Vincci Seleccion Aleysa Hotel Boutique & Spa

In a part of the Costa del Sol that's packed with worn and dated resorts frequented by screaming kids and partiers, the Vincci Seleccion Aleysa Hotel is a lovely departure. This sophisticated boutique property makes a good first impression, with a lovely beige facade featuring white columns and wrought iron railings. Potted topiary, palm trees, a fountain, and flowers perk up the welcome, and upon stepping inside there are several seating areas with cream-colored leather sofas and chairs where guests can wait while checking in. It's not the most chic space we've ever seen -- the pink color scheme and abundance of signage cheapen the overall effect -- but things are far more attractive as guests move throughout the hotel. This is the Costa del Sol, after all, and there's little if any point of hanging out in the hotel's lobby all day. As such, most of the hotel is oriented toward the sea, with water views from all of its rooms, as well as its restaurants and pools. This is an elegant, relaxing place that's most appealing to couples, but families and small groups of friends pass through as well.

This hotel is located on the beach, next to a popular promenade that skirts the Mediterranean Sea. There are plenty of restaurants, bars, and other hotels nearby, and Paloma Park -- a fine place for a stroll -- is a 10-minute walk from the hotel. It's a 15-minute walk in the opposite direction to Benalmadena's marina, where all manner of traveler-friendly tours and shopping are available. Expect a 10- to 15-minute walk to Arroyo de la Miel, the touristy part of Benalmadena that's filled with restaurants and shops. Aqualand in Torremolinos is about 10 minutes away by car. It's a 15-minute drive to the compact old town of Benalmadena, also known as Benalmadena Pueblo. Malaga is about 30 minutes away by car, as is Tivoli World amusement park. Malaga's airport is a little closer than the city of Malaga -- it shouldn't take more than 20 minutes to reach by car.

Rooms at the hotel are chic and elegant, with neutral color schemes composed of brown, beige, and white creating a look that's soothing and modern -- especially when compared to the often dated and bland mid-range options in the region. Furniture has dark wood veneer surfaces that are complemented by dark wood laminate floor tiling. Abstract art on the walls brightens things up a bit, and cream-colored fabrics and upholstery feel fresh and upscale. All rooms have plenty of space, with even entry-level Double Rooms offering a proper seating area. Some higher-category rooms -- like the Duplex Suite -- have two floors and separate bedrooms. The welcome bottle of cava is a lovely romantic touch, and all rooms come with pillow menus as well. Standard amenities include free Wi-Fi, air-conditioning, minibars, safes, electric kettles, and flat-screen TVs. Bathrooms are spacious and sleek, and feature with separate soaking tubs and sharp walk-in showers done in mosaic tiles. Hairdryers, toiletries, robes, slippers are all included. All rooms face the sea, but some balconies are shared, sitting off of the walkways between rooms. Other rooms have direct pool access.

The Vincci Seleccion is a head above the local competition in most categories, and that doesn't stop with the hotel's features. The restaurant, Alamar, is a lovely space bathed in white. It has beautiful views of the sea through large windows, and live piano music plays in the evenings. Food -- a modern twist on Spanish and Mediterranean cuisine -- is well-liked by previous guests. There's also a bar in the lobby and one by the pool for drinks and snacks on the patio overlooking the sea. The hotel has plenty of lounge chairs set up on the beach and they are spaced to maximize privacy between pairs, which is a welcome change compared to some of the seaside resorts nearby. There are also two outdoor pools, and while both are compact, they are stylish. Cushioned lounge chairs and umbrellas are provided at both pools, and the larger pool has a single daybed and a hot tub. One of the pools is saltwater, and it has built-in seats in the water. Additional daybeds are available on the grassy lawn, as are more lounge chairs. For a hotel that claims luxury status, the spa is a little underwhelming and quite plain. A variety of water treatments, a sauna, and massage and beauty treatments are all available, and the spa has an indoor pool as well. The small fitness center has cardio and one weight-training machine, with a TV for entertainment. Yoga and Pilates classes are offered on the grass by the beach, and bikes are free to use. The kids' club has games and toys for the little ones, and there are several spaces suitable for business and social gatherings of various sizes. The hotel has a courtesy car for limited use and parking comes with a fee. Wi-Fi is free throughout the property.