Hotel Castell D'Emporda

This hotel, a beautifully restored castle, offers a unique and memorable experience, primarily distinguished by its stunning panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. Guests are consistently captivated by the picturesque setting and the historic charm of the property. The attentive and friendly staff are frequently highlighted for their professionalism and dedication to guest satisfaction. While many praise the overall experience, some note that the hotel's significant focus on hosting weddings can impact the stay of other guests, particularly concerning noise and access to facilities. This makes the hotel an ideal fit for wedding guests and couples seeking a romantic or celebratory escape, as well as relaxation seekers looking for a tranquil environment, provided they are aware of potential event-related disturbances. For those planning a visit, it is advisable to inquire about scheduled events to ensure a serene stay and to consider rooms located away from potential wedding noise.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel provides a range of facilities for guest enjoyment, most notably its two swimming pools, which offer beautiful views and areas for relaxation. Guests appreciate the availability of outdoor seating and terraces throughout the property, perfect for enjoying the scenery. However, some guests have noted issues with the cleanliness of the pools and the limited availability of sun lounges, especially during peak times or events. While parking is readily available and convenient, the Wi-Fi connectivity is frequently reported as poor or unreliable across the property. Some guests also mentioned the absence of a vending machine or a late-night snack option, which can be inconvenient given the hotel's somewhat remote location. The property also features a gym, though its limited capacity was noted by one guest.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Feedback on room comfort and cleanliness is mixed. Many guests describe their rooms as spacious, modern, and well-maintained, with some praising the comfortable beds and the luxurious feel of the bathrooms, particularly those with balconies offering amazing views. However, a notable number of reviews highlight concerns about room condition, mentioning issues such as dirtiness, signs of wear, rusty fixtures, and even mold in some bathrooms. Some rooms were reported to have inadequate air conditioning or issues with water temperature and drainage in the shower. A significant recurring issue is the noise levels from wedding events, which can disturb guests, especially those in rooms with thinner walls or closer proximity to event areas, impacting the ability to sleep peacefully.

Dining & Food Quality
The hotel's breakfast consistently receives high praise, with guests commending its extensive variety, high food quality, and delicious options, including fresh and homemade items. The restaurant experiences, however, present a more varied picture. While many guests enjoy the gourmet offerings and find the dinner menu to be excellent, others express disappointment with the limited menu choices, average food quality, and small portions. Some describe the dining atmosphere as feeling like "mass catering" or a "canteen," particularly during busy periods. Issues such as flies in the pool bar restaurant and inconsistent service have also been mentioned. The lack of late-night snack options or a vending machine is a common point of feedback.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel boasts a remote location atop a hill, offering truly stunning panoramic views of the countryside, which is a major draw for guests seeking tranquility. It serves as a good base for exploring the surrounding region, including nearby towns and attractions. While parking is ample and convenient, guests frequently mention challenges with accessibility around the property. The approach to the hotel involves a rough dirt road with potholes, and within the grounds, some paths are described as uneven and not clearly marked. Guests with mobility challenges have reported difficulties navigating the gravelled areas and accessing certain facilities due to narrow ramps and inaccessible lifts, indicating a need for improved infrastructure for all guests.

Staff & Service
The staff at the hotel are overwhelmingly praised for their friendly and attentive service, with many guests highlighting their helpfulness, professionalism, and dedication to ensuring a pleasant stay. From the check-in process to assistance with luggage and providing local recommendations, the team is often described as going "above and beyond." Guests appreciate the staff's willingness to address concerns and their polite demeanor. However, some reviews mention instances of less experienced staff, occasional disorganization, or a perceived lack of interest, particularly in the dining areas. Despite these isolated comments, the overall sentiment points to a highly dedicated team committed to providing excellent customer service and making guests feel welcome.

Additional Information
A significant aspect of the hotel's operation is its role as a prominent wedding venue, which guests note can heavily influence the experience of non-wedding guests. Many reviews indicate that wedding events take priority, leading to facilities being closed or becoming crowded and noisy, impacting the peaceful atmosphere the hotel otherwise promotes. Some guests feel they become "second-class" during these times and suggest the hotel should inform guests about scheduled events in advance. There are also recurring comments about the hotel's maintenance, with some areas appearing "tired" or "worn down," suggesting a need for updates. While some guests find the hotel to be good value for money, others feel it is overpriced given the occasional inconveniences and the state of some amenities.