Sian Victoria © - Cabogata Jardín Hotel, Retamar

Best Beachfront Hotels & Places To Stay in Retamar, Almeria

Nestled in the scenic coastal town of El Toyo, the Cabogata Jardin Hotel is an ideal spot for tourists seeking a tranquil holiday. Unlike popular European destinations for beach holidays in Spain such as Ibiza and the Costa Daurada, Almeria is Southeastern Spain's hidden gem that receives fewer visitors. So, if you crave a peaceful and less crowded location, look no further.

Boasting spectacular views of the Mediterranean Sea and offering an array of amenities, this four-star hotel provides an unforgettable experience for guests, including all-inclusive options. The hotel sits in the Retamar resort and enjoys direct access to the charming palm-lined promenade, Playa del Retamar beach, several food and beverage establishments at Plaza del Mar, and the mountains and nature reserves bookending the beachfront strip.

Desiring some winter warmth, my partner and I booked a ten-day package holiday from Birmingham to Almeria for £1,041.74 in October, featuring bed and breakfast, a brief 20-minute transfer to and from Almeria airport, and an additional fee to upgrade the room to a deluxe double room with a sea view and balcony at the Cabogata Jardin Hotel.

So, come and peek at our independent stay at this modern upmarket hotel next to the beach in Retamar.

The Lobby at Cabogata Jardin Hotel

Upon our arrival at Cabogata Jardin Hotel, we were delighted to find that it lived up to our expectations based on what we had viewed online. The transfer dropped us off at the hotel and its grandeur and beautiful surroundings immediately struck us. The modern white architecture blended seamlessly with traditional Spanish design, making it a sight to behold.

Although there was a slight language barrier during check-in, the process was smooth and efficient. The reception staff didn't speak English and our Spanish was inadequate, so we didn’t receive any of the necessary information to navigate the large courtyard layout of the hotel.

Since we had arrived early in the morning and were unable to check into our room, we dropped off our luggage and took some time to relax by the pool. The lobby itself was wonderful, with a spacious layout and elegant decor that included a high glass roof ceiling area adorned with devil ivy plants hanging from the hallway railings outside the rooms above.

One couldn't help but be captivated by the stunning view of the Mediterranean Sea through the floor-to-ceiling windows. It was the perfect introduction to the natural beauty that we would come to experience throughout our stay.

The Accommodation: Deluxe Double Room With A Sea View And Balcony

As soon as we checked into the Cabogata Jardin Hotel, we were immediately pleased by the level of comfort and modernness it provided. Our spacious deluxe double room was beautifully decorated with a stylish and slightly bohemian aesthetic, complete with comfortable beds outfitted with white linens and cosy pillows that made for a restful night's sleep.

One of the most impressive features of our room was the beautiful view of the Mediterranean Sea that greeted us each morning. Waking up to the sight of the sparkling blue waters was truly a treat, and the large floor-to-ceiling balcony windows allowed for ample natural light to flood in, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere overlooking the courtyard below where the pool and dining area reside.

In terms of amenities, we were happy with the quality of everything provided in the room. The bathroom was sleek and stocked with vegan and cruelty-free toiletries, while the rainfall shower over the bath provided a refreshing and rejuvenating experience. However, we did notice some tiny areas of mould and dirt in the tiles upon closer inspection. The bathroom lighting was also perfect for getting ready in the evenings.

The room also came equipped with a large fridge hidden in the spacious wardrobe, a flat-screen TV with access to YouTube and Netflix, complimentary fast Wi-Fi, two bottles of water, and a big bag of crisps. We particularly enjoyed the large comfortable sofa that transformed into a sofa bed, the desk with a lovely rattan-style chair, and the coffee machine stocked with additional coffee pods and tea bags.

Since we paid to upgrade to a sea view room with a balcony, we were thrilled to discover that the balcony was spacious and outfitted with tables and chairs and drying facilities. Best of all, it had lovely side views of the beachfront and the mountains in the distance, providing us with an unforgettable experience of watching the sunset from our balcony during our visit in October.

Overall, we were quite satisfied with the room's level of comfort and amenities. The only drawback we experienced was the echo created by other guests walking past our room and rolling their suitcases down the open, tiled hallway. However, it's worth noting that these features were essential to the hallway's appealing modern, bright, and airy aesthetic, so the noise couldn't be helped.

Dining Options at Cabogata Jardin

Cabogata Jardin Hotel offers an array of dining options that will surely delight even the most discerning food connoisseurs, especially if you're a meat and dairy enthusiast. Unfortunately, if you're vegan like me you’ll be disappointed. From Mediterranean buffets to Mexican-Italian fusion, and from American sports bars to casual poolside dining, there's something for most guests. Each restaurant and bar features its own unique ambience and cuisine, providing guests with a diverse selection of culinary offerings.

For those who crave a taste of the Mediterranean, La Costa is the perfect choice. This restaurant hosts the breakfast, lunch, and evening meal buffet service, offering a wide variety of starters, meats, fish, and desserts that are sure to tantalise your taste buds. The spacious and modern restaurant boasts floor-to-ceiling windows and mirrors that reflect views of the pool, palm trees, and beach, creating a warm and inviting environment.

However, those following a vegan diet may find the lack of meat-free protein options disappointing as there’s nothing for you to have, limiting your choices to vegetarian options such as pancakes and pastries or plant-based bowls of fruit, vegetables, toast, or cereal with soya milk.

Bella Catrina is the place to be for those who are seeking a more adventurous dining experience. This unique Mexican and Italian fusion restaurant, which is open during the summer season, serves perfectly balanced and innovative dishes. From Mexican-inspired pizzas to traditional Italian pasta dishes with a twist, Bella Catrina takes your taste buds on a flavourful journey. Dine poolside and pair your meal with a refreshing beer or good wine for a laid-back experience.

If you're a sports enthusiast, Striker American Sports Bar is the perfect spot to catch the game while indulging in food and drink. This bar features large screens that broadcast all the sports and shows you could want, providing a comfortable and casual atmosphere where you can enjoy food combos and refreshing beer. Whether you prefer American classics like burgers and wings or hearty steak, Striker has something for everyone except for vegans.

Tikki Pool Bar offers a more casual and refreshing dining experience in the centre of the hotel's crystal-clear swimming pools. The menu features a variety of snacks and lunches for both children and adults, providing something to satisfy most cravings. Whether you're in the mood for a light salad, a refreshing cocktail, or a tasty burger, Tikki Pool Bar has something to offer.

In conclusion, Cabogata Jardin Hotel provides guests with a diverse selection of culinary options. Each restaurant and bar has its own unique ambience and cuisine, ensuring that there's something to satisfy most preferences. If you're unable to find meals at the hotel to suit your dietary requirements, you may have better luck at the picturesque Plaza Del Mar, where you'll find some of the best restaurants with vegan food in Retamar conveniently located a short stroll away along the promenade.

Fun and Relaxation: Exploring the Facilities and Services

The hotel offers a range of facilities and services that cater to every guest's needs and desires, while on holiday.

One of the hotel's key highlights is its fantastic swimming pools and aquaparks, where guests can take a refreshing dip or lounge poolside on comfortable sun loungers. With two spacious swimming pools and a paddling pool for children, the entire family can enjoy the water at their leisure.

Additionally, the Splash Zone offers excitement and entertainment with its water park. Visitors without children can take comfort in knowing that the children's pool area is conveniently situated away from the main pool. This means that even during the busiest season, you can enjoy a relaxing time without any interruptions. As big kids, adults are permitted to experience the thrill of riding the larger pool slides. We took advantage of this opportunity on a few occasions and found it to be quite enjoyable.

Cabogata Jardin Hotel caters to younger guests with a variety of educational and enjoyable children's workshops led by experienced staff. From arts and crafts to sports and games, children aged 4 to 12 can have fun and engage in various activities throughout their stay. These workshops take place in the Connect Lounge located on the ground floor, providing the perfect environment for children to explore and create while the adults unwind by the pool.

For guests seeking a break from the sun, the hotel features an indoor swimming pool that provides a peaceful and tranquil atmosphere. Whether you prefer to swim laps or relax in the water, the indoor pool is the ideal spot to unwind. Guests should note that a swimming cap must be worn before taking a dip.

Fitness enthusiasts can enjoy the hotel's well-equipped gym, open from 8:00 am to 8:00 pm. The gym offers state-of-the-art equipment and a variety of exercise options for guests of all fitness levels to enjoy. This is the perfect opportunity to stay active and start your day on a healthy note.

The Surrounding Area: What’s Near Cabogata Jardin Hotel

When staying at Cabogata Jardin Hotel, you'll not only enjoy the beautiful accommodation and amenities, but you'll also have the stunning surroundings of Retamar to explore. Situated in the coastal town of El Toyo, this hotel's location offers guests access to a variety of attractions and activities.

For nature lovers, the Cabo de Gata-Níjar Natural Park is a must-visit. Located a short drive or two bus journeys away from the hotel, this protected area is home to stunning landscapes, pristine beaches, and unique flora and fauna. Whether you're up for hiking, birdwatching, or simply enjoying a day at the beach, this natural park has it all.

At this top attraction in Almeria, you may have the luck of sighting hundreds of nesting flamingos. Alternatively, take a leisurely stroll along the endless stretch of beach or explore the nature reserves flanking the hotel to witness the small geckos basking amidst the scenic palm trees and cactus plants.

If you're interested in history and culture, a visit to Almería is a must. This historic city is known for its impressive architecture, including the Alcazaba, a Moorish fortress that offers panoramic views of the city and the Mediterranean Sea. Additionally, Almería is home to a variety of museums, including the Museum of Almería, where you can learn more about the region's rich history and cultural heritage.

The bus to travel to Almeria from the hotel is conveniently located outside the entrance on the opposite side of the road, it costs 1.05 euros each per ride and we were able to pay by contactless.

For golf enthusiasts, the Alboran Golf Course is located just a short distance from the hotel. With its beautiful views and challenging layout, this golf course offers a memorable experience for players of all skill levels.

No matter your interests, the surrounding locale of Cabogata Jardin Hotel offers something for everyone. From natural beauty to cultural attractions, you'll have plenty to explore and discover during your stay.

To conclude

Having thoroughly enjoyed our stay at the Cabogata Jardin Hotel, we are confident in saying that we would not hesitate to return. The hotel met our expectations in every regard, boasting stunning ocean vistas, a serene botanical garden oasis by the pool, and chic modern accommodations.

Furthermore, the hotel's ideal location along the Retamar promenade, lined with verdant palm trees and wild foliage, makes it a superb choice for nature enthusiasts such as me. It was the perfect base to enjoy some of the best things to do in Almeria.

Nonetheless, we were a bit disappointed by the lack of meat-free protein options at breakfast, especially since there was a conscious effort to provide vegan and cruelty-free toiletries in both the rooms and public restrooms, so it was sad to find that the same level of consideration had not been given when it came to the food options available at the many restaurants at the hotel.

In addition, we encountered some language barriers while communicating with the staff due to our own lack of Spanish proficiency, these were minor inconveniences in an otherwise exceptional experience.

Ultimately, we felt that the amount we paid was certainly worth it considering the overall value we received, and we felt completely safe and secure in Retamar, which is a delightful destination for anyone seeking a tranquil escape in Almeria.

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