating: Excellent
Accommodation Rating: Excellent
My/Our Holiday Review:
just came back from the griego mar on the 4th of july and you have no need to worry.Hotel was absolutely spotless.
Position of hotel central to all amenities etc pubs,bars restaurants,shops and only a 10-15 min walk to beach.The staff were probably the most pleasant we have met.After all if you are polite to them they will treat you the same.The rooms were clean and tidy and cleaned everyday.the food was excellent and had a good selection and variety but breakfast was much the same everyday although they did have REAL sausages everyday.We have stayed in four star hotels and the food was no better.We had two 18 year olds with us and they thouroughly enjoyed it.There was plenty of activities to keep them amused during the day snooker comps,table tennis,shooting,darts water polo etc and plenty for girls aswell.
The entertainment at night could have been better.Drinks at the bar were good.We were all inclusive so the usual spanish beer etc was free but you could buy branded drinks for half price this included pint size cans of STRONGBOW for 2 euros(heaven!!)The hotel was full when we were there and the pool was large enough for everyone but even though there was a shallow end we feel the hotel could do with a childrens pool.There was also a night club underneath that was open 10-2 and all inclusive guests paid half price for drinks although you would never know there was a night club there we never heard a thing from there.There is a security guard around all night.
All in all we had a fabulous holiday and would definately go there again.
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Hotel Griego Mar - Torremolinos
Operator and Date: Cosmos - June 2007
Opinion submitted in June 2007 by : Evelyn McLean
Resort Rating: Very Good
Accommodation Rating: Average
My/Our Holiday Review:
The Greigo Mar Hotel is very well situated at the top of the main shopping street in Torremolinos. The hotel itself is clean and tidy, staff are not too helpful and do not speak very good English. The rooms are basic, pool is small and there is not enough area around the pool for sunbathing.
There was entertainment on (15th June - 20th June 2007) but it seemed to be based more to the children (parrot show, magician etc. We did not actually see any of it though. The food in the hotel was a let down. Breakfast was the same day in day out. (they did change the egg from fried to scrambled) The evening meal was disgusting, we ended up eating out all the time. The tables in the restaurant were not cleared after each course, therefore you ended up with a pile of dishes squashed on a small table. If you wanted a drink you had to go to the bar there was no waiter service.
We took a cheap deal holiday and basically that is what we got.
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Hotel Griego Mar - Torremolinos
Operator and Date: april 2007
Opinion submitted in May 2007 by : 50 and 49
Resort Rating: Good
Accommodation Rating: Good
My/Our Holiday Review:
We stopped at this hotel for 1 week w/c April 27th 2007 , clean basic room ,reception staff helpful location was very good central no problems at all well worth the money.We went full board had plenty to eat .We would go there again. The weather was cloudy when we arrived but then picked up into the 70,s after talking to other people we had a good week for the weather as usually there is a lot of rain in April!! If you go down to the sea front there are good long walks into the next resort plenty of restaurants and shops.the resort felt safe for 2 women on there own Anne + Gill Sheffield
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Hotel Griego Mar - Torremolinos
Operator and Date: Travel Republic - March 2007
Opinion submitted in April 2007 by : Atkinson Family - County Durham (43, 37, 10)
Resort Rating: Very Good
Accommodation Rating: Good
My/Our Holiday Review:
We have just returned from a family holiday (10 nights) at this Hotel and wanted to share our reviews so that others could get an up to date idea of the hotel and area.
Transfers - just grab a taxi at the airport as it is a fixed price to the resort of approx 15 euros and takes about 10 mins.
Hotel - This is a basic hotel but kept really clean. All the main areas are washed daily and the maid came in everyday except one to make bed and clean. Linen was changed once - but then how often do you change yours at home? The main downside is that you must be able to do steps as they are everywhere, in reception, poolside,to get to the dining room or entertainments. Not a problem for us but awful for the less able.
Hotel Entertainment - I must admit this is a bit of a problem area. We all loved the kids entertainment team (Alex, Bea and Paulo) who are young and enthusiastic. They do darts, pool, shooting, sjolen, mini golf (well their version) and other activities twice a day and hand out the certificates each night. Adults and kids can join in - we did and you get out what you put in as they say so we had a good time.
Evenings were mainly a bit informal with a 3 song kids disco, followed by bingo (rubbish prizes) and then something like the parrot show, reptile show or karaoke. The shows really are just a way of them extracting your cash as they want you to have overpriced photos done. Most people just watched because it was on and then had drinks or played cards in the quiet area. All in all it was quite poor if you want evening fun.
We never tried Pepes bar the late night disco (over 18s) as our daughter needed her bed about 11 pm.
Pool - was closed every morning until 10am so that cleaning and chemicals could be added. Lots of sun loungers and a raised area so that you didn't need to be splashed if you're just a sun worshipper!!! p.s try the hotels roof terrace on floor 8 where hardly anyone goes and the sun stays until evening.
They have just employed a lifeguard too for this season.
Food - we were all inclusive and ate well every day. yes you have to remember that this is a hotel and catering for every nationality so it won't be like home. Also it is not a top of the range place.
Breakfast has bread, fruit, croissants, yoghurts, cereals, cheese and meats. Hot drinks and fruit juices.
Lunch has soup, salads, 3 to 4 main courses and desserts. Wine, water, beer, pop and juice.
Dinner has soup, salads, 3/4/5 main courses and desserts. Wine, water, beer, pop and juice.
My daughter loved the croissants, madeleine style cakes and mini kids buffet where she could get burgers, chips, sausage, nuggets etc. For a picky eater we were really proud when she tried the risotto (chefs special), plaice and some of the chops in wine sauce.
Also being all inclusive meant that we could have access to a snack bar all day and evening (closed approx 11pm), free coffee, tea, hot choc, asst alcohol and free ice cream or ice pops all day up to 12pm. Plus if you did want other items ie walkers crisps or pizzas you got a 50% discount in their other snack bars.
The downside of the food was that sometimes it was lukewarm, although there was a microwave in the kids area. Also the kids area was left out most of the day ?????
Location - For us this was great but I know that for some people they would find it too far from the beach. Through town and down the steps or by lift and a few steps. We loved it because the train and bus station are just down the road and really cheap so you can explore the rest of Costa del Sol. We recommend a trip to Benalmadena and up the mountain on the cablecar, also to Selwo Marina where you pay 15 euros to have a picture stroking the dolphins which was a delight for our little daughter and if you like mini fairgrounds pop to Tivoli (Benalmadena again) a 10 euro wrist band lets you go on rides all day up to closing 7/8pm. Also Fuengirola market is really cheap but get off the stop before Fuengirola as it is much closer. Next time we want to travel even further and are taking Spanish lessons as you need it when you venture out of the main resorts.
By the way the beach is fab. Sandy and areas full of palm trees. Lots of sun loungers to hire and places to eat. You can walk along the front to Benalmadena and it doesn't take long, approx 20mins.
Overview - All in all a fab holiday. Do try talking to the locals in Spanish as most love it and are really lovely people. Venturing out and about is great but take a phrase book and a small map. Torremolinos didn't have hardly any touts when we were there but Fuengirola was full of them.... yuk. Will certainly go to this area again and would use this hotel as we now know it and feel comfortable in this area. It makes a good base for us, but remember everyone is different so do read other reviews too. Hope this helps.
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Hotel Griego Mar - Torremolinos
Operator and Date: booked through holiday nights - 2007
Opinion submitted in May 2007 by : Anne & Gill aged 50
Resort Rating: Very Good
Accommodation Rating: Very Good
My/Our Holiday Review:
Good Position Friendly helpful staff Good food Decent size room and clean
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Hotel Griego Mar - Torremolinos
Operator and Date: 2 Can Travel - Sept 2006
Opinion submitted in October 2006 by : 53'53
Resort Rating: Very Good
Accommodation Rating: Good
My/Our Holiday Review:
Returned 27th Sept after 10 nights at The Greigo Mar.The hotel is probably rated correctly at 3 star.
Rooms are cleaned every day and we had the beds changes 3 times in the 10 nights.We stayed A/I we have no complaints about the food plenty of choice breakfasts had plenty of varities from toast through to a full fry up breakfast Lunch and dinners were from salads meat fish veg and yes chips to keep every body happy with a good collection of puddings.One or two people did moan about the food but i don't know what they expected to see for the price they paid.We were allowed all drinks at the bar ranging from soft drinks to local spirits plus teas and coffee.The big downside to the hotel is the entertainment in the evenings the only word to discribe it is crap.In the ten days we were there we saw a parrot show twice a Spanish comedien who was about as funny as hemoroids and a night of the usual flemenco dancers the other remaining nights were quiz nights and bingo which by the way you paid 1 euro for a game of bingo but instead of winning money they gave you a present.The problem we had was we had paid for A/I so the drinks were free but if you ventured across the road for a drink two Bacardies and Coke ranged from 8 to 10 euro so we put up with the so called entertainment.
The pool in the hotel became shaded from the sun after lunch due to the height of the hotel but we found a roof top people could go and sun bathe on.The beach is a 15 minute walk away from the hotel.To get to the beach you have to walk down 130 steps to the beach but to get back up to the top there is a lift which costs 50 cents each and believe me its worth paying.The beach is kept clean and there are plenty of sun beds for hire.
Our over all impression of the Greico Mar is;its was good value for what we paid but they should replace the two people who try to organise the entertainment because to be honest they were about as good as an ash tray on a motor bike the hotel has so much potential but i am afraid to say there dosn't appear to be much enthusiasm.If the price was right we would probabley visit again as we are easily pleased.
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Hotel Griego Mar - Torremolinos
Operator and Date: First Choice July 2006
Opinion submitted in July 2006 by : Kenny 39 Sally 45
Resort Rating: Very Good
Accommodation Rating: Average
My/Our Holiday Review:
This Hotel is rated 3 star but as normal most are 1 star below as stated, The Greigo mar is a basic holiday at a basic price, rooms were tidy and cleaned regularly, Best points was the roof top sun terrace and if you was one of 3 ladies who were regular bathers during the week 5th July - 12 July one of you will remember me from the looks and smile by the pool you left without saying good bye :( when you lfet for the manchester flight( i think ) you had your last drink in pepes before returning to your rooms the night before departure
The Only down side was the entertainment otherwise it was a good well deserved break.
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Hotel Griego Mar - Torremolinos
Operator and Date: Teletext Holidays - July 2006
Opinion submitted in July 2006 by : 3 of us aged 20
Resort Rating: Very Good
Accommodation Rating: Very Good
My/Our Holiday Review:
We were very worried when we read the reviews on this website but when we got there we could not see what all the fuss was about! The hotel is quite modern for what you are paying which is not a lot so we were pleasently suprised!
We went all inclusive for 1 week and to be honest you couldnt ask for much more. The food is perfectly fine and for those that are picky there was always salad, chips and bread so you wont go without.
It was a long complex walk to the beech (about 20 mins) and we did NOT have to walk down hundreds of steps as some other people have said but when we got there it was definately worth it, it was an absolutely amazing beach
The pool is not always in the shade either it takes a while for the shade to come over to the end of the pool about 3 but only slightly and everywhere else is in the sun. You do have to get up early to get sunbeds but you could come down at 9 and get some on the balcony beside the pool that way you were out of the way from all the children
I would definately recommend a trip to Puerto Banus Marina its a millionaire's playground and you see lots of expensive boats and really high market designer shops!
There is not many places to go out in torrelimos but for 8 euros you can get a taxi to benaladena's 24 hr square which is always buzzing. It is not a very clubby place but there are a few clubs and bars to keep you amused, Id recommend Linikers and Mangos. Be careful when you get out though because the PR's pounce on u as soon as you get out your taxi!!
To be honest I cannot see why anyone would complain about this hotel. We went in the high season and for the price we paid for it was definately more than worth it so dont listen to what anyone else has said. The hotel entertainment isnt the greatest but they have a nice terrace and all our drinks were included so it was all ok
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Hotel Griego Mar - Torremolinos
Operator and Date: Alpha rooms May 2006
Opinion submitted in June 2006 by : Family of three 43,45,7
Resort Rating: Good
Accommodation Rating: Average
My/Our Holiday Review:
Was not very impressed with this hotel.Room was very basic,and the chest of draws must have been 100 years old.Looked ok outside when we arrived, till we got in the room.Food wasnt much better,as no choice and only saw green vegetables twice in 10 days at evening meal.The choice for kiddies,was chips,chips or fill up with ice-cream and cake.We went half-board,but most guest were all-inclusive,so tried the bar the second night the see what the entertainment was like for the little girl.We queued for 15mins at the bar,and gave up as there was 1 barman on and everyone was all-inclusive so we had no chance.
The staff in the hotel are not very friendly and all looked as if the wanted to be somewhere else.The hotel has lots of elderly spanish people staying there,and getting your evening meal at night was like a rugby match,as they push and shove to get theres first.
The resorts quite hilly,and the beach is about 15 mins walk from the hotel.Plenty of shops,restaraunts and cafe bars there.The beach is down lots of steps,and theres shops as you go down the winding streets towards the bottom of all the steps.Then its all the way back up the steps or a lift which is built into the rocks,and its 30cents each to get you back to the top of the hill.Once you get to the beach you can walk all the way round the coast to benalmadena,which has lots of beach front shops and is better than torremolinos beach front.
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Hotel Griego Mar - Torremolinos
Operator and Date: Teletext/BMI baby flight - Oct 2005
Opinion submitted in Nov 2005 by : S A Jones (43,60,61)
Resort Rating: Very Good
Accommodation Rating: Very Good
My/Our Holiday Review:
I travelled to Toremolinos with my mum & Godmum. We had a great time. The hotel was good.Maid service was excellent. We stayed on a half board basis and found the food to be a generally very good standard. We did have drinks in the Hotel and thought they were quite reasonably priced. It's dearer if you go down to the square!
The walk to the top of the steps down to the front took us about 10-15 easy stroll, and it's lovely going down the steps to wander in & out of the (some quite nice) shops. When we came back up, we stopped at the local Bodega (just before you round the corner to the old town main street) Think it was called Bodega Penes any way we had a glass of local sangria which only cost E1.30. Lovely & refreshing.
At night we would have our meal & go towards the square. We found a really lovely Bodega (?name but on the corner where you get the lift down to the beach) The atmosphere was really good we has amarettoo. It came in a massive brandy glass with loads of ice and was only E3. We also went to Legends and had Karaoke and there was a Karaoke bar on the square called... wait for it............El Open Arms. They also had drink offers on as well.
All in all we had a good week and it wasn't too busy. However I would like to point out that I would not fancy this hol in July/Aug. Also I can see the point of view for the all inclusive guests as there is only 1/2 bars open at a time and only one pool & sunbed area to service 1000+ rooms . We did go to the beach when the weather was hot though as the beds around the pool were plastic with no matresses.
Hope this review helps you choose to stay at the Griego Mar, as it is good value if you get a last minute 'cheapy'. We flew with BMI Baby & was good.
Adios
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Hotel Griego Mar - Torremolinos
Operator and Date: Internet booking - Oct 2005
Opinion submitted in Nov 2005 by : Jim (55), Denise (53) Bolton
Resort Rating: Poor
Accommodation Rating: Poor
My/Our Holiday Review:
Not Recommended
Resort is a dump, dirty, dangerous & dated. Hotel is worse. We booked an all inclusive holiday early Oct. and went Oct 16th 2005. The place was full of Spanish pensioners, who at best were ignorant as were the staff. Food was poor and very samey, bars poorly staffed, only one person serving and the hotel was quite full, tried to get two drinks each to reduce queing but bar staff refused.
Pool area is the pits, only a small section of the pool & patio area was exposed to the sun, three quarters in the shade all day, the remaining quarter had sun for about 4 hours, for sunworshippers the hotel has been built back to front. We went all inclusive, fortunately we had hired a car at the airport for the week and could get out every day. We left the hotel before 09.00 every morning and returned about 20.00 every evening.
Entertainment poor, bingo every night at 21.30 in 4 languages, it took ages and after that the main events, one night a parrot show, another night Jimmy Crankey size spanish singer & 3 nights a quiz also in 4 languages. If you enjoy this kind of thing, fine, if your like most hard working brits, use your well earned money to go elsewhere.
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Hotel Griego Mar - Torremolinos
Operator and Date: teletext sept 2005
Opinion submitted in Mar 2006 by : mark - grimsby (37,30,10,6,1)
Resort Rating: Good
Accommodation Rating: Average
My/Our Holiday Review:
For a last minute all inc,i would say go for it as long as you havent payed to much.the pool had no area for kids which was a problem for us.its very 70s spain so as long as you dont expect to much you should be ok.word of warning though watch the local pick pockets in the town centre
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Hotel Griego Mar - Torremolinos
Operator and Date: (Direct Holidays) Direct Holidays - Aug 05
Opinion submitted in Sept 2005 by : JB/MB Glasgow
Resort Rating: Good
Accommodation Rating: Good
My/Our Holiday Review:
When we arrived at the hotel we did not get a very good first impression. We were not happy with the time it took the reception staff to book us in to our room(about 45 minutes). This only changed when an English member of staff came on shift and started organising them. The reception area is not air conditioned so is not a good place to be hanging around!
The Greigo Mar is set amongst other 60s type buildings. Torremonlinos is one of the first tourist resorts built in Spain and it shows - the resort is in need of some upgrading!
The room was basic but clean. We had a few problems with our shower and toilet - and to be fair they were sorted that day as soon as we reported it to reception. Our room was air conditioned, so that was a plus too.
The walk to the beach will take you about 20/25 minutes downhill - which means it is uphill on the way back!! Loads of stairs - use the lift at the Melia Hotel near the beach on the way back and it will reduce the amount of stairs to climb! Look out for the time share touts who pounce on you as soon as you reach the beach.
Hotel staff at bar were friendly and entertainment at night was ok, we found a good selection of food on offer in the restaurant (although we sometimes had to wait a while to get a drink) and the snack bar had a good selection too. Nice walk around the shopping area at night.
A must see is the Marina in Benalmadena, good shops and bars etc surrounding it. The local buses are frequent and cheap.
If you don't look for too much, you will enjoy this resort and hotel.
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Hotel Griego Mar - Torremolinos
Operator and Date: August 2005
Opinion submitted in Sept 2005 by : MB,JB, Glasgow
Resort Rating: Average
Accommodation Rating: Average
My/Our Holiday Review:
This resort is one of the oldest in Spain, a bit "60s" and in need of upgrading.
We can only say that the was hotel was average, we were there "all inclusive" and the staff at the bar were friendly enough and the food was good. A good point is that our room was air conditioned which we really needed as the weather was so hot, however the hotel reception area is not so you wouldn't want to sit around there!
Took the reception staff 40mins to book us in and that was only after an English member of staff stepped in.
You do get used to the place after a day or two, although we're glad we were only there for a week.
Hotel about a 20 minute walk from the beach (downhill) which means it is uphill on the way back! You will be greeted here by lots of time share touts. Take the lift back (next to Melia Hotel) as this reduces the amount of stairs you need to use to walk back up to the shopping area and hotel.
Nice enough shops in the main shopping area, lots of clothes and shoe shops. Go into Benalmadena on the bus (110 or 120) for only 1 euro each way and visit the shops and bars at the Marina area, really nice.
OK for a week in the sun, but we wouldn't go back to this resort or hotel again.
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Hotel Griego Mar - Torremolinos
Operator and Date: (First Choice Discounts) First Choice-may 27th to june10th 2005
Opinion submitted in June 2005 by : dawn -phil mereweather-wales 50 -57
Resort Rating: Average
Accommodation Rating: Good
My/Our Holiday Review:
moved to this hotel we were going to a hotel close to beach but there was still building work going on at our oiginal hotel .we were told of change just six days before due to travel.i had a knee op two weeks before we went on hols thats wye we choose hotel close to beach.
the greigo mar hotel is clean food is ok and rooms are kept clean.the only member of staff to speak to us were the cleaner that cleaned our room and one of the bar staff'as long as you were not british(or british on full board)are the only people the staff spoke to.the beach is 25mins away and down more than 345 steps.we did find a lift to beach after you worked through town you have to pay for this then when you get on beach it will cost you 8euros for two beds this monts up if you are down on beach which we had to do as the hotel pool is way to small for size of hotel.
we had a large crain out side our room whitch was not to bad but few days later a digger arrived .the digger started up at 7 30 every morning and went on untill 5oclock. so any rest in afternoon was not possible nor sitting on balcony . told rep hes said try to move us when room avalibull,we were moved to this hotel as the hotel we booked was having building work done yet there was building work done right out side our room .the first choice rep had lots of complaints from people but he no help.dont go to this hotel if you dont like walking or being ignorde by hotel staff.weather was brill up in mid to high 80s.
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Hotel Griego Mar - Torremolinos
Operator and Date: Medinland - May 2005
Opinion submitted in May 2005 by : Margot, Charlotte, Simon, Josh (42,15,11,10)
Resort Rating: Excellent
Accommodation Rating: Excellent
My/Our Holiday Review:
This was a fantastic holiday beyond all expectations.
Our family room was huge with beds for up to 7 people and the bathroom was massive, even had a double sink. Cleaners came every single day to make beds, change towels etc. Otherwise, staff left you alone unless you wanted anything which was great - no do's and don'ts every 5 minutes, and no hassling from reps as we booked through an agent.
We were half board but I had anticipated we would eat elsewhere at night but food was good enough to stay for, especially the sausages! Pool area can get crowded but there is a roof terrace (on top of floor 8, not the one near the pool) which is massive and no-one seems to know about it. We stayed for the entertainment every night and there were some really professional acts. Also, the animation team were great, my kids loved them.
The best part of the holiday though was the actual resort. There was absolutely no sign of any crime at all. Considering we have been robbed twice on holidays I have never felt so safe. The walk to Benalmadena Marina is a must, and, whilst there, a further 5 min walk to Paloma Park is essential. Kids loved it so much we had to go back twice-all sorts of animals (even rats!)to handle and feed, and it doesn't cost a penny. The cable car is another must. It's about 11 euros each but, once at the top the bird of prey,horse shows, and donkey rides are free and the meals are inexpensive too.
There is so much to do we can't wait to go back although I don't know if the atmosphere would be the same in higher season.
I would definitly recommend Torremolinos to families or couples although those with younger children mighy struggle with the steps, both in the hotel and the resort. The beach is about a 25 min walk. There are lifts - try and find the one in the shopping centre (turn left halfway down Avenida San Miguel).We didn't find this one till near the end of our holiday and it takes you almost onto the beach (30 cents each).
Overall, this was our best holiday ever (and we have had a lot)and we would be more than happy to return to Griego Mar.
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Hotel Griego Mar - Torremolinos
Operator and Date: (Thomas Cook Direct) Thomas Cook - March 2005
Opinion submitted in June 2005 by : M &J Bournemouth 40, 37
Resort Rating: Average
Accommodation Rating: Average
My/Our Holiday Review:
Booked last minute hol on net. Torremolinos typical rundown resort needs revamping, lots of tourist tat nice beach though. Went in March weather was terrible apart from last day when beach was ok.Snow on mountains looked nice Rain for 6 days practically non stop.
Hotel full of Spanish OAPs and Brits not nice, would not do all incl again brits got hammered swore all the time that was just the women, one guy exposed himself in the empty hotel disco god knows what the elderly spanish lady thought of him!!!
Woken up by 3 guys in next room fighting and shouting (swearing) for 3 hrs at 3.30 am thankfully the hotel threw them out the next night after many complaints. Would not go to this hotel again or all incl better to pay more and go 4 star, some nice ones along beach front.
Food grotty after 3 days of it, breakfst ok
found nice restaurant half way down hill to beach sea views good service peacful after zoo like feeding regime at hotel. View from hotel 9th floor sea and mountains apart from grey tower blocks in front of hotel looked like Beirut.
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Hotel Griego Mar - Torremolinos
Operator and Date: (Thomson Holidays
Direct) Thomson Holidays
- October 2004
Opinion submitted in Oct 2004 by : John Fairbrother - Trowbridge 58,57
Resort Rating: Excellent
Accommodation Rating: Excellent
My/Our Holiday Review:
Stayed here early October 2004 and we Only booked one week before and it was on a B&B basis.
We could not fault the Hotel as regards accommodation service and food you can pay an extra 10 euros a day to take the dinner at night which includes wine.
Some nights we used the restaurant but it was nice to