Tsarsko Selo Spa Hotel

This hotel complex, characterized by its spacious rooms and a unique layout of small buildings or villas nestled within a green, expansive park, offers a distinctive stay. Its most notable feature is the comprehensive spa facility, which draws many guests seeking relaxation. The hotel is particularly well-suited for solo business travelers looking for a quiet retreat after work, and for those with a car, it provides convenient free parking and easy access to nearby amenities. While some guests find the overall atmosphere peaceful and the rooms comfortable, others report significant issues with staff professionalism and the general upkeep of the facilities. To ensure a pleasant experience, guests should verify spa access policies and be prepared for the hotel's location on the city's outskirts.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel boasts extensive spa facilities, including a large indoor pool, a hot tub, and various saunas such as wet, dry, and aroma options, which are often highlighted as a major draw. An outdoor pool is also available, though some guests note the water can be quite cold. While the gym is considered decent, some spa amenities are occasionally out of order or show signs of wear, such as non-functional steam rooms or broken infrared saunas. Wi-Fi connectivity can be inconsistent, particularly in some rooms. The availability of free parking is a significant advantage for guests traveling by car. The hotel also features an event hall, which, while convenient for functions, can sometimes lead to noise disturbances for nearby rooms. In-room amenities vary, with some rooms offering a mini-bar, kettle, and coffee machine.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Feedback on room cleanliness and comfort is notably mixed. Many guests praise the spacious rooms and find them to be clean and well-maintained, appreciating the comfortable beds and the presence of a balcony. Complimentary toiletries are often highlighted as high quality. However, a significant number of reviews describe rooms as dirty, with complaints of hair and rubbish left from previous occupants, unpleasant smells, and general signs of neglect. Issues such as outdated furniture, rusty fixtures, mold in bathrooms, and even the presence of ants and cockroaches are reported. The functionality of air conditioning is inconsistent, with some units being ineffective or noisy. Some guests also dislike the glass doors in bathrooms, which offer little privacy, and note that sheets and towels are not always replaced consistently.

Dining & Food Quality
The breakfast offered at the hotel is generally described as basic but acceptable, typically featuring a variety of options like eggs, cold cuts, cheese, and pastries. However, many guests report that the hot food items are often served cold, and the coffee from the machines can be of poor quality or have added sugar. Fresh fruit is frequently noted as being absent or limited. The hotel's restaurant receives mixed reviews regarding its food quality and service; some guests find the meals enjoyable, while others are disappointed by the limited menu options and slow service. The bar facilities are sometimes criticized for closing early or having limited service, which can be inconvenient for guests seeking evening refreshments.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel's location on the outskirts of the city, adjacent to a busy ring road, is a point of contention among guests. While convenient for those with a car due to free parking and proximity to major roads, it means some rooms are exposed to highway noise and dust. For guests without a vehicle, reaching the city center requires reliance on public transport, which often involves a walk to the nearest bus stop and then a metro connection, making it less ideal for sightseeing. However, its position is advantageous for accessing nearby retail options, including Lidl, other supermarkets, and large shopping malls, as well as Ikea.

Staff & Service
Guest experiences with the staff and service are highly polarized. A considerable number of reviews highlight instances of rude staff, unhelpful attitudes, and a general lack of professionalism, particularly at the reception and in the restaurant. Guests report issues such as payment issues upon check-in despite prior online payments, ignored requests for room cleaning or amenities, and difficulties due to a language barrier. Conversely, other guests commend the friendly staff, describing them as professional, attentive, and helpful, especially the cleaning personnel and some receptionists who go out of their way to assist. The check-in process is sometimes described as smooth, while at other times it is complicated by staff demeanor or system issues.

Additional Information
Guests should be aware that spa access policy often requires an additional fee, and there are strict age restrictions for children entering the spa facilities. The hotel frequently hosts loud events such as weddings, which can lead to significant noise disturbances, particularly for rooms located near the event hall. A common complaint is the absence of slippers and bathrobes in the rooms, which is inconvenient given that the spa is in a separate building requiring guests to walk through public areas. Furthermore, some guests have reported recurring payment issues, where online bookings are not recognized, leading to demands for re-payment upon arrival.