Occidental Bilbao receives generally positive reviews across several categories.
Location-wise, the hotel is commended for its prime placement near the Santutxu metro station, making it easy to access Bilbao's city center and key attractions like the Old Town and Guggenheim Museum. The tranquil Begoña neighborhood, a mix of green spaces and local amenities, offers a quiet retreat without being too far from the action. Proximity to major thoroughfares and parking options benefit those traveling by car.
The breakfast at Occidental Bilbao is a standout feature, earning high marks for its extensive, high-quality buffet that caters to various dietary needs, including gluten-free options. Custom-made omelettes and a range of sweet and savory items contribute to a hearty and diverse breakfast experience, enhanced by the attentiveness of the staff.
Dinner reviews are more mixed but still highlight the quality and tastiness of the food. Specific dishes like the Iberian ham and Rioja wine receive special praise. However, the limited menu, small portions and short operating hours were noted as areas needing improvement.
The rooms at Occidental Bilbao are highly regarded for their spaciousness, comfort and modern design. Guests appreciate the clean bathrooms, comfortable beds and additional amenities such as kettles and coffee makers. Upper-floor rooms offering stunning views add to the appeal. While there were occasional issues with cleanliness and ventilation, the overall comfort and modern decor stand out.
Guests frequently praise the hotel's cleanliness, from rooms to common areas. The cleaning staff’s efficiency ensures a consistently neat environment, enhancing the comfortable stay.
The hotel staff receive high accolades for their friendliness, helpfulness and professionalism. Guests especially commend specific staff members who go above and beyond to assist, significantly enhancing the overall guest experience.
However, the hotel’s Wi-Fi is a common point of concern with many guests reporting weak, unreliable connections and slow speeds.
The hotel's spa is well-regarded for its cleanliness and well-equipped facilities with many finding the extra fees justifiable given the quality of the amenities. Minor issues such as busy periods and high costs for certain services were mentioned but did not significantly detract from the overall positive experience.
The gym, part of the Metropolitan chain, is praised for its equipment and cleanliness, though the additional fees for access were a common complaint. Those willing to pay found the gym facilities highly satisfactory.
Pool reviews are mixed. While many appreciated the clean and spacious pools, the additional fees and restricted access hours were points of frustration. The pool area's beauty and maintenance received positive comments, but unexpected closures and crowding detracted from the experience.
Occidental Bilbao with its convenient location, high-quality breakfast, comfortable rooms and friendly staff, offers an overall enjoyable stay, despite some areas needing improvement, especially relating to Wi-Fi and additional charges for amenities like the gym and pool.
Camping Igara de San Sebastián offers a delightful camping experience characterized by its serene forest setting combined with proximity to the vibrant city of San Sebastián. The location is ideal for those wanting a balance between nature and city life, providing a tranquil escape surrounded by lush greenery that invites relaxation and exploration through hiking and other outdoor activities. Despite its peaceful seclusion, the campsite is conveniently accessible to the city's beaches and attractions, augmented by options such as a shuttle bus for those without vehicles.
Guests frequently praise the campsite's clean and comfortable accommodations, including well-equipped bungalows and mobile homes, though feedback on older units notes some room for improvement in terms of maintenance and space. The facilities are supported by friendly staff who enhance the welcoming atmosphere. Dining options, particularly breakfast and dinner, are highlighted for their quality and service, with guests enjoying a variety of dishes, although price and availability criticisms do arise on occasion.
One of the standout features of the campsite is the large, immaculate swimming pool, which provides a serene oasis for relaxation and social interaction, complemented by a welcoming bar and restaurant. The pool area, set amidst beautiful landscapes, is highly regarded for its size and cleanliness, even if occasional operational hiccups occur.
Parking receives commendations for convenience, being both free and proximate to the accommodations, although WiFi connectivity presents some challenges, with inconsistencies noted particularly in peak times and back areas. The staff's dedication in ensuring a pleasant stay is frequently noted, with various team members singled out for their exceptional service.
In summary, Camping Igara de San Sebastián provides a harmonious blend of nature and urban convenience, offering a restful environment coupled with commendable hospitality and services, making it a favored choice for travelers seeking a peaceful yet connected camping experience.