Globales Gardenia

The Globales Gardenia's setting surrounded by lush gardens and facing the ocean is its primary drawcard. The hotel's architecture is average and the furnishings throughout are dated and in need of a refresh. The lobby and restaurant do have gleaming marble floors, but the buffet eatery's patterned curtains and the bar's red and blue armchairs are old-fashioned. Affordable rates and the widespread sea views -- particularly from rooms and a green lawn lined with loungers -- make the property a decent enough value for some. Most guests are couples, but families will be happy to find a kiddy pool, game room, and playground. 

The hotel is a bit removed from the center of Fuengirola, about an eight-minute drive or 40-minute walk. Its waterfront setting is certainly a pro though, and there are still plenty of bars and restaurants within walking distance. A bus stops just outside the hotel and the Torreblanca train station is a 10-minute walk away. Other must-see spots in the area, such as the Fuengirola Street Market (eight-minute drive), Miramar Shopping Center (seven-minute drive), and the Sohail Castle (seven-minute drive) are better reached by car. 

Guest rooms are dated, featuring white walls and white-tile flooring, minimal old-fashioned wood furniture, blue-striped bedding, and blue floral curtains. Colorful Joan Miro paintings add a touch of personality. The spaces are also bright, thanks to the large windows flanking glass doors that lead to the furnished balconies. A major plus is that all rooms have at least partial sea views. Also standard are air-conditioning, flat-screen TVs, and work desks, but no mini-fridges and safes require a fee. Bathrooms, unexpectedly, have a more contemporary aesthetic with light-gray tiling and white-marble vanities. They come with shower/tub combos and free bath products, but lack hairdryers. 

The hotel has a solid list of features, and enough to keep kids busy. The main outdoor pool is on the small side, as is the tiny kiddy pool next to it, but the deck is spacious and has ample loungers and a stage for occasional entertainment. More sunbeds can be found in the pretty garden area with views of the ocean. Of course, the beach access is one of the biggest perks of this hotel. Guests can get to the beach through the gate found in the back of the hotel, and there guests can rent loungers. A heated indoor pool is also available, and a whirlpool and sauna are in this area, too. An indoor game room has a pool table and a few video game options, plus there's a playground and swing set outside for kids. There's no gym. The buffet restaurant on-site receives so-so reviews, but the free breakfast spread receives the best feedback. All-inclusive options are also available for those that want to simplify their stay.