Hotel Neptuno & Apartments

The Hotel Neptuno sits just off the main shopping strip of Calella and has a functional style that's a mix of modern and tired details. Upon stepping inside, the nautical theme is abundantly clear, as the lobby consists of a jumble of ornaments, furniture, and artwork that all nod to the ocean and the hotel's namesake deity. There's a giant colorful painting of King Neptune and his horses, huge ship's chains, barometers, and a large fish tank with another Neptune residing inside. It's certainly kitschy, though the hotel is a bit dated overall. Spiral stairs and lifts lead away to the rooms and brick arches connect the more formal dining room and sunny outdoor pool terrace. Guests are tourists, mostly couples and groups of friends, as well as families. 

Hotel Neptuno sits on one of Calella's narrow streets in the center of the city. There are several cafes and stores nearby, and it's less than a five-minute walk to shopping and dining on pedestrianized Carrer de l'Eglasia. It's about the same distance to Santa Maria Church and the Town Hall Plaza. Expect a five-minute walk to the beach or Calella Station for connections along the coast. The journey to Barcelona takes about 70 minutes by train. Transit time to the airport is 50 minutes by car, or an 80-minute journey by bus, which leaves from Carrer de Sant Jaume, just a minute from the hotel on foot.

Rooms in the hotel are bright and spacious, with nautical hues and a style that's simple and dated. Configurations include Family Rooms with up to five beds, Double Rooms -- some with balconies -- and a Honeymoon Suite with a jetted tub and large private outdoor terrace. Standard amenities include air-conditioning, flat-screen TVs, and free Wi-Fi, with safes and mini-fridges on request (for a fee). Apartments are also available, and range from studios to two-bedroom units. Decor in these is a bit more colorful and just slightly more modern. All include kitchens with stovetops, refrigerators, microwaves, toasters, coffeemakers, kettles, and dining tables. Apartments also include access to a shared washing machine.

Bathrooms in the hotel rooms are fairly compact, with pale tiling and patterned borders, shower/tub combos, hairdryers, and pump products -- the Honeymoon Suite adds a jetted tub. Apartment bathrooms have a more modern finish, with gray tiling and large shower stalls. They also include hairdryers and pump products. Keep in mind that entertainment can go until somewhat late in the evenings, and certain rooms may pick up noise.

Features here are just enough to keep everyone happy, though keep in mind that the hotel's so-called all-inclusive plans only cover breakfast and dinner, and exclude drinks at night. The Hotel Neptuno has a nicely landscaped outdoor pool in a small terrace with shaded table seating, plus a second adult-only pool with a whirlpool and sunbeds on a secluded terrace. There's a partially outdoor kids' club with climbing frame and play room, plus a game room. The main restaurant serves buffet meals including a variety of themed nights. Otherwise, a cafe offers light meals and drinks. Evening entertainment includes flamenco. Guests have access to free bikes for two hours per day, and there's also a fitness room and sauna. Keep in mind that you'll pay extra to access the sauna. Wi-Fi is free throughout, and there are computers with internet in the lobby. The hotel provides airport transfers and private parking, both for a fee. Small pets are permitted, but come with extra fees as well.