Hotel Fuerte Conil Costa Luz

Formerly two separate hotels, Hotel Fuerte Conil-Costa Luz now operates as one property with a traditional Andalusian style. The lobby is marked by warm terra cotta tiles, deep rust-toned walls, and dramatic arched walls. The effect is homier than it is posh, especially with the addition of classic table lamps and floral couches in the adjoining hall, where seating is more abundant. Set on nearly 25,000 square meters (269,000 square feet) of gardens, the property’s lush surroundings are especially soothing and impressive. The central courtyard features a small pond surrounded by tropical plants, tall trees, and neatly manicured gardens. With a full menu of on-site activities and a sprawling complex of pools, it’s a smart choice for couples and families seeking a simple, lively hotel near the beach.

Overlooking La Fontanilla Beach, Hotel Fuerte Conil-Costa Luz is approximately a 10-minute walk from the center of Conil de la Frontera and just three minutes to the shore on foot. There are a few casual cafes along the beach. The Guzman Tower, a 14th-century fortification, is one of the area’s few remaining historic sights, and it’s about 15 minutes by foot from the hotel. The equally historic Santa Catalina Church is just a minute away from the tower, as is the Museo Raices Conilenas handicraft museum. The town’s largest park, Parque de La Atalaya, is a five-minute stroll from the property, while El Taller Del Arte, a popular arts center that showcases regular exhibitions and performances, is a 10-minute drive. Jerez Airport is just about an hour away by car. It's about two hours by car to Seville and its airport.

Cozy and simple, the rooms are all air-conditioned and neatly laid out with wooden and wicker furnishings. Overall the design is somewhat low-key, with pops of sky blue and beige, minimal artwork, and terra-cotta tile floors. All include flat-screen satellite TVs, free Wi-Fi, safes, and minibars, as well as furnished balconies featuring either garden or ocean views. Bathrooms are basic and lack major counter space, except for larger rooms with double sinks. Entry-level rooms start at 21 square meters (226 square feet), meaning there's a decent amount of space to spread out. The largest unit is the Junior Suite, which measures between 36 to 40 square meters (388 to 431 square feet) and includes a living room. Select units in the Fuerte Costa Luz building are bookable with an “Exclusive” package, which includes tea and coffeemaking facilities, a welcome basket, and a gift upon departure, as well as free parking and late checkout. 

There are several outstanding amenities at the hotel, beginning with its restaurants. The poolside Beach Club overlooks the ocean and serves a menu of contemporary local seafood dishes. El Olivo Restaurant is bright, airy, and spacious, with an ambience that reflects the hotel’s traditional Andalusian design. Despite its tablecloth-covered tables and handsome wood accents, it’s not overly dressy or posh, and it offers an extensive buffet of international dishes. There are also a pair of bars: the Noble in Fuerte Conil and the Bar Show in Fuerte Costa Luz, both of which feel a little old school thanks to their dark wood tones, plush seating, and nightly live performances. Wellness is a major theme at the hotel, too. There are four outdoor pools, including one with a hot tub and a sun terrace. There’s also a heated indoor pool at the Miramar Spa, which isn’t particularly large, but has many nice features and an array of hydrotherapy and beauty treatments. For the fitness-minded, there’s a small but functional gym and a tennis court. The game room is packed with video games, table tennis, and a pool table. The staff also offers other enjoyable activities, like horseback riding, wine tasting, cooking classes, and surf lessons, and there are several options for kids, too, available on weekends and during the high season only. Animation teams ply the hotel during the day in high season as well. The hotel offers self-parking and car rentals for a fee. Wi-Fi is free throughout the property, and kids 12 and under stay without charge.