Aparthotel Costa Encantada

Unlike many hotels in the area -- which are popular with young revelers -- Costa Encantada draws mostly families with young children, and couples. It’s still a big beach resort, so noise from kids splashing in the pool and from the daily entertainment is to be expected. However, guests are probably less likely to get woken up by the voices of partiers next door than at many other Lloret hotels. The overall vibe here is laid-back and casual, with tons of amenities catering to those looking to spend some relaxing days under the Mediterranean sun. The resort is larger than many nearby properties, with uncluttered grounds dotted with palm trees, picnic tables, sports facilities, and playgrounds for kids. Common areas are typical of big budget-friendly resorts, with generic decor in light brown hues, and gleaming floors.

The hotel is located in a quiet residential neighborhood right outside the city center. Fenals Beach -- somewhat quieter than Lloret’s main beach -- is within easy walking distance, and there are many restaurants, bars, and shops nearby. This part of town is perched on a hillside, which means that the walk back from Lloret and from the beach is uphill. However, there’s a bus stop located a couple of blocks away. Girona-Costa Brava Airport is located a 30-minute drive away, and Barcelona can be reached by car in just over an hour.

The hotel features 281 studios and apartments, all equipped with kitchens, at least one flat-screen TV, and terraces -- some with expansive views. All units are bright and clean, but decor is somewhat dated and generic, with thin bedspreads, varnished wooden furniture, and grey tiling. Studios feature either a queen bed or two twins, and are for two guests maximum. Apartments can sleep up to five people, including two guests in a sofa bed. Amenities are basic yet adequate -- but guests may want to note that there are a couple of pesky fees, including for Wi-Fi, and for use of in-room safes (common in this area!).

Aparthotel Costa Encantada offers several nice amenities, including a small spa complete with a sauna, treatments, and poolside massages; a solid buffet restaurant; a fitness center; a basketball court; a kids’ club; three bars; and a business center. But the property’s highlight is probably the large free-form pool with bridges, a fountain, and an area for kids. There’s another indoor heated pool open seasonally.

A number of services and facilities have an extra charge, including Wi-Fi, and use of the padel court. Also, outdoor parking is free, but there’s a fee for parking in the covered lot.