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Summary of reviewsHotel El Castell enjoys an idyllic hilltop location with serene panoramic views over Barcelona and its surroundings. Its proximate yet tranquil setting provides a picturesque escape from the city hustle, conveniently close to Barcelona's international airport and well-connected via public transportation. Guests frequently laud the hotel's charming historical ambiance, coupled with lovely views from spaces like the pool and terraces, making it particularly appealing for couples and relaxation seekers. The staff's pleasant and helpful nature further enhances the guest experience, elevating the hotel's value, especially for short stays or layovers.
The hotel's breakfast offerings receive a range of feedback. Many guests commend the ample selections, fresh ingredients and the superb setting, often enjoyed on a terrace with great views. The impressive variety and quality of the buffet are frequently highlighted, though some guests have noted inconsistencies with issues like powdered eggs and minimal variety affecting their experience. Despite occasional criticisms, the breakfast is generally seen as a sturdy component of the hotel stay.
Dinner at Hotel El Castell is well-received overall with positive remarks on the delicious Mediterranean dishes and reasonable pricing. The friendly staff and pleasant ambiance of the restaurant, particularly on the terrace, add to the dining experience. However, some guests have noted inconsistencies in dish quality and preparation, along with occasional issues like rapid service and uncomfortable dining chairs.
The rooms at Hotel El Castell offer a peaceful and quiet ambiance with some rooms featuring spacious layouts and pleasant garden access. Many guests appreciate the large, comfortable beds. Nevertheless, a recurring theme in reviews is the outdated nature of the rooms with old furniture and maintenance issues like mold, musty smells and broken fixtures detracting from the overall experience. Noise insulation and temperature control systems have also been flagged as problematic areas.
Cleanliness, too, has mixed reviews with several guests expressing dissatisfaction regarding dirty grout, mold and dust, indicating a need for more rigorous cleaning practices. While some guests did note clean and comfortable bedding, the overall sentiment leans toward the necessity for improved cleanliness and maintenance.
The staff at Hotel El Castell generally receive praise for their friendliness and helpfulness with many guests highlighting exceptional customer service, particularly in the restaurant. Nonetheless, there are occasional concerns regarding overwhelmed and unfriendly reception staff, slow breakfast service and language barriers, although the overall impression is one of a team striving to ensure a positive guest experience.
Guests' experiences with the hotel's Wi-Fi vary with some noting a strong and stable connection and others reporting significant reception issues, especially in certain areas of the hotel. The provision of free Wi-Fi and smart TVs is appreciated, but improvements in reliability and coverage are suggested.
The pool area at Hotel El Castell is often highlighted for its sizable expanse, beautiful views and relaxing ambiance, enhanced by the surrounding garden and terrace. However, concerns about cleanliness and restricted access due to private events are noted, suggesting a need for consistent maintenance.
Families find Hotel El Castell particularly appealing for its kid-friendly environment and welcoming atmosphere, making it an ideal choice for family vacations. The hotel's beds are generally comfortable with many guests praising the bedding, though some report issues like sagging or overly soft mattresses.
As a three-star establishment, Hotel El Castell offers a mixed yet generally satisfactory experience, providing good value for money with essential amenities and a charming ambiance. Some guests have raised concerns about room conditions and prices, particularly during peak times, indicating room for improvement in standards and quality.
For business travelers, the hotel's strategic location, free parking and good workspace make it a practical option, despite criticisms about decor and Wi-Fi quality. Overall, the combination of essential amenities and a prime location contribute to its appeal for business stays. The outdoor pool area further enhances the hotel's attractiveness, offering a pleasant spot for relaxation. Show more
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Categories
Hotel for Honeymoon
Family Friendly Hotel
Dog Friendly Hotel
Hotel with Swimming Pool
Panoramic View Pool Pool Lap Lanes Outdoor Pool
Business Hotel
Cheap Hotel
Accessible Hotel
3-Star Hotel
Hotel with Outdoor Pool
Hotel with Pool Lap Lanes
Hotel with Panoramic View Pool
Room Types
Single RoomThis room have a window with street views and satellite TV.
Free welcome drink included.
Twin Room with Private GardenRooms at the hotel are spacious and elegant. They have exterior views and satellite TV.
Free welcome drink included.
Triple RoomThe air-conditioned triple room provides a flat-screen TV with satellite channels, a minibar, a wardrobe, a safe deposit box as well as garden views.
Double RoomThe air-conditioned double room offers a flat-screen TV with satellite channels, a minibar, a wardrobe, a safe deposit box as well as garden views. The unit offers 1 bed.
Twin RoomThe air-conditioned twin room features a flat-screen TV with satellite channels, a minibar, a wardrobe, a safe deposit box as well as garden views. The unit has 2 beds.
Double or Twin Room with Extra BedThe air-conditioned twin/double room offers a flat-screen TV with satellite channels, a minibar, a wardrobe, a safe deposit box as well as garden views.
Double or Twin Room with TerraceThe spacious air-conditioned twin/double room features a flat-screen TV with satellite channels, a minibar, a wardrobe, a safe deposit box as well as garden views.
Junior SuiteThe air-conditioned suite offers a flat-screen TV with satellite channels, a minibar, a wardrobe, a safe deposit box as well as garden views. The unit offers 1 bed.
Guest Reviews
7.2
Good
Location
Hotel El Castell enjoys a stunning hilltop location offering serene panoramic views over Barcelona and its surroundings. The hotel's elevated position immerses guests in a peaceful, picturesque setting away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Conveniently close to Barcelona's international airport—just a 15-minute drive—it serves as an ideal spot for travelers seeking both proximity to transportation hubs and a tranquil retreat.
The location offers easy access to several public transportation options, including train and metro services, making the city center reachable in about 20 to 30 minutes. This connectivity suits those intent on exploring Barcelona while staying outside the crowded areas. With free on-site parking and a spot near the train station, the hotel is also practical for those who prefer driving.
Guests have praised the hotel's charming historical ambiance and the lovely views from various vantage points, such as the pool and terraces. The peaceful and quiet surroundings make it an ideal location for couples and anyone looking to relax.
Traveler feedback highlights the pleasant and helpful staff, enhancing the overall experience of a stay at El Castell. The hotel's combination of scenic beauty, accessibility and tranquil environment makes it a good value, particularly for short stays or layovers.
Breakfast
Hotel El Castell offers a mixed bag when it comes to its breakfast experience. On the plus side, many guests appreciate the ample selections, fresh ingredients and pleasant setting, often served on a lovely terrace with superb views. The breakfast is generally described as varied and hearty with a range of both savory and sweet options and it is often highlighted as one of the best aspects of the hotel stay. Guests have praised the complete and delicious buffet offerings, including good quality and tasty dishes.
However, not all reviews are glowing. Several guests found the breakfast to be basic or needing improvement, mentioning issues such as powdered eggs, sour milk and minimal variety. Some even described it as the worst breakfast they've ever had, criticizing poor quality and the inattentiveness of staff. While many found the breakfast to be plentiful and satisfactory, others felt it was just sufficient with room for enhancement in certain areas like scrambled eggs and sausages.
In summary, while Hotel El Castell's breakfast has received high marks for its pleasant setting, variety and quality from many guests, there are notable criticisms that suggest inconsistencies in the experience.
Dinner
Hotel El Castell has received a mixed but largely positive response regarding its dinner offerings. Guests frequently compliment the food, describing it as good, very good and delicious. Highlights include excellent Mediterranean dishes and varied menus that cater to different tastes at a reasonable price. The restaurant itself is praised for its friendly staff and pleasant ambiance, especially when dining on the terrace with its green surroundings.
However, the dining experience at Hotel El Castell is not without its drawbacks. Some guests encountered issues with the quality and preparation of specific dishes, such as an unusual Caesar salad and meals served cold. There are also mentions of overly rapid service and occasional lapses in quality with some food described as tasteless or poorly prepared. Moreover, there were concerns about uncomfortable dining chairs and periodic issues with the dinner waitstaff's attitude and service.
Despite these hiccups, many guests find the hotel's dinner experience largely satisfying, particularly appreciating the affordability and the generally high quality of the Mediterranean cuisine.
Rooms
Hotel El Castell generally offers comfort and cleanliness with the rooms often being noted for their quiet and peaceful ambiance. Some guests appreciated the gardens and terraces, providing a pleasant outdoor space and praised the spaciousness of certain rooms. The large, comfortable beds and convenient room layouts were also highlighted positively.
However, there are several recurring issues mentioned in the reviews. A significant number of guests found the rooms to be outdated with old furniture and in need of major renovations. Many commented that the maintenance and cleanliness of the rooms left much to be desired, pointing out problems like mold, musty smells and broken fixtures. The bathrooms were often described as small and uncomfortable with some noting rusty faucets and cracked tiles.
Noise was another common complaint with thin walls providing little sound insulation. Some guests experienced problems with the air conditioning and heating systems, which either did not work properly or caused the rooms to be uncomfortably warm or cold.
In summary, while Hotel El Castell offers some comfortable and peaceful rooms with pleasant garden access, it is clear that significant updates and improved maintenance are needed to meet the expectations of all guests.
Beds
Hotel El Castell features a range of bed experiences, largely skewing towards comfort but with some notable exceptions. Many guests praised the comfortable beds, mattresses and bedding, describing them as comfortable and very comfortable. The mattresses and pillows, in particular, received positive feedback and the bedding is often highlighted as comfortable and recent. However, a few guests found the beds small and mentioned sagging or creaking issues. Several reviews indicated discomfort, citing hard, sinking or overly soft mattresses and some beds were deemed uncomfortable or even horrible. Despite the instances of dissatisfaction, the predominant sentiment is that the beds at Hotel El Castell generally provide a good night's sleep.
Cleanliness
Hotel El Castell has garnered mixed reviews regarding cleanliness with a predominant focus on areas of concern. While some guests found their rooms to be clean and appreciated the daily towel changes and general upkeep, many expressed dissatisfaction with specific aspects. Frequent complaints included dirty grout in bathrooms, mold and dust, indicating a need for more rigorous cleaning practices. Several rooms had a noticeable odor of smoke or tobacco, which detracted from the overall experience.
The age and condition of the furnishings, especially in the bathrooms, were commonly highlighted with guests noting that many fixtures were outdated and often in disrepair. There were instances of broken shutters, air conditioning issues and poorly maintained carpets and floors. The pool and its surrounding areas also failed to meet cleanliness expectations for numerous visitors.
While the room cleanliness was occasionally described as satisfactory, pervasive issues like hair on sheets, dirty bathtubs, rusty showerheads and general dirtiness in corners and on surfaces were reported. Despite these criticisms, some guests mentioned clean and comfortable bedding, as well as the helpfulness of the cleaning staff. The reviews suggest that while Hotel El Castell has the potential to offer a pleasant stay, significant improvements in cleanliness and maintenance are necessary to meet guest expectations consistently.
Staff
Hotel El Castell offers a mixed experience when it comes to staff interactions with a significant emphasis on positive phrases of commendation. Numerous reviews highlight the friendly, kind and helpful nature of the staff, often describing them as attentive and pleasant. Guests frequently mention the brilliant service they received with many noting exceptional customer service and professionalism, particularly in the restaurant. The hotel's 24-hour reception is praised for its friendliness and several individual staff members are singled out for going above and beyond expectations.
On the downside, there are instances of negative experiences with some reception staff being unfriendly, overwhelmed or making errors during check-out. Limited English skills and a lack of smiles from receptionists are also mentioned. Additionally, the service at breakfast was reported as slow and some guests found the staff too tired to provide good service, likely due to being overwhelmed by the number of events and guests.
Despite these occasional shortcomings, the prevailing sentiment among guests is one of satisfaction with the staff’s friendliness and willingness to assist. The overall impression is one of a team that, while sometimes stretched thin, generally aims to ensure a positive stay for their guests.
Wi-Fi
Guests at Hotel El Castell have varied experiences with the hotel's Wi-Fi. While some comment positively on the strong and stable connection with good Wi-Fi and high-speed wireless internet, others report significant issues. Several guests encountered spotty reception or limited bandwidth, especially on the 3rd floor and in corner rooms, where the signal was often poor or non-existent. However, it is noted that the Wi-Fi is free and there are smart TVs available for use. Despite these complimentary features, there is a consensus that the hotel has room for improvement in providing more reliable and uninterrupted internet access throughout the establishment.
Pool
The Hotel El Castell's pool area garners a mix of opinions from guests, yet it stands out as a prominent feature of the property. Many visitors appreciate its sizable expanse and the beautiful views it offers, creating a relaxing ambience perfect for unwinding after a long day. The garden and terrace surrounding the pool enhance its charm with guests frequently noting the benefit of the outdoor couches for a serene environment.
Despite the generally favorable impressions, several reviews highlight concerns about the pool's cleanliness and maintenance. Some guests report that the pool was unclean or appeared tired with edges turning green. Additionally, periods of restricted access due to private events have been mentioned, limiting the use of the pool at times.
Overall, the large and often quiet pool area, coupled with its pleasing garden and views, has left many visitors with a positive experience, though consistent upkeep could further enhance its appeal.
Family
Hotel El Castell stands out as an ideal destination for families, offering a perfect environment for both children and adults. The hotel's family-friendly atmosphere is consistently highlighted, making it a great choice for those traveling with kids. Guests have appreciated the calm and welcoming environment, contributing to a very good stay. The hotel's old rustic charm adds to its unique appeal, creating a serene and enjoyable experience for families. The staff have been commended for their friendliness, ensuring guests feel well-received upon arrival. Overall, Hotel El Castell is recognized as an exceptionally good family hotel, making it an excellent option for those seeking a kid-friendly holiday destination.
3 Star
Hotel El Castell, a three-star establishment, offers a mixed experience that aligns with its rating. Many guests appreciate the good value for money relative to the quality provided, noting that everything seems appropriate for a hotel of this standard. The pool is a highlight, enhancing the overall appeal of the hotel. The hotel presents a charming ambiance and is both family-friendly and accessible for business travelers.
However, some reviews highlight concerns about the cost versus the room conditions, mentioning that the quality does not always match the prices charged, especially during peak times like July. There are mentions of necessary upgrades, particularly with regards to outlets and certain amenities like the absence of an ironing board.
Overall, while the hotel meets basic expectations for a three-star rating, some guests feel the hotel does not always justify its pricing, suggesting discrepancies in standards and quality.
Business
'Hotel El Castell' is a notable choice for business travelers due to its advantageous location and functional amenities. It offers the convenience of free parking and is in close proximity to the airport, facilitating easy commutes for those on business trips. The hotel is located directly in the heart of Barcelona, making it a strategic base for accessing the city's business districts.
Although the decor in the rooms might be considered old-fashioned, they are well-kept and provide a comfortable stay. Guests have praised the meal quality and the hotel boasts a good workspace, which is an essential feature for business travelers. Despite these positives, some aspects require improvement, such as the renovation of terrace items and the poor wi-fi service, which could impact business activities that depend heavily on internet connectivity.
Overall, 'Hotel El Castell' has been recognized as a great option for business stays, offering essential amenities combined with a prime location in Barcelona.
Outdoor Pool
Hotel El Castell boasts an outdoor pool area that receives mixed reviews from guests. Many praise the pool for being beautiful, large and a refreshing relief after a long day. The terrace surrounding the pool offers nice views that enhance the relaxing atmosphere. Guests appreciate the spaciousness and tranquility of the pool area, often noting that it's never too busy.
However, some visitors have concerns about the pool's cleanliness and upkeep. The pool and surrounding area are described as dated and in need of maintenance with tired chairs and tables and loungers that are uncomfortable. Despite these issues, the pool itself remains a highlight for many, offering a great spot to unwind with its superb views and peaceful environment.
Dog Friendly
Hotel El Castell is an excellent choice for travelers with furry companions. The hotel welcomes dogs of all sizes, ensuring a pet-friendly environment throughout. Guests have appreciated the flexibility to bring their beloved pets, including having multiple dogs, which some hotels might restrict. The hotel staff is friendly, adding to the comfortable stay for pet owners.
Amenities include rooms with attached gardens, perfect for those staying with pets. Additionally, the terrace dining option allows guests to enjoy meals alongside their canine friends. Dog owners value these opportunities as they contribute to an inclusive and accommodating experience. Overall, Hotel El Castell meets the needs of dog owners seeking a hospitable and welcoming environment for their pets.
Yes, Hotel El Castell has pool(s) that belong to one or more of the following categories: Pool Lap Lanes, Panoramic View Pool, Outdoor Pool.
No, a spa isn't available at Hotel El Castell.
Yes, Hotel El Castell welcomes dogs.
No, parking facilities aren't available at Hotel El Castell.