Hotel GHT Costa Brava & Spa

Although the GHT Costa Brava is similar in style to the many other mid-range hotels in Tossa de Mar, the property renovated some of its common spaces in 2016, adding some extra value to its already reasonable rates. Many common spaces, such as the lobby and the restaurant, still have a somewhat dated, '80s feel, with wood paneling, mirrored surfaces, and basic tiled floors. However, everything is kept spotless and tidy, and the pool area is pleasant and big enough to fit a few dozen loungers. 

The hotel is mostly popular with families and couples, and although it is generally quiet in the low season, the atmosphere in the summer is lively and even a little loud, with music around the pool and a full entertainment program. The GHT Costa Brava is a good option in this price range, with a great spa that is free for all guests, good food, and clean rooms. Sister property GHT Oasis Tossa & Spa has a similar spa and a big pool, but food and location are better here. 

Hotel GHT Costa Brava is located on the corner of two small streets lined with casual restaurants and bars in central Tossa de Mar. The property is just a five-minute walk from the main beach, which is flanked by a medieval castle on the south end and a hilly residential area on the north. There are two other smaller beaches within a 10-minute walk of the hotel. The lovely old town is also just 10 minutes away on foot, and there are plenty of restaurants, shops, and bars within a few blocks of the hotel. The property is about a 40-minute drive from Girona Airport, which is a hub for low-cost airlines; most major airlines use El Prat-Barcelona International Airport, located about 1.5 hours away.

The hotel has 188 rooms, most of which have balconies overlooking either the pool and/or the street. Ground-floor rooms have been renovated and feature simple, contemporary decor that combines white furniture with black accent pillows and bed runners. Backlit headboards and eye-catching photos of sea scenes are stylish touches, but dark terrazzo-style floors give away the hotel’s age. All other rooms have basic wooden furniture, plain gray floor tiles, salmon-colored accent walls, and dated flowery bedspreads. Unfortunately, some guests have complained of thin walls and poor noise insulation in windows. 

Each room is equipped with air-conditioning, seasonal heating, and a flat-screen TV. Wi-Fi is free throughout the property, but there are fees for mini-fridges and safes. Clean bathrooms have small shower/tub combos in most rooms, and walk-in showers with jets in renovated units. Shower gel and shampoo come in wall-mounted containers, and hand soap, combs, and basic hairdryers are also provided. 

The pool is spacious and pleasant, with several dozen loungers, a few umbrellas, and two kiddy sections. There is a bar with a snack and drink menu, as well as pool and-ping pong tables under a roof. The adjacent kids’ club offers indoor and outdoor activities daily, and there is a full entertainment program for all ages in the summer, including fitness classes and evening dance and music performances. The spa is a highlight at the GHT Costa Brava, as it features a big whirlpool with underwater lighting, a sauna, steam room, and massage menu, and is free for all guests. The fitness center is small but modern, and has enough machines for a quick workout. The hotel offers several meal plans, ranging from bed-and-breakfast to full-board. Food is tasty and varied, but the restaurant is in the basement and can get loud at peak times.