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Summary of reviewsHotel Santa Maria de las Aguas Peñol is celebrated for its tranquil location, perched about 20 minutes from downtown and El Peñol, providing a serene escape in the heart of nature. The picturesque views from the rooms, pool and restaurant—especially of the reservoir and iconic Peñol Rock—are frequently highlighted by guests, emphasizing the breathtaking vistas at sunrise and sunset. The setting is complemented by well-maintained facilities, including a heated pool and common areas, contributing to a relaxing and enjoyable atmosphere. The hotel's proximity to tourist attractions like La Roca and Guatape further enhances its appeal, making it a favored choice for anniversaries and special occasions.
The hotel's breakfast garners high praise for its delicious and abundant offerings with great coffee and hot chocolate enhancing the experience. Though some guests mention a desire for more variety and better seasoning, the overall consensus is that the breakfast is satisfying and generous, paired with beautiful views that add to the dining enjoyment.
Dinner experiences receive mixed reviews; while many commend the high-quality and tasty à la carte options, others criticize the limited variety and high prices. The service quality in the restaurant also varies with some guests experiencing slow service. Nonetheless, the beautiful setting and service from attentive staff members elevate the dining experience for many.
Rooms at the hotel receive mixed feedback. Guests appreciate the cleanliness and excellent showers, along with the scenic views from some rooms. However, there are several areas for improvement, including room size, modernization and maintenance. Issues such as faulty fixtures, musty odors and inadequate amenities like air conditioning and ventilation are noted. Privacy concerns and the infrequent changing of linens and towels also detract from the overall experience.
Cleanliness across the hotel garners mixed opinions. While many praise the well-maintained facilities and clean rooms, others report issues like humidity, damp smells and occasional insect infestations. Inconsistent room cleaning services further highlight the need for improved housekeeping standards.
The staff at Hotel Santa Maria de las Aguas Peñol are generally described as friendly, attentive and helpful, significantly enhancing the guest experience. However, mixed reviews about the reception staff's professionalism indicate an area for improvement in front desk operations.
WiFi connectivity is another point of contention. While the internet service in common areas is generally well-received, many guests report unreliable WiFi in the rooms, suggesting a need for better coverage and speed throughout the hotel.
The gym receives positive feedback for being clean and well-equipped, although occasional flooding from locker room showers presents an inconvenience. The pool area, praised for its cleanliness, scenic views and comfort, stands out as a highlight of guests’ stays, despite minor setbacks concerning pool service and towels.
Parking facilities are a noted pain point with guests finding the area narrow, poorly managed and far from the rooms. Enhancing the parking experience could significantly improve overall guest satisfaction.
Finally, the hotel is lauded as a family-friendly destination, offering numerous activities for both children and adults. The heated pool and children's park are particularly appreciated, contributing to memorable family experiences in a charming and tranquil setting.
Overall, Hotel Santa Maria de las Aguas Peñol delivers a blend of excellent facilities, superb service and a sublime natural environment, making it a recommended destination for a peaceful retreat away from the hustle and bustle, especially for families seeking a serene getaway. Show more
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Categories
Hotel with Rooms With Jacuzzi / Hot-tub
Hotel Taking Steps Towards Sustainability
Hotel for Honeymoon
Family Friendly Hotel
Romantic Hotel
Hotel with Swimming Pool
Outdoor Pool
Business Hotel
Hotel with Parking
Accessible Hotel
Hotel with Gym
4-Star Hotel
Hotel with Outdoor Pool
Room Types
Guest Reviews
7.9
Good
Location
Hotel Santa Maria de las Aguas Peñol is nestled in a serene area about 20 minutes from downtown and El Peñol, providing a peaceful escape surrounded by nature's beauty. Guests consistently highlight the stunning views from the hotel’s rooms, pool and restaurant, particularly the mesmerizing sights of the reservoir and the iconic Peñol Rock. The landscape and natural setting leave a lasting impression, offering a total change of scenery and tranquility.
The hotel's proximity to tourist attractions like La Roca and Guatape is a noted advantage, although some guests mention that the remote location can be challenging to reach, especially on unpaved roads. Despite this, the idyllic setting and the scenic vistas are considered well worth the journey. The panoramic views, especially at sunrise and sunset, make it an ideal spot for relaxation and a favored choice for special occasions like anniversaries.
Facilities at the hotel, including a heated pool and common areas, complement the breathtaking environment. Visitors appreciate the attentive and friendly staff, who enhance the overall experience. The hotel's location by the lake allows for various water activities, adding to the appeal for adventure seekers.
In summary, Hotel Santa Maria de las Aguas Peñol offers a blend of excellent facilities, superb service and a sublime natural environment. Its picturesque setting, combined with comfortable accommodations and a range of amenities, makes it a recommendable destination for a peaceful retreat away from the hustle and bustle.
Breakfast
Hotel Santa Maria de las Aguas Peñol receives overwhelmingly positive feedback for its breakfast offerings. Guests frequently describe the breakfast as delicious, abundant and very complete with several noting that it was one of the best they have ever tasted. The breakfast includes great coffee and hot chocolate, which add to the overall enjoyable experience. Many reviewers appreciated the generosity and variety available, highlighting the beautiful views that accompany the meal.
However, some guests noted areas of improvement. There were mentions of the breakfast being too simple, lacking in variety and sometimes overly seasoned. A few pointed out that the buffet could be more diverse and abundant with some specific criticisms about the lack of fruit, cold food and fixed hours. Despite these minor drawbacks, the majority of guests still found the breakfast to be very tasty and satisfying.
The breakfast experience is complemented by the beautiful landscape surrounding the hotel and the friendliness of the staff, which adds to the overall pleasant atmosphere. While some found the breakfast average or lacking in personal attention, the consensus is that breakfast at Hotel Santa Maria de las Aguas Peñol is generally a satisfying start to the day.
Dinner
Hotel Santa Maria de las Aguas Peñol offers a dining experience that receives polarizing reviews from its guests. Many visitors commend the hotel for its delicious and high-quality food, frequently describing it as wonderful, excellent and very tasty. The à la carte options are often highlighted as notably good with some guests finding the cocktails equally enjoyable. Breakfast at the hotel also earns praise, being described as highly recommended and very good.
However, not all reviews paint a perfect picture. Some guests find the food options limited, particularly noting a predominance of fish dishes and expressing a desire for more gourmet choices and a greater variety of dishes. There are also complaints regarding the cost of dining with many reviews pointing out that the food and drink prices are excessively high for the quality offered. Specific critiques mention that certain dishes can be overly salty, very spicy or greasy and some guests found the food to be of low quality.
Despite these mixed reviews on the food itself, the service quality at the restaurant also varies. While many guests appreciate the friendly and attentive staff, others have experienced poor service with slow responses and an overall lack of attention.
In summary, the hotel's dining experience at Hotel Santa Maria de las Aguas Peñol can be a hit or miss, depending heavily on personal preferences regarding food variety, taste and price sensitivity. The beautiful setting and commendable service from certain staff members enhance the dining experience for many visitors.
Rooms
Rooms at Hotel Santa Maria de las Aguas Peñol elicit mixed feelings from guests, focusing on both their cleanliness and several significant areas for improvement. On the positive side, the rooms are often praised for being clean and featuring excellent showers. The views from certain rooms, particularly those overlooking gardens or other scenic spots, received positive mentions. On the whole, guests appreciated the comfort to some degree, finding the rooms tidy and adequately equipped for short stays.
However, numerous critiques highlight that the rooms are generally small, basic and in need of modernization. Several guests mentioned maintenance issues such as faulty doors, misaligned bathroom fixtures and musty or unpleasant odors. There were also complaints about the lack of amenities like air conditioning, fans and proper room ventilation. Privacy was a recurring issue due to poorly insulated walls and curtains that fail to block out light. Furthermore, some rooms did not match the descriptions or photos provided online, leading to disappointment among visitors. The lack of room service and infrequent changing of linens and towels additionally detracted from the overall experience. For guests planning a stay, it might be advisable to confirm room details beforehand to avoid surprises.
Beds
Reviewers of Hotel Santa Maria de las Aguas Peñol had diverse opinions on the beds. While some guests found the beds and pillows to be very comfortable and appreciated the clean bedding, others noted significant issues. Common complaints included hard and uncomfortable mattresses with some describing them as very hard or even like stones. Additionally, several guests remarked on the small size of the beds and the poor condition of the bedding, including dirty blankets and sheets with a yellow tint. Pillow comfort was also a concern for some, though less frequently mentioned. Despite these criticisms, a few guests still found their rooms to be comfortable overall. A prevailing suggestion was the need for improvement in this area to match the overall pricing and potential of the hotel experience.
Cleanliness
Hotel Santa Maria de las Aguas Peñol receives mixed reviews about its cleanliness and related services. Many guests praised the hotel for its overall cleanliness, noting that the facilities are well-maintained and very clean. Rooms and bathrooms are often described as clean and organized, especially enjoying the comfort and cleanliness of the lake shore and common areas. The hotel itself is highlighted as very beautiful and super cute with incredible and attentive staff who offer good and friendly service.
However, there are notable issues that guests frequently pointed out. Some rooms were found to have humidity problems, damp smells and even mold. Insects and cockroach infestations were reported by a few, as well as dirty walls and bed sheets. Towels were sometimes incomplete for the number of guests and in some instances, the pool was dirty and Jacuzzis were not well-maintained. The room cleaning service appeared inconsistent; some rooms were not cleaned during their stays and specific complaints were made regarding cobwebs, hair on floors and unclean bathrooms.
While some guests experienced excellent cleanliness and found everything very clean, others noted a considerable lack in certain aspects, leading to the conclusion that the hotel’s cleanliness standards can vary significantly. Despite these issues, the keen service from the staff and the beauty of the surroundings remain strong points for the hotel.
Staff
Hotel Santa Maria de las Aguas Peñol stands out for its exceptional staff who are generally described as attentive, friendly and helpful. Many guests have praised the excellent customer service and professionalism displayed by the majority of the staff, especially noting their kindness and readiness to assist with any issues. The restaurant staff is often commended for their service and the varied, tasty breakfast offerings contribute positively to the guests' experiences.
The reception staff, however, receives mixed reviews. While some guests found them friendly and helpful, others reported unprofessional behavior and a lack of responsiveness. Instances of poor reception service and rude behavior from the receptionists, including the manager, were noted by several visitors. This inconsistency highlights an area for improvement in the hotel's front desk operations.
Despite some reservations about communication and organization among the staff, many reviews still underscore the incredible service experience with special mentions of individual staff members going above and beyond. The positive interactions with the staff contribute significantly to the overall pleasant stay at the hotel, making guests feel welcomed and cared for.
Wi-Fi
Hotel Santa Maria de las Aguas Peñol offers a mixed experience when it comes to internet connectivity. Guests frequently reported that WiFi in the rooms is inconsistent, often unavailable or significantly unreliable. Many reviews indicated that the signal doesn't reach individual rooms well, leaving guests without internet access where they might need it the most. Several visitors described the internet service as slow and unstable with some even mentioning that there was no WiFi service in their rooms at all.
However, there are positive notes on the WiFi in the hotel's common areas. Guests have appreciated the good and stable WiFi service around the pool and main areas of the facility. This suggests that while the hotel may fall short in room-specific connectivity, those needing to stay connected might find satisfactory service in the public spaces. Improvements in coverage and speed have been suggested to enhance the overall guest experience.
Gym
The gym at Hotel Santa Maria de las Aguas Peñol has received generally positive feedback from guests. Many appreciated that it was clean and described it as very well-equipped and very good. Another guest noted that it was decent, indicating satisfaction with the available facilities. However, there were some critical points. The gym was reported unusable at times due to flooding from the locker room showers and there were multiple mentions of wet areas, which contributed to a less favorable experience for some guests. Despite these issues, the overall sentiment leaned towards appreciation of the gym's cleanliness and equipment.
Pool
Hotel Santa Maria de las Aguas Peñol boasts an impressive pool area that has captivated many of its guests. The standout feature is undeniably the heated pool, which several guests have praised for being especially enjoyable and great for kids. Many guests found the pool very nice and well-maintained, noting its cleanliness and the comfort it offers. The pool is also admired for its stunning views, particularly the beautiful vista over the dam, making it a perfect spot for relaxation.
The facilities, including the pool and Jacuzzi, are strategically located and add to the overall aesthetic and enjoyment of the place. The wet areas are also well appreciated, contributing to the positive experience. While the majority of guests enjoyed the pool, a few reviews pointed out areas for improvement such as the pool service, the condition of the pool towels and occasional issues with cleanliness. Despite these minor setbacks, the overall consensus is that the pool area at Hotel Santa Maria de las Aguas Peñol is a highlight of the stay, offering a delightful mix of warmth, scenic views and relaxation.
Parking
The reviews about parking at 'Hotel Santa Maria de las Aguas Peñol' suggest that the parking facilities could benefit from significant improvements. Many guests noted that the parking area is very narrow, making it challenging for larger vehicles like vans to fit comfortably. Additionally, the proximity of the parking lot to the rooms is less than ideal with some mentioning that the parking area is quite far from their accommodations. The management of the parking seems inadequate and there is a recurring complaint about a lack of sufficient parking space on the premises. Despite the scenic and charming aspects of the hotel, enhancing the parking experience would likely lead to more satisfied guests.
Family
Hotel Santa Maria de las Aguas Peñol stands out as an ideal family destination, offering a myriad of activities that cater to both young and old. The family-friendly atmosphere is repeatedly praised with social spaces designed to engage children of all ages. Guests frequently highlight the heated pool and the children's park as standout features that contributed to their kids' enjoyment.
The hotel's charm and fabulous views provide a tranquil getaway, perfect for creating lasting family memories. It’s particularly noted for being off the beaten path, offering a serene escape from the hustle and bustle. The family-oriented environment is complemented by attentive staff, making stays comfortable and enjoyable.
However, there are a few aspects that could be more family-friendly, such as the hotel's policy on charging additional fees for young children. Additionally, the hot tub access could be improved for ease of use.
Overall, Hotel Santa Maria de las Aguas Peñol comes highly recommended for families seeking a relaxing and fun-filled retreat. Its strong focus on creating a pleasant environment for both children and adults makes it a favored choice for family vacations.
4 Star
Hotel Santa Maria de las Aguas Peñol offers a beautiful and clean environment with facilities that are generally acceptable and often praised for their excellent quality. Guests particularly enjoyed the fantastic heated water and the impressive views from the hotel. Many found their experience in line with four-star expectations, mentioning that it felt like a four-star stay, despite some areas requiring improvements. On the downside, the service received some criticism for not always meeting the four-star standard. Overall, the hotel delivers a wonderful experience, though certain aspects, such as service quality, might not fully align with its four-star rating.
Rooms with Jacuzzi / Hot-Tub
The Hotel Santa Maria de las Aguas Peñol offers a mixed but often positive experience when it comes to its jacuzzi and hot tub amenities. Guests frequently highlight the excellent views from the jacuzzi, particularly those overlooking the dam and find the heated pool and two additional hot tubs quite appealing. The strategic placement of these jacuzzis adds to the enjoyment, allowing guests to appreciate the fantastic views.
However, there are several mentions of cleanliness issues with some jacuzzis and whirlpools described as dirty or out of service. Additionally, the temperature control seems inconsistent, as some guests found the jacuzzi water not constantly warm and in some cases, cold. This inconsistency can detract from an otherwise relaxing experience.
Despite these drawbacks, when the facilities are in proper working order, the jacuzzis in the hotel provide a pleasant and relaxing enhancement to the overall stay with the heated options being particularly appreciated. It is noteworthy, however, that the jacuzzi in the rooms is actually a bathtub, which may differ from expectations.
Business
Hotel Santa Maria de las Aguas Peñol receives positive feedback from business travelers for its high-quality offerings and convenience. Guests appreciate the ease of obtaining necessary supplies and find the facilities suitable for business meetings, despite the lack of a designated business center or specific business amenities. The hotel's pricing is frequently highlighted as reasonable and worthy of the services provided. However, ongoing work at the hotel can cause early morning noise disturbances. The general goodwill of the staff also contributes to a pleasant stay. The hotel's location is advantageous and overall, the facilities effectively meet the needs of business travelers.
Accessible
Hotel Santa Maria de las Aguas Peñol's accessibility for guests with disabilities has received mixed reviews. While some parts of the hotel are accessible, there are notable challenges for those with reduced mobility. The hotel does not provide accessible parking or ramps and there's a problematic entrance that isn't ideal for a hotel of its size. The existing ramps are steep and there are too many stairs, which further complicates movement for wheelchair users or those who cannot navigate steps easily.
Accessing El Peñol from the hotel is feasible by different modes of transport, such as a moto taxi, tuk tuk or bus, but these may not be the best options for all, especially not for those who rely on wheelchairs. For a more detailed and personalized travel plan, considering the availability of local transportation like the Chivero or buses might be necessary for guests with mobility issues.
Outdoor Pool
Hotel Santa Maria de las Aguas Peñol boasts a remarkable outdoor pool area that has received extensive praise from guests. Highlighted features include a huge infinity pool that offers spectacular views and is perfect for relaxation. The pool is heated, ensuring a comfortable swim regardless of the weather and is accompanied by strategically located jacuzzis that add to the luxurious experience.
The facilities surrounding the pool, including the Turkish bath and various wet areas, are described as very nice and well-maintained. Guests also appreciate the overall cleanliness of the pool area, contributing to a very pleasant and beautiful environment. Additionally, the presence of a pool attendant and poolside music enhance the experience, making it a delightful spot for visitors to unwind.
While there are some mentions of maintenance issues, particularly regarding the pool walls and the closing time at 9 pm, the overall sentiment is highly positive. The combination of heated pools, wonderful views and excellent facilities make the outdoor pool at Hotel Santa Maria de las Aguas Peñol a standout feature for guests seeking relaxation and enjoyment.
Honeymoon
Hotel Santa Maria de las Aguas Peñol emerges as a perfect haven for honeymooners, making it an ideal spot for romantic getaways. Its honeymoon service consistently receives high praise, indicating exceptional care for newlyweds. Guests highlight the breathtaking romantic views, enhancing the experience.
The hotel's breakfast has been noted as quite good, adding to the overall pleasurable stay. However, the rooms, while providing a charming ambiance, tend to be on the darker side, which might not suit everyone's preference. Despite this, the exceptional service from staff, including the commendable efforts of Marie, the new housekeeper, contributes positively to the guest experience.
Overall, Hotel Santa Maria de las Aguas Peñol is highly recommended for those seeking an amazing and romantic honeymoon destination.
Romantic
Hotel Santa Maria de las Aguas Peñol stands out as a picturesque and peaceful setting, ideal for those seeking a romantic escape. The scenic beauty of its surroundings adds a unique charm with beautiful sunrises and sunsets that create a perfect backdrop for couples. The hotel’s seclusion enhances its romantic appeal, making it a top recommendation for honeymooners and those in search of a serene getaway. The views from the hotel are consistently praised, conveying a sense of tranquility and connection with nature. Guests frequently highlight the opportunity to capture stunning photographs, enjoying the beauty and peace that the location offers. The hotel provides the perfect environment for couples to share special moments, further accentuated by the breathtaking scenery and divine views. Whether for a romantic trip or a peaceful retreat, Hotel Santa Maria de las Aguas Peñol offers an ideal setting to unwind and enjoy nature's splendor.
Yes, Hotel Santa Maria de las Aguas Peñol has pool(s) that belong to one or more of the following categories: Outdoor Pool.
No, a spa isn't available at Hotel Santa Maria de las Aguas Peñol.
No, Hotel Santa Maria de las Aguas Peñol doesn't allow dogs.
Yes, parking facilities are available at Hotel Santa Maria de las Aguas Peñol.
Yes, Hotel Santa Maria de las Aguas Peñol has a gym.